Atlanta Counselors

Rita Mathis, LCSW

Rita Mathis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been in the mental health field for over twenty years. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Agnes Scott College in Decatur, Georgia and completed her Master of Social Work Degree at Savannah State University.

Rita Mathis serves all populations. Her multi-dimensional approach ensures that each client receives treatment based on their specific needs. Whether she is working in an individual session, couples therapy, or facilitating a group, her deep compassion and sense of calling create a safe space for healing and wholeness. She is passionate about helping people to learn skills that will positively impact their lives and improve their functioning.

In her more than two decades of experience, Rita has been providing individual therapy, couples therapy, substance abuse treatment, anger management groups and working with victims and perpetrators of domestic violence. She provides services to youth and adults who are struggling with mental issues as a result of trauma in their lives.

Bennecia Gilbert, LPC, CRC, NCC

Philosophy of Care

Bennecia (Nisi) is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and National Certified Counselor. She has 5 years of experience working with individuals with mental and physical disabilities as well as substance abuse concerns. She collaborates with individuals seeking to regain balance and improve their quality of life, whether it is with addiction, work or personal issues. Bennecia obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling from Georgia State University.

Bennecia utilized evidenced based techniques of cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing, rational emotive behavior therapy and client-centered to assist individuals in identifying and obtaining skills that can be used in managing emotional situations.

Bennecia believes in being client-centered, meeting people where they are and establishing a therapeutic relationship so that individuals are eventually able to resolve their issues effectively and independently. Bennecia offers a judgment free environment for individuals to honestly express their needs and be able to focus on solutions that they already hold.

Education

Georgia State University
Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling

Specialties

• Addiction
• Anger management
• Anxiety
• Career transitions
• Depression
• Grief
• Mood disorders
• Teen issues
• Trauma

Iesha Omega Lewis, LMFT

Philosophy of Care

I am a family and marriage counselor licensed in Georgia with over 15 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges. I also helped many people who have experienced sexual trauma and emotional abuse.

My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and solution-focused counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you.

I look forward to working with you!

Education

M.S., Marriage and Family Therapy

Specialties

• Marriage and Family Therapy
• Relationship issues
• Trauma and abuse
• Intimacy-related issues
• Depression

Ingrid Peper, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Ingrid Peper is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Georgia. For the past 12 years, Ingrid has been working with adults, teenagers and children whom are seeking help with anxiety, depression, anger management, ADHD, self-esteem and insufficient coping mechanisms. She is happy to work with all ages, with particular interest in serving the younger populations. Ingrid enjoys helping individuals and families to meet and overcome the obstacles that are causing individual stress or struggles within the family. Ingrid completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Berry College and received her Master’s of Social Work from the University of Georgia.

Ingrid’s approach to therapy is flexible depending on how the client can best reach his or her desired outcomes. She will often utilize play therapy with the younger clients, and CBT, motivational and strength-based therapies with all ages as appropriate.

Ingrid believes that the most important factors in developing good therapeutic relationships are the comfort level, trust and the honest communication between the client and the counselor. Ingrid seeks to establish a safe and welcoming environment for her clients, a place of open collaboration, where challenges can be addressed, overcome, and lives made more enjoyable. She would be honored to assist you in learning more about yourself, your loved ones, and in acquiring new skills and knowledge to get you to the place you want to be.

Education

University of Georgia
Master's in Social Work

Specialties

• Child and Adolescent/Parenting
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Anger Management
• ADHD
• Stress Management
• Self-esteem
• Women’s Issues
• Play Therapy

Lynda Green, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH

Philosophy of Care

Lynda Green is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor and Board-Certified TeleHealth Provider in the state of Georgia who has over 6 years experience partnering with adults, children, couples and families who struggle with a variety of concerns including family and relationship, anxiety and depression, trauma, life transition, stress and anger management as well as parenting and divorce adjustment. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from American Military University and received her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University.  

Lynda utilizes relational, collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, solution focused and trauma informed approaches to therapy always maintaining the creativity, flexibility and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual, couple and family.

Lynda seeks to establish a warm and caring relationship with you in order to assist in building on your strengths and better collaborate with you towards meeting your goals and living the meaningful life you value and desire.

Education

Walden University
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling  

Specialties

• Marriage & Family
• Parenting
• Stress management
• Depression & Anxiety
• Life transitions
• Anger management
• Women’s issues
• Divorce adjustment
• Trauma & Crisis

Mia Bailey, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Mia Bailey is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. She has over 20 years of  experience in the behavioral health field working with children, adolescents, and adults seeking help  with anxiety, depression, parenting issues, relationship issues, anger management, crisis and  stabilization, substance issues, and life transitions issues. She received her Master of Art in Professional  Counseling from Argosy University. 

Mia utilizes cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing, reality based, mindfulness based, solution  focused, and collaborative approaches to therapy to provide positive change, empowerment, and the  most appropriate tools for each specific individual and couple. Mia will act as a coach/motivator for  positive change.  

Mia will strive to provide a warm and safe environment. A positive and safe therapeutic relationship  where you will feel comfortable to collaborate in order to reframe thoughts and beliefs to reach your  goals and hopes. She will meet you where you are and address your needs in order for you to learn and  empower yourself with tools to be successful in living a meaningful life.

Education

Argosy University
Master of Art in Professional Counseling

Specialties

• Couples/Relationship Counseling
• Marriage Counseling
• Family Therapy
• Anxiety Therapy
• Stress Counseling
• ADHD/ADD
• Depression Counseling

Michelle Flood, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Michelle Flood is a Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Georgia who has over 10 years experience in a variety of settings spanning from psychiatric hospitals (for children and adults) conducting in home therapy sessions.  She completed her Bachelor of Philosophy (BPhil) in Interdisciplinary Studies from Miami University of Ohio, her Master of Science (MS) in Art Therapy from Florida State University, and her Master of Business and Administration (MBA) from Savannah State University.  

In addition, Michelle has had extensive experience collaborating closely with and being trained by: behavior analysts, play therapists, recovery-oriented cognitive therapists, music therapists, recreation therapists, and many other disciplines that have all enriched her practice.  With this diverse background, Michelle utilizes an interdisciplinary eclectic approach to therapy, always maintaining the creativity, flexibility and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual.

Michelle seeks to establish a warm and caring relationship with you in order to assist in building on your strengths and better collaborate with you towards meeting your goals and living the meaningful life you value and desire.  Although Michelle is able to counsel anyone regardless of the type of issues they face, listed below are some of her specialties.

Education

Florida State University
Master of Science (MS) in Art Therapy

Specialties

• Art therapy & other expressive arts
• Developmentally disabled
• Schizophrenia & psychotic disorders
• Behavioral issues
• Forensic and psychiatric hospitalization
• Anger management
• Child & adolescents’ issues
• Self-esteem
• Cultural and ethnic issues
• Self-injury & suicide

Timothy Schlairet, Psy.D.

Philosophy of Care

Dr. Timothy Schlairet is a licensed psychologist who treats both adults and couples. Dr. Schlairet also conducts psychological assessments, in order to best address presenting concerns. Dr. Schlairet is motivated to help others reach their goals, both within therapy and in other facets of life.

Dr. Schlairet has experience treating depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, substance misuse, relationship issues, and personality disorders. In addition to issues related to life stress and general mental health, Dr. Schlairet has expertise within the treatment of PTSD and trauma-related symptoms. This area of interest reflects his successful completion of a trauma-focused post-doctoral fellowship. Although his clinical work is generally informed by a cognitive-behavioral approach, Dr. Schlairet also utilizes existential and interpersonal therapies. Dr. Schlairet is a trained provider of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure (PE).

Dr. Schlairet believes seeking therapy is one of the best ways one can invest in themselves and facilitate long-term change. Dr. Schlairet provides individually-tailored treatment plans as he believes he must first understand the client’s perspective within life, before attempting to provide support. Dr. Schlairet’s focus within therapy is first and foremost on the therapeutic relationship, as it functions as the true agent of change.

Education

Nova Southeastern University
Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology

Specialties

• Trauma and PTSD
• Depression
• Anxiety

Aria Garcia, MA, NCC, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Seeking professional help to overcome life’s challenges is a vulnerable experience and Aria is ready to walk with you through these journeys in helping you improve in whatever your goals may be. Through providing a safe space for individuals and couples, Aria’s intention is to remain non-judgemental, empathetic, open-minded, and authentic. 

Aria Garcia is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Georgia and a National Certified Counselor. For the past several years, Aria has been providing individual and group therapy to adults seeking help with substance abuse and co-occurring disorders. She completed her Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from Georgia Southern University and received her Master’s of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from East Tennessee State University. 

Aria has done extensive work helping individuals find a healthy balance and sense of empowerment in their lives using a collaborative and holistic approach believing that “not one therapy fits all”. Aria is well versed in a variety of approaches to therapy from; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness techniques, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, all while stemming from a therapeutic relationship of trust focus. Let me help you thrive through life instead of just surviving! 

Education

East Tennessee State University
Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Specialties

• Substance Abuse Disorders 
• Trauma
• Co-Occurring Disorders
• Anxiety/Stress Management
• Anger Management
• Grief/Loss/Bereavement
• Self-Esteem
• Women’s Issues
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Relationship Issues

Carrie Eagles, LCSW

Carrie has a genuine curiosity about people. She has foundations in healthcare social work having worked in a variety of roles in hospital and primary doctors’ offices settings over the last 15 years. Life can certainly overwhelm us along the way and Carrie believes her nonjudgemental and calm style creates an environment of support during your sessions. Carrie is particularly interested in diverse populations and has most recently worked with the senior citizen population. 

Carrie is a passionate advocate for her clients. She has experience in:

• Depression
• Career Coaching
• Caregiver stress
• Grief/Loss/Bereavement
• Substance Abuse
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Diverse populations including the LGBTQ community
• Post Partum Depression
• Severe Mental Illness

Carrie has received formal training in suicidality as well as end of life issues. She utilizes models such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to treat her patients. She centers this around a strengths-based approach identifying what her clients already excel at. Carrie has also completed the Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.

Carrie is a working parent with her husband and enjoys being outside with her family. She currently holds an LCSW in California and Georgia.

Chelsea Fite, LPC

Chelsea is a licensed professional counselor in both Georgia and Tennessee. She believes we weren’t meant to walk alone and is humbled at the invitation to travel alongside you, being invited into your most fragile areas. She subscribes to the fundamental belief that there is no shame in feeling exactly what you are feeling and feeling it wholly.

Chelsea graduated with a Masters in Counseling from Dallas Theological Seminary after receiving a Bachelors in Elementary Education from St. Petersburg College. She has spent most of her professional career specializing in adolescent and young adult care. She has also completed the Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy. Chelsea has experience working with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, adjustment issues, sexual trauma, and grief. She has led trainings for and partnered with Metro Nashville Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Secret Service in an effort to provide the best quality care available to her community. Chelsea believes in taking a collaborative and holistic approach to the exploration of the season you are in and where it is you desire to be. She knows that there is a light, and working together, we’ll find it eventually.

Erica Hudson, LPC

I am Dr. Erica Hudson I have been providing psychotherapy for over 15 years. I have a B.S. In biology, M.A. in professional counseling and a PhD in health psychology.  I am a licensed professional counselor, and a national certified counselor who specialize in adolescents, adults, couples and families. I work with clients who suffer from anxiety, depression, eating disorders, fertility issues, grief and loss, trauma, and substance abuse.  I take on a cognitive behavior therapy, person-centered, and a humanistic approach in providing therapy to clients by meeting the client where they are at and to ensure the clients needs are being met with the appropriate therapeutic technique.

Hanifa Akpe, NCC, LCPC, LPC

The decision to seek individual therapy can be an uncomfortable one for many.  As a clinician, I deeply respect my clients for the strength and resilience that it takes to seek the help of a professional.  Engagement in therapy is a journey, a process- one that I would like to embark on with you.  

As a client, it is important for you to know that you are not alone.  The therapeutic process is a unique and collaborative one in which you are the expert of your experience.  I will help equip you with tools to enhance your experience, while working toward your goals. I believe this is achieved through a strong client/therapist relationship, evidenced based interventions and appreciation for diversity.  I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy techniques while working from a Person-Centered lens. As a clinician, it is important for me to see each person as an individual, using a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach.  I am also a strong proponent that one size does not fit all. Thus, treatment planning is a joint effort in which you and I work together to develop and cater treatment specific to you and your needs.  

You have taken the first difficult step in searching for a helping professional in hopes of meeting your overall goals.  Together you and I will travel your journey to conquer your challenges toward living your best experience.

Katie Stoltz, LPC

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. I received a Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree in Psychology from The University of West Georgia and have been working as a psychotherapist for more than six years. During that time, I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, adult, couples, and families.

My vision is to assist individuals in harnessing inter-strength to overcome life’s challenges while simultaneously finding peace of mind. My therapeutic approach is a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness and Humanistic Psychology. In using those approaches, I believe self-image and overall emotional wellbeing are vital in working through difficult times. I specialize in assisting clients with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship/family issues, stress management, substance abuse, and much more.

I am committed to develop a strong rapport with each patient and creating a welcoming, accepting and safe environment.

Lawanda Huffman, LPC

Nichola Daley, LPC

Nichola Daley.,LPC, received her B.A. in Psychology from Hampton University and her M.A. in Community Counseling from the Georgia School of Professional Psychology. Nichola developed her skills and work experience mainly at Lakeview Behavioral Health, where she held several roles, one being lead therapist on the adult psychiatric unit. 

Nichola develops excellent therapeutic rapport and working relationships with clients and strives to make positive and effectual differences in the lives of the clients she treats. Nichola is an eclectic therapist, leaning heavily on solution-focused, person-centered, holistic treatment modalities.

Nichola loves witnessing positive growth and change, working collaboratively with clients and helping them discover healing through therapy. Nichola places great value on routine self-care and work-life balance. Nichola prides herself on encouraging her clients to embrace their full potential.

Nichola's specialties:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Childhood trauma
• Mindfulness
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Family therapy

Pia Scott, EdD, LPC, GCDF

Dr. Pia L. Scott, EdD, LPC, GCDF is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia and Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in South Carolina. She is a certified Global Career Development Facilitator helping clients with career transition and change. She earned her Bachelor's of Science in Criminal Justice and Master's of Arts in Counseling from South Carolina State University. She received her EdD in Educational Leadership and Management from Drexel University. 

Working in various environments, she has experience in schools, community health agencies, state governments, and higher education working with a diversity of clients to include veterans, individuals with disabilities, formerly incarcerated, and many more. She brings over 7 years of clinical experience utilizing therapeutic integrative approaches. Her passion is working with couples, adults, and families walking alongside clients in their difficult times and enabling them to feel a sense of hope and inspiration. 

Her theoretical approach to counseling is predominately person-centered therapy creating a warm, caring, non- judgmental environment that fosters inspiration, trust, and motivation. It is her desire to help clients understand and reach their full potential. She is skilled at working with individuals with anxiety, poor self- esteem, anger, caregiver stress, domestic violence, grief/loss, anxiety, career struggles and life transitions. 

She is also skilled at helping clients increase their self-worth, self-esteem, self- love, and develop healthy relationships despite life’s unforeseen obstacles and challenges. 

Stephen Schubert, LPC, LMFT

EMDR Trained

Philosophy of Care

Stephen Schubert is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Georgia who has 10 years experience partnering with adults and couples seeking help with trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, men’s issues and relationship issues. He completed his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from St. Mary’s University and received his Master of Arts in Family Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University.

Stephen utilizes relational, collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, solution focused and emotionally focused approaches to therapy always maintaining the creativity, flexibility and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual and couple.

Stephen seeks to establish a warm and caring relationship with you in order to assist in building on your strengths and better collaborate with you towards meeting your goals and living the meaningful life you value and desire.

Education

Northeastern Illinois University
Master's in Family Counseling

Specialties

• Trauma
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Stress management
• Self esteem
• Life transitions
• Anger management
• Men’s issues
• Relationship issues
• Grief & Loss
• Couples Counseling

**Stephen offers therapy services in English, Spanish and Italian

Susan Mishkin, LCSW

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Georgia with over 30 years of experience working with diverse populations. My extensive background includes working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families in both inpatient settings as well as over 13 years as a therapist in private practice. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Florida and received my Master of Social Work from Florida International University and have been licensed in Georgia since 1988 (CSW #001180).

I recognize how difficult it can be to ask for help and I strive to create a comfortable, relaxed, trusting environment where my clients feel safe and supported as we work together to make the changes in their lives they are seeking. I am passionate about my work and  continue to find it exciting and rewarding to witness the healing, growth and change inherent in the therapeutic journey. To achieve this I utilize an eclectic, integrative approach to therapy adapting elements of several major approaches including family systems theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic, rational, humanistic, person centered and imago therapy specific to every client's unique needs.

Areas of focus include but are not limited to:

• Anxiety
• Behavioral issues
• Blended families
• Codependency
• Couples work 
• Depression
• Divorce
• Grief and loss
• Infertility
• Infidelity
• LGBT
• Life transitions
• Relationship issues
• Stress Management
• Trauma
• Parenting
• Peer relationships
• Sexual abuse

Lisa Shankman, M.S., LMFT

Lisa Shankman is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Georgia. She works with individuals, couples and families who seek change and have a desire to build upon one’s own strengths and resources in tackling life’s challenges. Lisa draws upon her experience of providing therapeutic services in clinic, community, partial hospital and private practice settings to provide highly individualized therapy to meet her clients’ needs. Lisa completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Florida and received her Master of Science in Marital and Family Therapy from Northwestern University’s Family Institute. She maintains a special interest in working with adolescents, young adults and couples, and she utilizes a practical, supportive and integrative approach to therapy.

Lisa tends to draw upon aspects of family systems, cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic theories. She has considerable experience working with those struggling with communication, life transition, self- esteem and family of origin issues.

Lisa recognizes that life throws a lot of curve balls our way. As a therapist, her goal is to help you navigate through life’s challenges with more confidence and embrace the you that you want to be!

Kinsey Thomas, LPC

Have you been having frequent struggles with balancing your life, feeling tired and overwhelmed, or finding the motivation to get things done? I believe we all go through times like this but sometimes these periods can be harder to deal with and cope, especially for long periods of time. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have been helping and supporting individuals through some of their most difficult times in life. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating adults in both individual and family with numerous concerns such as, but not limited to, depression, grief, anger, stress management, chronic pain, domestic violence, sexual assault, and traumatic brain injury.

My goal is to help others find the beauty and maintain peace in their lives during and after the pressures of life. The type of therapy I practice to help achieve this, Client Centered Therapy, puts you behind the wheel leading the way with me next to you nurturing and supporting you along the journey. The benefit to this is your greater ability to begin trusting yourself in the process of growing and healing. I also like to include other approaches in therapy that teach us different ways of thinking, behaving, and being in the present moment. These approaches (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Mindfulness) are found to be helpful in managing stress, controlling thoughts, and finding an acceptance in things you may not be able to change.

Kinsey is a mason jar loving, southerner at heart, who loves being with her family and friends, traveling, eating, learning new things, and cherishing her alone time when she’s not entertaining her busy toddler. She has earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and a Master of Arts Degree in Community Counseling from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and Atlanta Argosy University, respectively. She is licensed by the State of Georgia as a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC #007736, and a Certified Professional Counseling Supervisor, CPCS #1272.

Dean Havlik, LCSW, MBA

Dean Havlik is a licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, adjustment, trauma, stress, and major life transitional issues as well as couples experiencing relationship challenges. Dean has experience working in a variety of mental health treatment settings with adults, adolescents, couples, and families. He received a Bachelor Degree from the University of Northern Iowa and a Masters Degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in the field of Social Work.

In addition to this Dean is a Certified Executive Coach specializing in assisting other in achieving their professional goals, increasing personal performance, and managing through stress and change. He received certifications from the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, Scotland and the Life Coach Institute of Orange County. He earned an Executive Masters in Business Administration from the Jack Welch Management Institute.

Dean takes an active person-centered and solution focused approach to both therapy and coaching to make room for personal exploration, questions, self-realization, and collaborative problem solving. He has lived in the metro Atlanta area for the past 20 years and is a practicing musician/songwriter in his spare time.

Dr. Michael Marti

Dr. Michael Marti strives to help clients gain awareness of what is keeping them stuck and to help them develop effective, healthier, coping strategies for gaining control in their lives. Reaching out for help and making that initial phone call can be difficult for some people, but feeling stuck in your life, a job or in a relationship that is not working can be even more challenging. Michael has expertise in treating clients who have experienced trauma/PTSD, depression and anxiety disorders. In addition, he provides services for people that struggle with chronic pain, marital difficulties, spirituality, unresolved grief/loss and problems managing anger. If you are struggling with any of these problems, he encourages you to call and make an appointment. His approach to therapy is a collaborative one. Working together, you will focus on identifying your issues, clarifying your goals, reducing symptoms and achieving personal growth. If you are tired of feeling depressed, anxious, or just feeling lost, then call for an initial consult and start focusing on getting better. (Saturday appointments are also available.)