Couples Counseling Therapists in Athens, GA
I (Raessha Stanley, LCSW, LISW CP) earned my Master's Degree in Social Work at Savannah State University in 2009 and embarked on my career as a professional social worker. I have 10+ years of experience working in the mental and behavioral health field. I have worked as a therapist, school social worker, medical social worker, hospice social worker, and community support interventionist. I provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, families, and groups. My mission as a clinical social worker is to assist individuals in empowering themselves to improve their outlook on life through mindful manifestation.
I (Raessha Stanley, LCSW, LISW CP) earned my Master's Degree in Social Work at Savannah State University in 2009 and embarked on my career as a professional social worker. I have 10+ years of experience working in the mental and behavioral health field. I have worked as a therapist, school social worker, medical social worker, hospice social worker, and community support interventionist. I provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, families, and groups. My mission as a clinical social worker is to assist individuals in empowering themselves to improve their outlook on life through mindful manifestation.
Or maybe your relationship is hanging on by a thread after too many fights, too much silence, or a betrayal that’s left you both reeling.
My approach is grounded, compassionate, and real. Therapy with me feels like having a conversation with someone who gets it—someone who knows how to guide you through the hard stuff and help you make meaningful changes.
We'll use approaches like EMDR, Gottman Method, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help you figure out what healing looks like for you.
Or maybe your relationship is hanging on by a thread after too many fights, too much silence, or a betrayal that’s left you both reeling.
My approach is grounded, compassionate, and real. Therapy with me feels like having a conversation with someone who gets it—someone who knows how to guide you through the hard stuff and help you make meaningful changes.
We'll use approaches like EMDR, Gottman Method, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help you figure out what healing looks like for you.
I specialize in assisting individuals and couples experiencing life transitions (grief, role changes, relational changes, chronic illness, etc.).
Welcome—I’m so glad you’re here. Taking that first step to begin or return to therapy can feel overwhelming, and I commend you for being here today. My role is to support you and walk alongside you as you navigate this journey. Life often feels like a rollercoaster, full of unexpected twists and turns, and at times we can feel stuck without knowing how to move forward. As a clinician, my goal is to meet you exactly where you are, regardless of where you are in your journey through collaboration in the therapeutic process. I am now available to take referrals for in person or virtual therapy in Georgia!
I specialize in assisting individuals and couples experiencing life transitions (grief, role changes, relational changes, chronic illness, etc.).
Welcome—I’m so glad you’re here. Taking that first step to begin or return to therapy can feel overwhelming, and I commend you for being here today. My role is to support you and walk alongside you as you navigate this journey. Life often feels like a rollercoaster, full of unexpected twists and turns, and at times we can feel stuck without knowing how to move forward. As a clinician, my goal is to meet you exactly where you are, regardless of where you are in your journey through collaboration in the therapeutic process. I am now available to take referrals for in person or virtual therapy in Georgia!
I've offerred listening, provided therapy, or consulted for almost 20 years. I've worked across the develpmental spectrum and have addressed everyday adjustment issues, mood/anxiety disorders, transitional challenges (i.e. career/job change, relocation), relational issues to name a few. Using a culturally informed approach I've had the priviledge of working with many marginalized communities, including people of color, people experiencing poverty & veterans to name a few. When a person is open and ready for change, great things can happen!
I've offerred listening, provided therapy, or consulted for almost 20 years. I've worked across the develpmental spectrum and have addressed everyday adjustment issues, mood/anxiety disorders, transitional challenges (i.e. career/job change, relocation), relational issues to name a few. Using a culturally informed approach I've had the priviledge of working with many marginalized communities, including people of color, people experiencing poverty & veterans to name a few. When a person is open and ready for change, great things can happen!
I believe in creating a space that is supportive and non judgmental while allowing the development of a trusting and connected therapeutic relationship.
I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of GA for over 20 years. I have practiced in many different settings to include Residential Treatment, Community Mental Health, and Private Practice.
I have worked with people of all ages who are dealing with Existential issues, Grief, Death and Dying, Spiritual exploration and growth
I believe in creating a space that is supportive and non judgmental while allowing the development of a trusting and connected therapeutic relationship.
I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of GA for over 20 years. I have practiced in many different settings to include Residential Treatment, Community Mental Health, and Private Practice.
I have worked with people of all ages who are dealing with Existential issues, Grief, Death and Dying, Spiritual exploration and growth
Trained in trauma models and other mental health issues involving: anxiety, depression, OCD, Bipolar I and II disorder, trauma, professional stress management, LGBTQIA+, and couples' issues.
My therapy practice focuses on the balance and confluence of different aspects of identity and external environment. Through integrations of cognitive behavioral models, DBT, and narrative therapies, we work together to achieve this balance. Some of my most deeply held value systems center around social justice and equity, and I bring this into each session with my clients. I also focus on creating a person-centered and holistic therapy space in which clients may pursue their own reflection and introspection.
Trained in trauma models and other mental health issues involving: anxiety, depression, OCD, Bipolar I and II disorder, trauma, professional stress management, LGBTQIA+, and couples' issues.
My therapy practice focuses on the balance and confluence of different aspects of identity and external environment. Through integrations of cognitive behavioral models, DBT, and narrative therapies, we work together to achieve this balance. Some of my most deeply held value systems center around social justice and equity, and I bring this into each session with my clients. I also focus on creating a person-centered and holistic therapy space in which clients may pursue their own reflection and introspection.
I specialize in working with individuals navigating anxiety, difficulties in relationships or family dynamics, and life transitions.
I use an integrative approach that draws from Dialectical Behavior and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. That means learning practical skills to manage emotions and build a life that is aligned with what matters most to you. I also incorporate attachment-based therapy, which explores how past experiences may be shaping your current patterns and emotions.
I specialize in working with individuals navigating anxiety, difficulties in relationships or family dynamics, and life transitions.
I use an integrative approach that draws from Dialectical Behavior and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. That means learning practical skills to manage emotions and build a life that is aligned with what matters most to you. I also incorporate attachment-based therapy, which explores how past experiences may be shaping your current patterns and emotions.
Many of my clients present with concerns related to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stressful life transitions and circumstances, perinatal mental health concerns, or they report feeling a little “off” and are seeking help to feel more like themselves again.
My goal is shalom, the Hebrew word for peace, wholeness and universal flourishing. Operating from a strengths-based perspective, I work to create a safe environment and partner with clients to help empower and equip them to face life’s challenges, while creating meaning for themselves along the way.
Many of my clients present with concerns related to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stressful life transitions and circumstances, perinatal mental health concerns, or they report feeling a little “off” and are seeking help to feel more like themselves again.
My goal is shalom, the Hebrew word for peace, wholeness and universal flourishing. Operating from a strengths-based perspective, I work to create a safe environment and partner with clients to help empower and equip them to face life’s challenges, while creating meaning for themselves along the way.
Are you wanting to improve the relationships you have?
I am trained in Level 1 & 2 Gottman relationship therapy, EMDR, CBT, and IFS. My approach is compassionate, client focused, and tailored to meet each client's unique spiritual and emotional needs. Whether you're wrestling with anxiety, grief, relationship difficulties, or spiritual doubt, I offer a safe space to grow in alignment with your faith.
Are you wanting to improve the relationships you have?
I am trained in Level 1 & 2 Gottman relationship therapy, EMDR, CBT, and IFS. My approach is compassionate, client focused, and tailored to meet each client's unique spiritual and emotional needs. Whether you're wrestling with anxiety, grief, relationship difficulties, or spiritual doubt, I offer a safe space to grow in alignment with your faith.
Our group of skilled, compassionate therapists brings deep training and experience to support concerns like anxiety, relationship stress, depression, loneliness, ADHD, trauma, and grief.
Our therapists bring a wide range of experience to support healing and growth. We help individuals and couples navigate grief, emotional disconnection, and relationship challenges using emotionally focused approaches, Imago, and the Gottman Method. For trauma, we offer compassionate, evidence-based care including CBT, DBT, AEDP, and EMDR.
Our group of skilled, compassionate therapists brings deep training and experience to support concerns like anxiety, relationship stress, depression, loneliness, ADHD, trauma, and grief.
Our therapists bring a wide range of experience to support healing and growth. We help individuals and couples navigate grief, emotional disconnection, and relationship challenges using emotionally focused approaches, Imago, and the Gottman Method. For trauma, we offer compassionate, evidence-based care including CBT, DBT, AEDP, and EMDR.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Behavioral Health Leadership, I bring over a decade of experience supporting adults facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma. My ideal clients often feel emotionally overwhelmed, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or uncertain about their next steps—and they’re ready for change.
I offer a warm, collaborative, and empowering space to help you understand your challenges, manage your emotions, and build healthier thought patterns. My approach blends evidence-based practices like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and trauma-informed care
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Behavioral Health Leadership, I bring over a decade of experience supporting adults facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma. My ideal clients often feel emotionally overwhelmed, stuck in unhealthy patterns, or uncertain about their next steps—and they’re ready for change.
I offer a warm, collaborative, and empowering space to help you understand your challenges, manage your emotions, and build healthier thought patterns. My approach blends evidence-based practices like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and trauma-informed care
Clients come to me with a variety of concerns: sexual desire, identity questions, sexual shame, body image concerns, religious deconstruction, navigating new types of relationships like queer, kinky, or non-monogamous ones, or they simply want a space to explore themselves in a way they never have before.
I root my practice in anti-oppressive frameworks, moving towards liberation for all genders, races, body types, abilities, nationalities, religious beliefs, sexual orientations, and family structures. My work is holistic and systemic, which means that we tend to all the parts of you and how they affect one another, plus the systems you're part of.
Clients come to me with a variety of concerns: sexual desire, identity questions, sexual shame, body image concerns, religious deconstruction, navigating new types of relationships like queer, kinky, or non-monogamous ones, or they simply want a space to explore themselves in a way they never have before.
I root my practice in anti-oppressive frameworks, moving towards liberation for all genders, races, body types, abilities, nationalities, religious beliefs, sexual orientations, and family structures. My work is holistic and systemic, which means that we tend to all the parts of you and how they affect one another, plus the systems you're part of.
Do you feel like your anxiety takes over at the worst possible moments? Are you finding it difficult to feel growth in managing trauma responses? Do you desire to explore your sex/intimacy identity and expression? Are you seeking a safe and brave space for therapy that utilizes somatic movement and explorations intersectional identity affiliations and alliances?
Do you feel like your anxiety takes over at the worst possible moments? Are you finding it difficult to feel growth in managing trauma responses? Do you desire to explore your sex/intimacy identity and expression? Are you seeking a safe and brave space for therapy that utilizes somatic movement and explorations intersectional identity affiliations and alliances?
My clients come to me with a variety of issues, such as relationship difficulties, anxiety, and depression.
I also use a cognitive-behavioral and integrated approach to develop practical and applicable solutions that can be used throughout your life. I aim to provide a haven for you to gain awareness, support, and the necessary skills to move from merely surviving to thriving.
My clients come to me with a variety of issues, such as relationship difficulties, anxiety, and depression.
I also use a cognitive-behavioral and integrated approach to develop practical and applicable solutions that can be used throughout your life. I aim to provide a haven for you to gain awareness, support, and the necessary skills to move from merely surviving to thriving.
If you are in monogamous, polyamorous, open, ENM, or extra-marital relationships.
I would love to work with you! I focus on supporting nourishing adult, individual and relationship states. Over the past 10 years, I’ve worked extensively with trauma, suicidality, and relationship distress; the intersections of identity, gender, and sexuality; and stress in marginalized ethnic, racial, religious, cultural, and immigrant communities.
If you are in monogamous, polyamorous, open, ENM, or extra-marital relationships.
I would love to work with you! I focus on supporting nourishing adult, individual and relationship states. Over the past 10 years, I’ve worked extensively with trauma, suicidality, and relationship distress; the intersections of identity, gender, and sexuality; and stress in marginalized ethnic, racial, religious, cultural, and immigrant communities.
When we go through painful experiences or relationships, it sometimes teaches us to believe something limiting, negative and UNTRUE about ourselves.
I use a combination of trauma therapy techniques including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), parts language (Internal Family Systems-informed) and somatic techniques in this work. I take a holistic approach, which means we listen to and tend to your whole self, body, mind and spirit.
When we go through painful experiences or relationships, it sometimes teaches us to believe something limiting, negative and UNTRUE about ourselves.
I use a combination of trauma therapy techniques including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), parts language (Internal Family Systems-informed) and somatic techniques in this work. I take a holistic approach, which means we listen to and tend to your whole self, body, mind and spirit.
I believe that couples and family therapy can provide a uniquely powerful context for relational growth.
I'm passionate about therapy that is effective and transparent. Clients can expect a collaborative approach in pursuing the areas of well-being they find most important. In session I promote inclusive and informative dialogue about content, skills, and strategy. I maintain a non-judgmental voice in the pursuit of a meaningful relationship!
I believe that couples and family therapy can provide a uniquely powerful context for relational growth.
I'm passionate about therapy that is effective and transparent. Clients can expect a collaborative approach in pursuing the areas of well-being they find most important. In session I promote inclusive and informative dialogue about content, skills, and strategy. I maintain a non-judgmental voice in the pursuit of a meaningful relationship!
Awareness To Wellness Counseling, Melinda Hawley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
Specialties include trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, stress, attachment, couple/ partner interaction/ communication, family-of-origin issues (including substance abuse-related), and work challenges.
Approaches include: Internal Family Systems (IFS-Informed and trained; L1 IFSI, SS-IFSCA). EMDR-Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDRIA certified). Attachment, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Mindfulness Based Relationship Enhancement. Neurofeedback. Brainspotting. Mind/body clinic experience with chronic illness, grief/loss.
Specialties include trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, stress, attachment, couple/ partner interaction/ communication, family-of-origin issues (including substance abuse-related), and work challenges.
Approaches include: Internal Family Systems (IFS-Informed and trained; L1 IFSI, SS-IFSCA). EMDR-Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDRIA certified). Attachment, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Mindfulness Based Relationship Enhancement. Neurofeedback. Brainspotting. Mind/body clinic experience with chronic illness, grief/loss.
I specialize in supporting clients facing anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, trauma, grief, self-esteem, and challenges with substance use.
For individual adult clients, I help you to challenge negative thinking, cope with painful emotions, confront unresolved issues, improve your relationships, and find your true self. With couples and families, I work on improving communication, developing mutually beneficial compromises, expressing feelings in a respectful manner, and being better parents.
I specialize in supporting clients facing anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, trauma, grief, self-esteem, and challenges with substance use.
For individual adult clients, I help you to challenge negative thinking, cope with painful emotions, confront unresolved issues, improve your relationships, and find your true self. With couples and families, I work on improving communication, developing mutually beneficial compromises, expressing feelings in a respectful manner, and being better parents.
Are you an individual, couple or family member impacted by substance use, alcohol use, or relationships that feel out of balance.
I believe that recovery is a collaborative process that is aided by honest caring without judgment. My practice is positive and solution-focused. Rather than adopting one method for all, I draw from a variety of effective and proven methods to provide options for each individual and situation.
Are you an individual, couple or family member impacted by substance use, alcohol use, or relationships that feel out of balance.
I believe that recovery is a collaborative process that is aided by honest caring without judgment. My practice is positive and solution-focused. Rather than adopting one method for all, I draw from a variety of effective and proven methods to provide options for each individual and situation.
See more therapy options for Athens
Nearby Couples Counseling Therapists Searches for Athens
See More Couples Counseling Therapists Couples Counseling Therapists
Does couples counseling work?
Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.
When should a couple seek counseling?
Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.
How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?
The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.
How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?
The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.