Ready and Able to Help

Tressa Stiles, Psy.D.

Philosophy of Care

Dr. Tressa Stiles is a licensed psychologist in the state of Georgia. She is a generalist practitioner with specialty training treating severe and persistent mental illness. She obtains great satisfaction from helping clients overcome depression, anxiety, job stress, and intimate partner conflict. Having trained directly under renowned psychologist Dr. Lenore Walker, who coined the term Battered Women Syndrome, Dr. Stiles has developed a deep passion for treating survivors of Intimate Partner Violence. She has assisted with research, delivered trainings, and facilitated groups in this sensitive area of practice.

To assist her clients in thriving, Dr. Stiles pulls from various treatment modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Her solution-focused approach has helped clients gain control of their emotions and their lives. Her clients view her as competent, nonjudgmental, & real.

If you are an individual or couple seeking guidance on improving your quality of life, Dr. Stiles looks forward to joining you on this journey. Her objective is to aid in identifying and changing maladaptive patterns, teaching strategies to regulate emotions and improve communication, in addition to helping you set and achieve your goals.

Education

Nova Southeastern University
Doctor of Psychology

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Life Transitions
• Young Adult Issues
• Assertiveness Training/Boundary Setting
• Intimate Partner Violence
• Trauma
• Couples Counseling
• Stress Management
• Mindfulness

Anna Wohleking, LPC, CPCS

Philosophy of Care

Anna Wohleking is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Supervisor in the state of Georgia who has 8 years experience partnering with children ages 4-18 and their families seeking help with ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD, Foster Care, Depression, Anger management, Mood Disorders, and Grief/Loss/Bereavement. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from New Mexico State University and received her Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University.
Anna utilizes person-centered, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Play Therapy like techniques, as well as relational and strength based approaches to therapy, always maintaining the creativity, flexibility and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual and their family.
Anna 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
Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling

Specialties

• Children and Adolescents ages 4-18.
• Family therapy
• Anxiety
• Depression
• ADD/ADHD
• Mood disorders
• PTSD
• Trauma and abuse
• Mindfulness
• Adoption/Foster Care

Lei-Ann Bridges, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Lei-Ann Bridges is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia who has eight years of experience partnering with adults and couples seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues and spiritual/religious issues. She completed she completed her Master of Arts in Community Counseling from Argosy University in Atlanta, GA.

Lei-Ann is motivated to support clients in healing because of a firm belief each person has what it takes and deserves to live joyful, fulfilling lives. Lei-Ann believes answers are within each of us and with the right support we can access all we need to achieve our goals. Lei-Ann describes herself as a compassionate, spiritually grounded person who recognizes the innate ability to heal emotional and mental wounds. While healing requires dedication and hard work, Lei-Ann believes healing can have exciting and fun moments.

Lei-Ann is trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other cognitive therapies, Mindfulness, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Clinical Hypnotherapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Dream Analysis.

Education

Argosy University
Master of Arts in Community Counseling

Specialties

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Stress management
• Trauma
• Self esteem
• Life transitions
• Anger management
• Women’s issues
• Relationship issues
• Spiritual and Religious issues
• Grief & Loss

Marleigh Whiteman, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Marleigh Whiteman is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. She has years of experience working with a variety of populations of all ages in different levels and types of care including inpatient, outpatient, residential, and school settings. She helps guide and motivate clients as they seek help with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, and other stressors many face in our fast paced world. She completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Auburn University and her Master of Science degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Georgia State University.

Marleigh meets clients where they are, utilizing an eclectic approach, including cognitive behavioral, person centered, and mindfulness techniques. Her empathy and compassion help clients feel comfortable, safe, and unjudged. Building a relationship of trust and rapport with each client is vital to the counseling process. Marleigh is quick to put one at ease.

Most recently working as a school counselor, Marleigh is aware of current issues and struggles facing children, adolescents, adults, and families today. She particularly enjoys working with children, adolescents and young adults, as they struggle to build self confidence, discover their true identity, and seek peer acceptance. As a member of ILADS, she is also passionate about working with those facing chronic illness. Marleigh is a firm believer that we all deserve peace and happiness along life’s journey, despite one's struggles.

ILADS member (International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society)
CS-TMH (Certificate of Specialization in Telemental Health)

Education

Georgia State University
Master of Science degree in Rehabilitation Counseling

Specialities

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Stress Management
• Grief & Loss
• Relationship issues
• Children and Adolescents
• School Related Issues
• LGBTQ Related Issues
• Personality Disorders

Tamara Williams-Newton, LPC

Life can be challenging.  It helps to talk to someone. I can provide a listening ear free from judgment.  Everyone, at some point in their lives, will experience sadness, depression, anxiety, and stress.  The key is not to allow these feelings to overwhelm and consume our lives.

I can assist with helping you understand and cope with these feelings, so that you can  navigate life’s obstacles and be the best version of yourself.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I earned my BS in Human Services at Shorter University, Rome, GA. My MA in Counseling at Argosy University, Atlanta, GA.

I am a native New Yorker, and fluent in Spanish.  During my career, I have worked with different demographics to include children and youth who are dealing with emotions and behavior concerns. Adults and Seniors.

My counseling approach is Person-Centered because everyone has different situations they need to work through.  I believe that everyone deserves respect and dignity. I work to assist in reconnecting and reclaiming any loss of dignity through the realization of your strengths.

I became a counselor because I enjoy helping individuals make positive growth and change during the therapeutic process.  I want everyone to know that they are not alone in how they feel, so let us work together.

Kimberly Ayertey, LCSW

Philosophy of Care

Kimberly Ayertey is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20+ years of experience in the behavioral health and addiction recovery field. Kimberly earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Talladega College and her Master of Social Work from University of Alabama. She completed her social work field practicum at National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center. There she developed her passion for helping patients participating in clinical trials deal with the emotional aspects of their complex medical challenges. She is an active member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Georgia Chapter and the Society for Social Work Leadership in Healthcare.

Kimberly has provided individual, couples, family and group therapy in an array of clinical settings in both private and public sectors such as psychiatric hospitals, out-patient clinics, corrections, residential treatment, school-based and in-home. The varied clinical experiences has provided her with the ability to “meet clients where they are” and support them through their journey of recovery and wellness.

Kimberly works primarily with adolescents and adults incorporating different treatment modalities to meet the needs of the client. Each session is tailored to address the presenting issue utilizing one or more of the following approaches: cognitive behavioral, strength-based, solution-focused and person-centered. Her focus is on helping individuals, couples, and families build on their strengths, while assisting them in learning skills to improve the areas they want to focus on.

Specialties

• Anxiety/Trauma/Stress Related
• Addiction
• Anger Management
• Coping and Communication Skills
• Family Conflict
• Life Transitions/Adjustment Challenges
• Relationship Conflict/Stress

Primary Treatment Approaches:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Motivational Interviewing
• Mindfulness/Relaxation Techniques
• Solution-Focused Therapy
• Person-Centered
• Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy

Velencia McDowell, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Velencia McDowell is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia with over 22 years of diverse experience in working with children, adolescents, teens, and adults in varies settings which includes, but not limited to: emergency psychological assessments, facilitating one-on-one and group sessions with severely emotionally disturbed middle grade and high school students, coordinating treatment within therapeutic foster care agency and an After-School Day Treatment Program.   Also promoting In-home family and group therapy.  She completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Science in Community-Agency Counseling from Jacksonville State University in Alabama. 

Velencia's therapeutic modality is one in which there is an “involved process” between the therapist and the client that evolves trust where a desired outcome is developed with the usage of cognitive behavioral, solution focused brief therapy, mindfulness and trauma informed focused approaches that seek to empower with the notion that challenges are an opportunity to find solutions.

Velencia seeks to establish a therapeutic relationship that teaches a language of hope with an “I Can” and “I Will” sense of becoming.  Her heartfelt philosophy as a therapist is embedded in the quote by the late president, Theodore Roosevelt,  that states, “People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care.”

Education

Jacksonville State University
Master's in Community-Agency Counseling

Specialties

• Anxiety
• Depression 
• Adoption
• Stress Management
• Trauma 
• Anger Management
• Grief and Bereavement 
• Family Matters 
• Self Confidence
• Life Goals and Empowerment

Karyn Kochan, LPC

Philosophy of Care

Karyn Kochan is a Licensed Professional Counselor & Registered Mediator in the state of Georgia. Karyn has 20+ years of experience empowering adults and couples with anxiety, anger, depression, and traumas to become successful in every area of their lives. Karyn has earned her Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science, & her Masters of Science in Counseling from National Louis University in Chicago, IL. She has done post graduate studies in Organizational Psychology from Walden University in Minneapolis, MN. 

Karyn is a Certified Anger Management Professional, & a Certified Life Coach. She uses an eclectic & collaborative approach in her counseling practice. Karyn’s experience includes eight years of mental health counseling in two psychiatric hospitals. In Illinois, Karyn was a Program Coordinator in a Dual Diagnosis inpatient unit. In Georgia, she was an inpatient & outpatient Psychiatric Program counselor and facilitator. 

Karyn seeks to establish a warm relationship with you utilizing a Strength’s based perspective, Cognitive Behavioral & Solution Focused therapy. She uses a creative approach by including meditation, visualization, exercise therapy, and the arts to bring meaning and value to your life. 

Education

National Louis University
Master's in Counseling

Specialties

• Anger Management
• Anxiety
• Stress
• Christian and Spirituality
• Depression
• Employment and Career
• Grief and Loss
• Life Coaching and Life Transitions
• Meditation and Mediation
• Self Esteem
• Trauma (PTSD)

Teressa Mathurin, MA, LPC

Teressa H. Mathurin, MA, LPC is a native of Atlanta, GA. She has over 14 years’ experience in the social services arena. She earned a BA in Psychology from Albany State University and MA in Professional Counseling from Argosy University. 

As a therapist, she engages and educates her clients on how their thoughts and feelings truly have correlation with the actions they exhibit and symptoms they experience. Teressa believes, if a person can learn/create healthy coping mechanisms such as, thought stopping techniques, positive self-talk, meditation, self-regulation, and mindfulness living, then change can certainly occur. She inspires and informs her clients in recognizing the power force in every individual already resides within.  She is intentional on meeting her clients where they are to provide a safe, non-judgmental and confidential space to express themselves.

Some of Teressa’s experience includes, spirituality, LGBTQIA, depression, grief, trauma, anxiety, self-esteem concerns, anger management, stress management and communication/relationship difficulties, just to name a few. Teressa supports her clients in uncovering their hidden abilities. As well as, walking alongside them in overcoming obstacles and traumas.  All, while using an eclectic collection of counseling modalities. Teressa offers inspiration, encouragement, compassion, kindness and validation as the keys to unlock the hidden power that each of her clients possesses. She is honored to be chosen to share the sacred space of vulnerability with her clients. Watching her clients transform towards positive progression and manifestation is magical!

Teressa’s motto is “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” -Mahatma Ghandi

Teressa's specialties include:

• Spirituality
• LGBTQIA
• Depression
• Grief
• Trauma
• Anxiety
• Self-esteem concerns
• Anger management
• Stress management
• Communication/relationship difficulties

Lakia Chappelle, LPC

Lakia Chappelle is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Case Manager. Lakia enjoys works with adults, children, adolescents, families, and couples.  She utilizes intentional interventions based in cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, reality therapy, play therapy, and mindfulness to help individuals and families reach optimal wellness.    Her treatment specialties focus on relationship issues, trauma, parent child relationships, anger management, stress reduction, anxiety, depression and adjustment related issues. Her approach is warm, culturally sensitive, and specific to each individual needs.

Ms. Lakia has over 8 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families.  She believes that healthy communication and being your true authentic self is the key to working towards resolving internal and external conflict.  Lakia enjoys being a therapist and assisting others with achieving their goals and living a happy and stress free life. Schedule an appointment with Lakia today!

Lakia's specialties include:

• Relationship issues
• Trauma
• Parent/child relationships
• Anger management
• Stress reduction
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Adjustment related issues

Naomi Haynes, LCSW

Naomi is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience providing care and support to youth, young adults and families in residential community settings within non-profit organizations. She received her Bachelors in Sociology from Winston-Salem State University and her Masters in Social Work from Clark Atlanta University. Her work has allowed her to help others through crisis management, traumatic experiences, and life changes. Naomi’s clinical work has primarily involved working with individuals and families impacted by trauma and coping with mental health diagnoses, co-occurring disorders, and chronic health conditions. 

Naomi believes in being present with a person and incorporating holistic approaches to helping individuals achieve their goals. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing as her primary approaches to address clinical issues. She understands that providing a space for someone to express their thoughts and feelings free of judgement may be the key to unlocking their growth and success.

Naomi's specialties include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Mood Disorders
• Adjustment related issues
• Communication Issues
• Self-esteem Issues

Beverly Brown, LPC

Dr. Beverly Watts Brown is a Licensed Professional Counselor serving clients in Fayette County and the metro Atlanta area. She has had over 18 years of experience counseling in the public school sector and in the last two years transitioned to the private sector where she enjoys working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults and families. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Georgia, a Master’s degree in counseling from Columbus State University and a Doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University - Sarasota.

Beverly is a person-centered counselor and lets the needs of the clients direct the therapy and the modalities used. She offers solution-focused, goal-oriented, short-term therapy with long-term results.
Through her use of Cognitive-Behavioral techniques, she helps clients change the way they think and respond, thus changing the way they feel.

Beverly has experience using play therapy with child clients and working with adolescents struggling with trauma, anger, low self-esteem and school related issues. She also has experience helping families build better relationships especially parent/child relationships.

Beverly is currently accepting new clients in Peachtree City and for your convenience, she offers evening and weekend appointments. Come sit with her in a nonjudgmental environment to work through the problems you are facing. Call or email for an appointment today.

Dr. Brown's specialties include:

• Children
• Teens/Adolescents
• School Related Issues
• Parent/Child Relationships
• ADHD
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Grief

Stephanie Mezei, LCSW

Stephanie Mezei is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has worked as a therapist in the mental health field for 15 years. She completed her undergraduate training at Columbia College and graduate training at The University of Georgia-Athens; with a focus on Clinical, Family Centered Social Work Practice. Stephanie has extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), leading to experience in DBT program development. She has also completed the Level One Clinical Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.

Stephanie primarily works with adults; helping them navigate and cope with life's stressors and challenges. Her specialties include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, women’s issues, grief/loss, and ADHD. With her extensive training and experience with DBT, she is also able to and enjoys helping those with mood swings, intense emotions, impulsivity, unstable relationships, or borderline personality disorder. Other therapies she provides include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Strengths Based, Gottman Method, and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT),

Stephanie has a passion for helping others reach their goals. Central to her work is providing a safe and empathetic environment that promotes acceptance and change. She looks forward to working with you as you take your next steps towards wellness and improved mental health.

Stephanie’s Specialties:

• Bipolar Disorder
• Borderline Personality Disorder
• Intense Emotions
• Mood Swings
• Impulsivity
• Depression
• Anxiety
• ADHD

Kristole Pierce, LPC

Kristole Pierce is a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Atlanta, GA who specializes in Trauma and Addiction Therapy. Kristole is a Nationally Certified Counselor, and a member of the American Counselors Association. She has a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology, a Masters of Arts in Community Counseling, and a Specialist in Marriage and Family Counseling.

Kristole has spent most of her adult life working in the Human Services Field which has resulted in 12 years of experience providing quality care for individuals, couples, and families. During her tenure in the Mental Health field Kristole has an array of experience spanning from Disaster Relief Work, Crisis Management, Community Intensive Family Intervention Services, and the being Director of Programs for many years in the Non-Profit sector. Her educational and professional background in both the mind and the field give her a unique effective approach to counseling. She works to provide clients with a blend of tailored treatment, and practical application that can be integrated into their daily lives.

Her approach provides a safe space for individuals to arrive at their own conclusions about “living their best life” while she walks alongside them as a guide to enlightenment and understanding of their own traumas, depression, anxiety, and relational patterns.

She provides her clients with trauma informed care while eliciting techniques from TF-CBT, Reality Therapy, and the Strength Based Perspective.

Specialties:

• Anxiety
• ADHD
• Depression
• Substance abuse
• Grief and Loss
• Anger Management
• Family Therapy
• Couples Counseling
• LGBTQIA issues
• STAR Behavioral Health Provider
• Civilian Professional/Military Sensitive