ACCOLADES (re-printed with permission)
Cathy Crawford Parent
"A few months back, there was a mention in the Hollywood Hills Newsletter, of Pam Smith, and that she provided educational therapy. As a parent at wits end for answers, I called the number provided. At the other end of the line we finally found the help my son had needed for so long.
Within a few visits time the changes that were occurring in my son were evident. Pam had identified my son's shortcomings and had given him the tools to overcome them. Most importantly, she gave my son faith in himself and in his ability to learn. I see so much improvement in him. We plan to make my son's work with Pam a priority during the summer months so he can experience a new found success in junior high.
I always maintained that my son was extremely smart and Pam concurs with this estimation. I only wish we had stumbled upon Pam's services earlier. It is my understanding that Pam is willing to avail her services to the teachers at Hollywood Hill, and I strongly applaud this measure. I would also urge you to refer other parents with struggling children to her so they too can get the help they may need.
I am confident that Pam's work with my son will prove pivotal, and consider her assistance a Godsend."
Jan Livingston, Teacher at Hollywood Hill Elementary
"I am writing this in regards to Pamela K. Smith, MA, LMFT, an excellent psychotherapist and educational specialist. She has proven to be a specialist in working with children with Autism, Bipolar, and ADHD, as well as children who are gifted. Pamela works with the whole family, as well as the school by creating a program for the child that builds a bridge between his present level of skill and the level at which he needs to function at home and in the classroom. Her program makes a teacher's job much easier, as children who were previously stressed or struggling in the classroom become cooperative, focused, and creative in the classroom. In short, the child or adolescent becomes happier as he becomes more himself as he becomes a creatively contributing and integral part of his school and family life.
Pamela's program weaves a psycho-social-educational support system which takes into account the child's cognitive development as well as his unique learning style and emotional language. By working so comprehensively, this support system is uniquely effective and purposeful in helping to support the child's continued success (even after treatment ends) in self-esteem, and overall optimal development.
Pamela not only works with children, parents, and teachers as a clinician, but also as a philanthropist. She donates some of her time by giving teacher trainings and parenting workshops, as well as leading support groups for parents, children and adolescents. In addition, Pamela donates funds to schools and clinical programs that do good work in the field of education and psychology.
I have been a teacher for the Northshore School District for 18 years, and in all this time I have never seen a family counselor or educational specialist work as effectively or creatively."
Jane Koh , Grandparent
"Pamela has helped me to help teach my granddaughter to accept and welcome the birth of her new baby brother. She genuinely cares very much about her clients, and always puts them first."
Dr. Peter Koh , O. D.
"Pamela Smith has an amazing insight when it comes to understanding children's development. Her theories and action plans have helped many children develop their potential as healthy members of the community. The excellence of her work combined with her passion and empathy made her one of the leaders in her field."
Linda Coffman, Teacher at Bellevue High School
"I have known Pamela Smith for 5 years. She has been very supportive and helpful to me. Pamela is very understanding of educators. She understands the troubles teachers face in teaching today. She has taught me how to be strong while showing my caring side, as well. With her support, I have found confidence in what I love to do... teach!"
Marie Kennedy, Teacher at Mercer Island High School
"Pam Smith's work is truly client and student centered."
Hollywood Hills Newsletter excerpt Volume 18 No 3, Sept 19, 1997.
"Another thank you to our business partner and parent, Ms. Pam Smith for her donation to our school. This is the third year we have had a partnership with the New Health Institute. The donation will be used to provide enrichment for students in the environmental education, art, and technology. This non-profit organization provides an integrative, interdisciplinary, and preventative approach to learning services. They are one of our communities' resources. Brochures are available in our school office."
Michelle Williams, Principal and Hollywood Hills Elementary
"Pam has been a parent at Hollywood Hill for six years, and has been a business partner for two. She has supported our environmental programs, music, art, and projects for special needs children. I have had conversations with her regarding her work and am impressed with her knowledge of the subject matter. She knows a great deal about the topics of ADD and differences in learning styles."
Rev. Peter D. Snow, MA, Holy Cross Episcopal Church
"Pamela has been helpful and persuasive as she has educated me and others in some of the areas of her professional knowledge and experience. The deep concern and vital interest displayed by her in the care and nurture of children has been central in many of our discussions. I have witnessed her interaction with children. In my view, she has constantly demonstrated patience, tolerance, and care, whilst asking the child to take responsibility for their decisions and actions. I recommend her without reservation."
Dr. Marjorie Kawin Toomim , Ph.D., Licensed Clinical Psychologist
"Pamela Smith, has worked with me on a number of projects focused on clinical research in best treatment practices for children with Autism. She noticed that Autistic children could learn through behaviorally directed, interest inspired play. This play is really brain exercise, which can result in real brain based learning, growth and development. This can, as part of a comprehensive, traditional treatment program, help Autistic children to recover."
Kathleen Downs
"Pamela's work with children and adolescents is truly miraculous."
Keith Wang, Ph.D., M.D.
"Part of the reason I called this evening is to let you know how nice it is to get your newsletter from Overlake Terrace Kingswood Court. It was sad to learn that you are no longer there. While there, your kindness, dedication, organization, and care have been prominent. You made such a difference in spite of the short time they were able to have you as the manager. You have been instrumental in making my mother's move and transition from assisted living to memory care unit smooth and enjoyable. On one hand, it is a big loss for Overlake Terrace. On the other, back to your practice where other people will also benefit from your expertise and care."