Khia Hudgins-Smith
Khia Hudgins-Smith, MS, LPC/MHSP (They/Them) is a licensed professional counselor and mental health provider whose work emphasizes cultural humility, trauma-informed care, and advocacy for underserved and marginalized communities, with a specialization in Religious Trauma Recovery. Their therapeutic approach integrates Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Brainspotting techniques to assist clients in processing trauma, establishing healthier boundaries, recognizing their needs, and fostering self-worth. With about six years of experience in Brainspotting, they continue to expand their expertise in this brain-body approach.
Prior to joining the ETSU Counseling Center, Khia spent five years in private practice at the Journey Center for Healing Arts, supporting adults and adolescents, especially transgender and gender-diverse individuals. They also created support groups to promote affirming care, connection, and community. Currently, as Assistant Director of Outreach and Communications at ETSU, Khia collaborates with campus stakeholders to prioritize mental health, focusing on serving underserved populations through culturally humble and respectful engagement. As an Affiliate Graduate Faculty member, they also support the development of future counselors through teaching, supervision, and mentorship. Khia holds an undergraduate degree in psychology with a minor in criminal justice from ETSU, earned in 2012.
Outside of work, Khia is a 200-hour certified yoga teacher, enjoys spending time with their partner and their two dogs, and pursues hobbies like singing, gardening, lifting weights, crocheting, reading, teaching yoga, and being in nature.