About Dr. Kurt Smith

A different kind of counselor for men, and the women who love them.

I’m Dr. Kurt, and I’m not your typical counselor. In fact, I never intended to become a counselor.

My path to counseling was unexpected. It’s actually my second career, or more accurately, my third or fourth (my life hasn't exactly gone the way I planned it).

I'd say I'm more naturally inclined toward working in construction or engineering than in counseling.

But life throws you curve balls, and through my own personal experiences, I've learned how necessary and transformative counseling can be – when done right.

Fast forward and I now have multiple psychology and counseling degrees, licenses, and certifications (More about Dr. Kurt Smith and Guy Stuff Counseling).

But those aren't what make me an effective counselor.

I’m an effective counselor because, probably like you, I’ve felt stuck, lost, and, yes, a bit hopeless when it came to finding a path forward in the middle of the ugly situations life gives us.

Struggled to communicate with your wife?
Fired from a job?
Said things in anger that you can never take back?
Wrestled with depression?
Yep, I've been there.

I tried counseling and quickly realized that I had no patience for over-analyzing and therapy jargon. I just wanted – no, needed – straightforward advice that could help me sort things out and move forward.

That’s why I created Guy Stuff.

Men in particular need an action oriented, problem solving approach, and that’s what I do. Working with men in the way they need means I’m also able to work effectively with the women that love them too.

Whether it’s,

~ Better communication ~

~ Fixing a relationship ~

~ Managing anger ~

~ Overcoming depression ~

~ Breaking addictions to porn, alcohol, pot, etc. ~

I’ve been through it, and I know what works.

Why My Approach Works

Most men struggle with traditional therapy because it’s not designed for them.

I know firsthand that guys don’t always feel comfortable opening up, especially in a way that feels unnatural. Guy Stuff Counseling is a place where men can get the support they need in a way that actually works for them.

A No-Nonsense, Practical Approach

I focus on results, not just talking about feelings.

Real-Life Experience

I’ve been where you are and know how to help you move forward.

Strategies That Work for Men

My techniques are designed for how men think, act, and problem-solve.

Extensive Training & Qualifications

Backed by multiple degrees, licenses, and certifications in psychology and counseling.

Still unsure if you're at the right place?

No problem. Start slow – read an article, take a quiz, or dig a little deeper into our specialties. A number of on-demand instuction manuals are available whenever you're ready.

About Dr. Kurt Smith and His Challenges

At Guy Stuff Counseling, you’ll be working with someone who understands what it’s like to be in your shoes. My counseling approach is rooted in real-life experience, not just psychology textbooks. Below is more about Dr. Kurt Smith and his own struggles.

Struggling with Communication?

I’ve been there. There were times in my marriage when no matter what I said, my wife and I just weren’t on the same page. Through experience and training, I’ve learned how to communicate in a way that actually works, and I can teach you how to do it too.

➡ Need tips? Check out our articles on Communication Skills

Anger Getting the Best of You?

Anger used to control me, coming out of nowhere and hitting with the force of a tidal wave. I had to learn how to manage it, and now I help other men do the same. If anger is causing problems in your relationships, I can show you techniques that work so you can take control.

➡ Get help now: Explore our articles on Anger Management

Feeling Hopeless?

I know what it’s like to feel lost and alone, thinking things will never change. But I also know how to get out of that place. If you’re feeling stuck, I can help you find the way forward.

➡ Read our expert advice on Depression Help

Credentials & Experience

Below is the education and training I have to back up my real-life experience. Here’s what qualifies me to help you:

Education & Certifications:

Psy.D., Doctor of Psychology – Ryokan College
M.A., Counseling Psychology – University of San Francisco
B.A., Psychology – California State University, Sacramento
Graduate Certificate, Financial Counseling – Iowa State University

Licenses & Accreditations:

Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist – California License LMFT44097
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor – California License LPCC545
Accredited Financial Counselor – Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education

Testimonials

"Dr. Kurt, I can't tell you how much you mean to me and what I have learned from you, even though I didn't put every skill you gave me into practice. I regret that, and wish I could go back to when we first met and really listened to you and acted on the skills that you tried to instill in me."

- Ben, Arizona, USA

How We Can Help

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Whether it’s relationship struggles, communication issues, anger, addictions, or feeling stuck, I’m here to help.

ON-DEMAND

Practical, expert-led resources available anytime, anywhere, empowering men and women with the tools and insights they need to grow and improve at their own pace.

GROUP SESSIONS

Encourage growth and connection with supportive group coaching designed to help people learn from shared experiences and discover new ways to navigate life’s challenges.

1-ON-1

Personalized support for men, women, and couples, offering a safe and confidential space to work through relationship problems, stress, and personal challenges with expert guidance.

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