Therapists in Dekalb County, GA
I've been serving communities for many years in various positions, and I have found that my ideal client is the one that is ready to work, even if they are not sure what needs to be done or even why. This client is open to collaborating with me in figuring out what about their right now is no longer working for them. Basically, my ideal client is the one that says "I want help for something different" & chooses me to be that helper!
I've been serving communities for many years in various positions, and I have found that my ideal client is the one that is ready to work, even if they are not sure what needs to be done or even why. This client is open to collaborating with me in figuring out what about their right now is no longer working for them. Basically, my ideal client is the one that says "I want help for something different" & chooses me to be that helper!
Dr. Hernel Smith-Selman
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC, LAPC, CPCS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hernel has a passion for empowering adolescents, adults, and couples to overcome personal obstacles to improve their lives to wholesome living. In her counseling practice, she uses clinically tested and evidenced-based eclectic mixed modalities to meet each client’s unique needs. Such modalities include mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, narrative, and art therapy, among other interventions. Hernel’s empathy and warmth help to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental atmosphere that allows her client to explore, process, and heal.
Hernel has a passion for empowering adolescents, adults, and couples to overcome personal obstacles to improve their lives to wholesome living. In her counseling practice, she uses clinically tested and evidenced-based eclectic mixed modalities to meet each client’s unique needs. Such modalities include mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, narrative, and art therapy, among other interventions. Hernel’s empathy and warmth help to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental atmosphere that allows her client to explore, process, and heal.
Is anxiety or trauma leaving you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck? I support women and LGBTQIA+ folks who are navigating anxiety, trauma, and chronic stress. My work is grounded in somatic therapy, an approach that focuses on how experiences live in the body and nervous system, not just in our thoughts. We will work together to build internal safety so your nervous system can begin to release patterns of overwhelm and protection that no longer serve you.
In our work, we gently support emotional processing while helping your nervous system find more balance and regulation.
Is anxiety or trauma leaving you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck? I support women and LGBTQIA+ folks who are navigating anxiety, trauma, and chronic stress. My work is grounded in somatic therapy, an approach that focuses on how experiences live in the body and nervous system, not just in our thoughts. We will work together to build internal safety so your nervous system can begin to release patterns of overwhelm and protection that no longer serve you.
In our work, we gently support emotional processing while helping your nervous system find more balance and regulation.
You look like you have it together—but inside, something doesn’t feel right.
You might find yourself overthinking everything, feeling disconnected from your emotions, or questioning who you really are. You may be the one others rely on, yet still feel overwhelmed, stuck, or alone in your experience.
I work with high-functioning young adults and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, grief, identity, life transitions, and relationship patterns like people-pleasing, fear of abandonment, and difficulty with boundaries. Many of my clients are thoughtful and self-aware, but feel caught in patterns that don’t reflect who they want to be.
You look like you have it together—but inside, something doesn’t feel right.
You might find yourself overthinking everything, feeling disconnected from your emotions, or questioning who you really are. You may be the one others rely on, yet still feel overwhelmed, stuck, or alone in your experience.
I work with high-functioning young adults and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, grief, identity, life transitions, and relationship patterns like people-pleasing, fear of abandonment, and difficulty with boundaries. Many of my clients are thoughtful and self-aware, but feel caught in patterns that don’t reflect who they want to be.
Life can sometimes bring challenges that are best approached by talking to someone who can provide an objective and supportive perspective. I view therapy as a partnership, and am committed to working together with you in difficult times. I am interested in helping you grow and make changes. Change will sometimes be easy and quick, but more often it can be slow and frustrating. While there are no instant cures, I can help you to learn new ways of looking at your concerns that will be very helpful for changing your feelings and reactions.
Life can sometimes bring challenges that are best approached by talking to someone who can provide an objective and supportive perspective. I view therapy as a partnership, and am committed to working together with you in difficult times. I am interested in helping you grow and make changes. Change will sometimes be easy and quick, but more often it can be slow and frustrating. While there are no instant cures, I can help you to learn new ways of looking at your concerns that will be very helpful for changing your feelings and reactions.
What is being adopted like for you? It's unique to each person and there are also commonalities, such as growing up fantasizing about your biological family or having others assume that because you are adopted, you had a great childhood. The reality is that being relinquished is a loss. The impact of adoption is often unacknowledged by family, therapists, and society at large. Now – as an adult – therapy offers a place to unpack your experience of adoption in connection with your past; great or otherwise. With more insight and clarity, your present life and relationships can become more rewarding and meaningful.
What is being adopted like for you? It's unique to each person and there are also commonalities, such as growing up fantasizing about your biological family or having others assume that because you are adopted, you had a great childhood. The reality is that being relinquished is a loss. The impact of adoption is often unacknowledged by family, therapists, and society at large. Now – as an adult – therapy offers a place to unpack your experience of adoption in connection with your past; great or otherwise. With more insight and clarity, your present life and relationships can become more rewarding and meaningful.
I am a licensed therapist in Georgia with 20 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ clients and individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and grief. My approach integrates evidence-based therapies like CBT and mindfulness with a compassionate and collaborative approach. I believe in creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your concerns and develop the tools to thrive. I've helped many clients overcome obstacles and build greater self-awareness and resilience.
I am a licensed therapist in Georgia with 20 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ clients and individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and grief. My approach integrates evidence-based therapies like CBT and mindfulness with a compassionate and collaborative approach. I believe in creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your concerns and develop the tools to thrive. I've helped many clients overcome obstacles and build greater self-awareness and resilience.
Do you struggle with managing emotions, finding purpose, stress, or self-worth? Do you feel anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about overcoming life challenges that interfere with your ability to function? I provide a safe, compassionate, culturally sensitive, and nonjudgmental space to be yourself and feel heard. I find meaning in guiding individuals, such as yourself, to redefine their mental & emotional well-being to achieve personal growth and life balance. I work with individuals from different cultural backgrounds dealing with 'burdensism', anxiety, first generation, grief, Immigration, ptsd & trauma.
Do you struggle with managing emotions, finding purpose, stress, or self-worth? Do you feel anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about overcoming life challenges that interfere with your ability to function? I provide a safe, compassionate, culturally sensitive, and nonjudgmental space to be yourself and feel heard. I find meaning in guiding individuals, such as yourself, to redefine their mental & emotional well-being to achieve personal growth and life balance. I work with individuals from different cultural backgrounds dealing with 'burdensism', anxiety, first generation, grief, Immigration, ptsd & trauma.
You appear capable and composed — but your mind rarely slows down. You replay conversations, second-guess decisions, and feel responsible for more than your share. Most people call this anxiety. I see it as a learned pattern. I work with thoughtful, responsible adults who are ready to understand the psychology behind their stress and address it at the root — not just manage symptoms.
You appear capable and composed — but your mind rarely slows down. You replay conversations, second-guess decisions, and feel responsible for more than your share. Most people call this anxiety. I see it as a learned pattern. I work with thoughtful, responsible adults who are ready to understand the psychology behind their stress and address it at the root — not just manage symptoms.
I am a dedicated mental health professional passionate about improving access to quality mental health services and resources. With experience working with diverse populations, I specialize in helping individuals navigate challenges such as depression, stress, anxiety, and life transitions.
I am a dedicated mental health professional passionate about improving access to quality mental health services and resources. With experience working with diverse populations, I specialize in helping individuals navigate challenges such as depression, stress, anxiety, and life transitions.
You show up for everyone, manage endless details, and make it look easy. Yet inside, you may feel anxious, disconnected, or simply worn down by the pace of life. You are ready to slow down, feel calmer, and reconnect with what matters most.
You show up for everyone, manage endless details, and make it look easy. Yet inside, you may feel anxious, disconnected, or simply worn down by the pace of life. You are ready to slow down, feel calmer, and reconnect with what matters most.
Ben firmly believes that everyone makes sense in the context of their own story. And each of our stories deserves someone to perceive it with empathy and nonjudgment. Ben's goal is to provide an environment where fear and uncertainty can give way to understanding and mindfulness. He believes in the healing power that the therapy room can provide, by giving space for some of life's biggest questions and deepest hurts.
Ben firmly believes that everyone makes sense in the context of their own story. And each of our stories deserves someone to perceive it with empathy and nonjudgment. Ben's goal is to provide an environment where fear and uncertainty can give way to understanding and mindfulness. He believes in the healing power that the therapy room can provide, by giving space for some of life's biggest questions and deepest hurts.
When human beings experience life-altering stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My great passion is bringing healing to people who have been through severe life stressors. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. Most of my 20+ year career has been spent working with adults, children, adolescents and their families in a community-based, inpatient, and school-based counseling program.
When human beings experience life-altering stressors, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My great passion is bringing healing to people who have been through severe life stressors. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. Most of my 20+ year career has been spent working with adults, children, adolescents and their families in a community-based, inpatient, and school-based counseling program.
I strive to offer a warm, non-judgmental space where my clients can explore what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to shift in order to live with more clarity, confidence, and connection. I’m passionate about supporting people across the full spectrum of substance use—from those just starting to question their relationship with substances to those in long-term recovery. I also enjoy working with loved ones impacted by addiction, offering education, support, and space to process their own experience.
I strive to offer a warm, non-judgmental space where my clients can explore what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to shift in order to live with more clarity, confidence, and connection. I’m passionate about supporting people across the full spectrum of substance use—from those just starting to question their relationship with substances to those in long-term recovery. I also enjoy working with loved ones impacted by addiction, offering education, support, and space to process their own experience.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who takes a collaborative, empowering, and supportive approach to therapy. I work with individuals navigating a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, identity exploration, major life transitions, academic and career concerns, and healing from trauma.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process, where a strong therapeutic relationship creates a sense of safety and opens the door for meaningful change. As an active therapist, I tailor each session to meet your unique needs, blending deep exploration with goal-focused strategies. I am LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent affirming.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who takes a collaborative, empowering, and supportive approach to therapy. I work with individuals navigating a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, identity exploration, major life transitions, academic and career concerns, and healing from trauma.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process, where a strong therapeutic relationship creates a sense of safety and opens the door for meaningful change. As an active therapist, I tailor each session to meet your unique needs, blending deep exploration with goal-focused strategies. I am LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent affirming.
Driven by purpose, I serve clients through guidance and support. Using faith and psychology, my goal is to help clients on an emotional level with any problem they are capable of handling. I’m trained to work with individuals, families, couples, and groups from a wide variety of backgrounds, populations, and ages in treating mental, behavioral, and emotional problems and disorders. My purpose in therapy is to work with each client to develop skills to help them reach their goals.
Driven by purpose, I serve clients through guidance and support. Using faith and psychology, my goal is to help clients on an emotional level with any problem they are capable of handling. I’m trained to work with individuals, families, couples, and groups from a wide variety of backgrounds, populations, and ages in treating mental, behavioral, and emotional problems and disorders. My purpose in therapy is to work with each client to develop skills to help them reach their goals.
I have been counseling clients for over 25 years, helping people from all walks of life to overcome barriers to living a happier life. Whether you are struggling with addiction issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, sexual identity issues, relationship issues, feeling overwhelmed by life's demands or the current political climate, or seeking a deeper sense of purpose and meaning, we can work together to find solutions. Life can be full of pain and struggle, but it is also full of beauty and inspiration. If you have become overwhelmed by the struggle, let's begin today to lighten your burden.
I have been counseling clients for over 25 years, helping people from all walks of life to overcome barriers to living a happier life. Whether you are struggling with addiction issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, sexual identity issues, relationship issues, feeling overwhelmed by life's demands or the current political climate, or seeking a deeper sense of purpose and meaning, we can work together to find solutions. Life can be full of pain and struggle, but it is also full of beauty and inspiration. If you have become overwhelmed by the struggle, let's begin today to lighten your burden.
Thank you for visiting my page! I primarily work with older adolescents, young adults, and adults who are dealing with a variety of personal challenges that may include depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, addiction, family/relationship stress, school/work issues, and navigating life changes. Within social work theories, I gravitate towards the ecological and systems theories, which focus on how one's environment and unique experiences shape individual functioning and adaptation. My social work background helps me to integrate this holistic orientation into my mental health therapy practice.
Thank you for visiting my page! I primarily work with older adolescents, young adults, and adults who are dealing with a variety of personal challenges that may include depression, trauma, stress, anxiety, addiction, family/relationship stress, school/work issues, and navigating life changes. Within social work theories, I gravitate towards the ecological and systems theories, which focus on how one's environment and unique experiences shape individual functioning and adaptation. My social work background helps me to integrate this holistic orientation into my mental health therapy practice.
Hello. My name is Susan. You can call me Mrs. Sue for short. I have been in the counseling field for 13 years now and I really love what I do. I mainly work with young adults and middle age. My goal is to help us all live a better life while we look forward to our future. I love to see growth in others because it means that positive things are bound to happen. My focus areas are mental health; families; anxiety; grief and depression. I hope I can help you with your issues and overcoming many problems in life.
Hello. My name is Susan. You can call me Mrs. Sue for short. I have been in the counseling field for 13 years now and I really love what I do. I mainly work with young adults and middle age. My goal is to help us all live a better life while we look forward to our future. I love to see growth in others because it means that positive things are bound to happen. My focus areas are mental health; families; anxiety; grief and depression. I hope I can help you with your issues and overcoming many problems in life.
I firmly believe that all things are possible to them that are seeking to achieve. Success is often accomplished with critiqued caring and considerate professional support; resulting in an independent renewed lifestyle.
I firmly believe that all things are possible to them that are seeking to achieve. Success is often accomplished with critiqued caring and considerate professional support; resulting in an independent renewed lifestyle.
See more therapy options for Dekalb County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Dekalb County, GA
2,000+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Dekalb County, GA who prioritize treating:
| 92% | Anxiety |
| 92% | Social Anxiety |
| 92% | Health Anxiety |
| 92% | Driving Anxiety |
| 85% | Depression |
| 72% | Self Esteem |
| 70% | Relationship Issues |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 88% | Aetna |
| 73% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 66% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in Dekalb County, GA see their clients
| 61% | In Person and Online | |
| 39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 83% | Female | |
| 15% | Male | |
| 2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Dekalb County?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.


