McDonough Counselors and Coaches

Meet our Counselors


Tamara Richards

Tamara Richards, LAPC

As an Associate Professional Counselor, Tamara provides therapy to clients experiencing a variety of difficulties including anxiety, depression, disappointment, trauma, grief, and struggles with daily life stressors. Tamara has experience in providing individual, group, and family therapy. Tamara believes in working collaboratively with her clients to facilitate ultimate growth and change in their lives. She is passionate about helping clients overcome barriers that prevent them from living and being the best they can be. She ensures that clients are provided with a safe environment to facilitate healing, discovery, and renewal through the therapeutic process.

In working with a diverse population of clients, Tamara understands that therapy is not a “one size fits all.” As a result of this, she takes an eclectic approach to therapy which includes various counseling models such as person-centered, solution focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapeutic, to name a few. Tamara has received continuing education training in grief counseling, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. She continues participating in continuing education courses throughout the year as she continues to hone her clinical skills.

Tamara earned her B.A. in Criminal Justice from the University of Georgia. She received her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mercer University in 2013 and first began practicing in 2014. Tamara has over a decade of combined experience in the fields of counseling and education. As a counselor, she has worked with a diverse group of clients including children, adolescents, and adults. Tamara is also a certified educator, which has allowed her the opportunity to educate adolescents ranging from the ages of 10-14 in the public school system.

Tamara is licensed as an Associate Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia #APC004378 and is under the clinical supervision of Shelly Daniel, LCSW (license #CSW004860).

Tamara Specializes in the following:

  • Depression
  • Grief
  • Anxiety
  • Trauma
  • Self-esteem Issues
  • Women's Issues
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Adolescents/Teens
  • Life Transitions
  • Anger Management
  • Career Counseling
  • Workplace Issues
  • Christian Counseling upon request
Farah Southwell
Accepting:
  • Aetna
  • Amerigroup
  • Anthem
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Caresource
  • Cigna
  • Humana
  • Optum
  • United Behavioral Health

Farah Southwell, LPC

** Available for online counseling

Do you experience relationship struggles within your family?  Do you sometimes get really frustrated, worried, lonely, or exhausted about your life or your family? My goal is to help you and/or your family get through this tough journey and gain a functional & happier life. I am here to help improve family relationships and to communicate effectively with your child/adolescent.

Farah Southwell is a Licensed Professional Counselor providing 20+ years of therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and families in clinics, communities, schools & home-based settings. She earned a B.S. in Psychology and M.S. in Mental Health Counseling from Barry University in Miami, Florida. Farah’s therapy style consists of kindness, respect, and empathy. She incorporates cultural sensitivity into her work to accommodate and respect differences in opinions, values, beliefs and attitudes of various cultures. She is fluent in French and Haitian Creole.

Specialties include:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Family Conflict
  • Adjustment Difficulties
  • Grief/loss
  • Cultural Differences
  • Relationship Issues
  • Cultural Differences
  • School/Student Issues

Keira Young, LAPC, NCC

** Available for Online Counseling **

Congratulations! You have officially taken the first step toward becoming a better version of yourself. Through a person-centered approach, we will focus on your needs, your strengths, and your goals. We will work together to find balance and contentment in your life. I have 16 years of experience in mental health. I earned my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am an Associate Professional Counselor as well as a Nationally Certified Counselor.

I am passionate about working with individuals who live with:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Severe and persistent mental illnesses
  • Autism spectrum disorder

I look forward to meeting you!

Koriand'R Comegys
Accepting:
  • Aetna
  • Anthem
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Cigna
  • Humana
  • Optum
  • United Behavioral Health

Koriand’R Comegys, LPC

** Available for online counseling only

Hi! I am a Masters Level therapist. I received a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology in 2012 from Southern Polytechnic State University. I went on to receive a Master's of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Georgia State University in 2014.

During my Graduate program I completed my school internship at DeKalb Regional Youth Detention Center in 2013. After graduating, I gained experience in various settings to include a very prominent mental health hospital.

I have experience working with youth and adults. I have worked with clients whose life choices led them to legal consequences and those who life events led towards a breaking down of family connections. I have worked with people on each end of the economic spectrum. I believe the past is just part of our story, not something to define us.

I am excited to work with you as an individual, couple, or family to evaluate and plan effective treatment that moves you toward a better life.

My experience includes:

  • Substance Abuse
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Stress
  • Trust
  • Anger Management
  • Trauma
  • Adjustment issues
  • LGBT issues
Myngnon Walton

Myngnon Walton, LAPC

Myngnon, a native of Georgia, is an Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC). While she is attaining her LPC, she will be supervised by another licensed clinician. Because of her love for connecting with people, she was inspired to obtain her Bachelors of Science in Human Services and Psychology and Masters of Science in Clinical Psychology from Clayton State University.  Myngnon has built therapeutic relationships with individuals from diverse cultures and ages that range from 5 to 75.

Myngnon believes that we all face challenges. Some of us need assistance in learning coping skills to overcome those challenges of life.

Myngnon uses client-centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in her sessions with individuals and families in areas of:

  • Anxiety
  • Anger Management
  • Bipolar
  • Depression
  • Schizophrenia
  • Trauma/PTSD
Tiwanna Davis
Accepting:
  • Aetna
  • Anthem
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Caresource
  • Cigna
  • Humana
  • Optum
  • United Behavioral Health

Tiwanna Davis, LPC

If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging time or you're ready to move in a new direction in your life, therapy is a great first step. With compassion, empathy and a safe environment, we will work together identifying issues, gaining insights into unhealthy patterns, setting goals for the future and making the changes you desire for a more fulfilling life. My years in the inpatient setting have prepared me to treat individuals suffering from a wide range of psychological difficulties and acuity. I work with adolescents, individuals, couples, and families.

I assist clients through life transitions as they contend with the challenges of adolescence, current and past trauma, assuming the responsibilities of adulthood, adjusting to marriage, parenting, divorce, aging, loss and grief and retirement.  Utilizing an eclectic therapy approach, I strive to provide a safe space for you to explore the painful circumstances you find yourself experiencing. Then, empower you to make the changes that will lead you to a more fulfilling and peaceful life. It will be my pleasure to guide and support you along your journey of creating a happy, healthy you.

Victoria Miller
Accepting:
  • Aetna
  • Anthem
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Cigna
  • Humana
  • Optum
  • Tricare
  • United Behavioral Health

Victoria Miller, LPC

** Available for online counseling

“If you are afraid to take a chance, take one anyway. What you don't do can create the same regrets as the mistakes you make.” ― Iyanla Vanzant

Victoria is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapy doctoral candidate, Army veteran, and owner of Thriveworks McDonough. She holds an MS in Psychology, and a BA in Experimental Psychology. Victoria is experienced in working with children, adolescents, teens, adults, couples, and families. She is passionate about working with individuals and families of unique and diverse backgrounds and experiences such as military families and gender diverse communities, assisting those with questions or exploring their gender and sexual identity. Victoria believes in improving the quality of life and well-being in the people she serves. You will feel genuine care and devotion in Victoria’s use of highly effective therapy approaches. She knows that putting the individual’s needs first, and giving unconditional positive regard is a proven method that you can count on.

Specialties include:

  • Life coaching
  • Grief & loss
  • Life transitions
  • Depression and Mood Disorders
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
  • Anxiety
  • Military/ Veterans
  • Marriage Therapy
  • Couples Therapy
  • Family Therapy
  • LGBTQIA+
  • Trauma

Whether you’re struggling with the stressors of daily life or experiencing difficulty in your relationships, her knowledge and expertise will guide you in exploring healthier ways to cope, gaining valuable insight and understanding about your situation, and living your best authentic life.

Lynesha Brown, INTERN

The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination”.
- Carl Rogers

Lynesha R. Brown, is an intern who holds a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Psychology from Kutztown University. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology specializing in Mental Health Counseling at Capella University.

She has extensive experience working with adults in variety of situations including homelessness, residential facilities and the court system. She focuses on challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, PTSD and communication issues while utilizing strength-based, person-centered approach.

Lynesha ensures that flexibility, meeting the individual/families where they are, and having patience alongside a safe environment, help each individual to feel secure through the process. She also believes that clients have the answers and that with her help they will find a deeper awareness of who they are, who they want to become, and how to propel into a path of healing, growth and actualization. Her specialities include:

• Trauma
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Life Transitions
• PTSD
• Couples Counseling
• Child/Adolescent Counseling

Amy Bologna, LAPC

**Available for online counseling

Amy is a clinically trained masters level counselor from New England who is excited to join the Thriveworks team and experience all Georgia has to offer!  Amy currently holds her Conditional Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC-C) License in the state of Maine and is actively pursuing her Associate Professional Counselor (APC) License in Georgia.  During this time she will be supervised by another fully licensed clinician.

Amy believes strongly in a client centered approach and tailors each treatment plan to fit the goals and needs of the individual.  She embraces the client as the expert on their lives and sees her role as counselor in helping each person become the best version of themselves.  Often this requires thinking outside the box and utilizing a strengths based approach.

Amy is passionate about animal assisted therapies, specifically equine work.  She has been trained in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, focusing on family interventions, under Greg Kersten.  She has spent the last several years working with survivors of sex trafficking and exploitation.  She also has a background in case management and has a strong skill set for those seeking self improvement.

Amy has worked primarily with adults and adolescents and focuses on, but is not at all limited to:

  • PTSD
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Stress Management
  • Time Management
  • Coping Skills
  • Mindfulness
  • Communication Skills

Lauren Smith, INTERN

**Available for online counseling

Hi, I’m Lauren! I’m a counseling intern and am in the process of becoming a LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor). Until I’m fully licensed, I’m being supervised by another licensed clinician.

My education in counseling uses a multicultural perspective and it largely influences my work and unique perspective. I’m also a holistic counselor which means that I address the person as a whole (social, emotional, mental, physical, and sometimes spiritual) rather than only addressing the issue that the client came in for. I chose to become a counseling professional because I enjoy helping and seeing people be their most authentic self. It is a humbling experience to be the one who can help others on their journey of self-discovery and self-love. I believe in the power of the shared human experience and knowing that you’re not alone in your struggles.

My specialties include:

  • Anxiety
  • Coping Skills
  • Trauma
  • Depression
  • Spirituality / Existential
  • Identity Development
  • Substance Abuse
  • Life Transitions
  • Multiculturalism
  • Self-Esteem
  • Mindfulness and Meditation

Nichelle Holtz, LAPC

**Available for online counseling

Nichelle “Nikki” Holtz is an associate licensed counselor (LAPC) working towards full Licensure (LPC) under the direction and supervision of an LPC.

Wow, you have taken the first step towards becoming a better version of yourself. It takes a strong person to embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth. As your counselor I am here to support on your path of healing and self-development. You are the expert of your life and my job is to help you navigate through the parts that may be confusing, scary, and/or overwhelming. I have experience working with individuals who deal with depression and anxiety, but I welcome all individuals who may need a non-judgmental ear, helpful, and objective feedback to help them get through a difficult time in life.

Remember.....
“You are BRAVER than you believe, STRONGER than you seem, and SMARTER than you think "

 

Shelena Clay, LAPC, NCC

**Available for online counseling

Shelena is an Associate Professional Counselor as well as a National Certified Counselor working towards her LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor). While she is attaining her LPC, she will be supervised by another licensed clinician. She is also a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and families. She received her BA in Psychology with a minor in Chemistry and her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She loves working with adolescence and adults to help them reframe negative thinking and behaviors. She utilizes treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Reality Therapy. She believes that given the right tools we all can become the best version of ourselves.

Specialties include:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Trauma / PTSD
  • Self esteem
  • Family Therapy
  • Stress Management
  • Couples Counseling
  • Adolescent Counseling

Adrienne L. Marshall, LAMFT

** Available for online counseling

Adrienne L. Marshall is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a combined total of 5 years of experience working as a therapist with individuals, couples, and families. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Tougaloo College in Jackson, MS and a Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling from Capella University. She also holds a Certification in Business Management Consulting from Capella University. She has a vast array of experiences working with many different people from diverse areas from New York, to Mississippi, and Georgia. As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, Adrienne’s specialties are relationships and communication. Her goal is to help people to restore and rebuild their relationships in their lives and she believes that it starts with the most important relationship that people have with themselves, who they are, and doing the work that is vital to helping people to reach their goals. She is a certified PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator and has also had training in Brief Solutions Focused Therapy as well as EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy). Adrienne can help with issues related to:

  • Marriage/Couples Therapy
  • Family Therapy
  • Stress Management
  • Career Issues/Imposter Syndrome
  • Career/Business Coaching
  • Self Esteem
  • Life Transitions
  • Anger Management
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
Thriveworks Counseling McDonough

People Love Our Providers!

Overall Rating: 5★★★★★ based on 8 5 1 8 reviews. See all reviews
Thriveworks Counseling McDonough

You won’t be disappointed

★★★★★
My husband and I had the pleasure of working with Jaquita for family/couples counseling and she was wonderful! She gave us homework assignments to complete, and we also had some very innovative in session assignments. A straight shooter, but very respectful. She’s just awesome!
Thriveworks Counseling McDonough

Professional and Innovative

★★★★★
I just want to give a review of Ms. Jaquita Shorts. My husband and I met with her for several months between May and September for family/marriage counseling. Ms. Shorts gave us homework assignments and in session assignments that made counseling more comfortable. She was also great at drilling down on issues to discover root issues. I definitely suggest giving her a try!
Thriveworks Counseling McDonough

Counselor

★★★★★
I needed someone to talk to and Keira was a great listener! She was patient and very kind. She didn't rush me I felt very comfortable with her. Very calming environment, clean and smelled great! I have told family members, and they will be going to her next. When I left her office I felt such relief and peace in my heart. I would recommend her to anyone that needs a kind, and open counselor.
Thriveworks Counseling McDonough

Professional Service

★★★★★
Victoria is compassionate, competent, a great listener, and the overall gold standard for professionals in her field. Schedule an appointment with her today! You will not be disappointed
Thriveworks Counseling McDonough

Awesome experience

★★★★★
Victoria is open, honest, and empathetic. She has cheered me on during some of the best times in my life and has helped me through the worst. I highly recommend her services whether you are dealing with daily life stressors or deeper trauma.
Thriveworks Counseling McDonough

The Perfect Coach

★★★★★
If you are searching for an academic life coach, your search is over. Victoria has helped me move confidently in the direction of success in my academic journey. I now have the necessary tools needed to create a fulfilling future.
Thriveworks Counseling McDonough

****EYE OPENER****

★★★★★
Victoria gave me some insight of how I look at some things. It's crazy, that answers are there, just never thought about how deep the root is that started most of the issues I have faced. I wish I could Rate higher than 5.
Thriveworks Counseling McDonough

Us army veteran

★★★★★
As a woman and veteran of the US Army, it is refreshing to connect with someone who is able to relate to and understand my struggles because they have experienced it first hand. With Victoria’s guidance and expertise, I have been able to overcome obstacles and barriers in my life that have allowed for personal and professional growth.
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Thriveworks Counseling

Schedule your first appointment with a Thriveworks Counselor or Life Coach!

  • 1725 Pennsylvania Ave
    McDonough, GA 30253

  • Mon-Fri:7:30AM-9PM
    Saturday:7AM-6PM
    Sunday:8AM-5PM

It’s Time to Start a Relationship with a Thriveworks Counselor

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