Marina Smerling

I work with women struggling with stress, anxiety, and relationship conflict, and who long to feel more calm, confident, and well in their relationships. My passion is supporting these women in welcoming and embracing their full humanity, even when they're doubting themselves, and even when they're over the top stressed out and can’t find their way.

I have taught Nonviolent Communication (NVC) and facilitated women’s groups for many years, supporting women in standing strong in their truth, needs, and boundaries, while maintaining their capacity to stay connected with and empathic toward others.

In addition to my marriage and family therapy training, I am a Certified Nonviolent Communication (NVC)Trainer, have completed a two-year training in the Hakomi Method of mindfulness-based and somatic therapy, and have taken the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 1 Training. My practice is thus a blend of IFS, Hakomi, NVC, embodied spiritual practice, and — most importantly — a commitment to supporting my clients in choosing love now without waiting for perfection.

As a licensed therapist, I bring everything I’ve learned in this life, personally and professionally, to caring for and supporting my clients well.

Informally, my style is warm, relational, and radically accepting. You and all your parts are welcome here, as you are. My role is one of an ally, guiding you toward your own wisdom, your own embodied knowing, and the wholeness that already exists inside of you, and that just needs help coming out of hiding.

I live here in Gainesville, Florida with my partner, 13 year-old step-son, and 3 year-old daughter. I love swimming in our springs, floating on our rivers, and all kinds of dance.