Find a therapist, counselor or psychologist in Athens, GA

"With a background in medical social work, I understand the emotional impact and mental health needs of children, adults, and aging populations managing chronic illness as well as conditions that impede daily function, relationships, and quality of life."

Jill Hughes is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in counseling and care management. She has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and aging clients in individual, couples, family, and group therapy to address concerns about the self and relationships. Jill specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and major life transitions and has additionally trained to work with clients experiencing the symptoms and effects of OCD, TBI, and PTSD.

Jill completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree at The University of Georgia and obtained her T-5 Teaching Certificate in Georgia, the equivalent of a master's level teaching degree, from Piedmont University. She began her professional career working with adults in protective services and children in foster care and understands the emotional needs of the individual requiring care as well as the person and/or family responsible for that care. In addition, Jill has a background in medical social services and is passionate about helping adults and children that are managing chronic illnesses and conditions which impact daily function, long-term health, and quality of life. She utilizes a collaborative and integrative counseling approach which includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT,) solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness to address and ameliorate emotional issues and concerns.

"Rarely, if ever, are any of us healed in isolation. Healing is an act of communion."

-bell hooks; author, educator, social activist.

Jill uses a variety of therapeutic techniques and interventions to meet individual needs and optimize the overall health and well-being of her clients. Her goal is for individuals and families to feel comfortable and safe in working toward their goals, managing emotions, increasing connectedness, improving relationships, and making life transitions to achieve the quality of life yearned for and so deserved.

"When life gets complicated, sometimes it helps to be seen, heard, and understood in a safe and non-judgmental space. **Providing EMDR in-person only**"

Beth Phillips is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Georgia. She works closely with adults between the ages of 21 and 70 who are struggling to function to the fullest potential in their daily life. 

Beth holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of Georgia in Athens (GO DAWGS!) and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Psychology from Argosy University of Atlanta. Beth subscribes to the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers, of which she is a member.

Beth’s clinical approach is intentionally eclectic, empathetic, and person-centered, valuing a highly connected client-therapist relationship. Her practice is informed significantly by CBT, DBT, and a diverse mix of other theoretical approaches, however, remains based in mindfulness and maintains the flexibility required to best meet your needs.

Beth provides therapeutic services to individuals viewing life through many different lenses and will meet you where you are, working together to create and implement a plan for a better life. Her greatest joy is celebrating with a client their victories, achieved goals, improved relationships, and finding hope where there once was darkness.

"I like to work with people and provide them unique opportunities to grow as they journey through life."

David Koepnick is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of experience. He specializes in working with preteens, adolescents, and adults who struggle with ADHD, anger management, anxiety, behavior problems, depression, learning disorders, relationship issues, spirituality and faith-based issues, substance abuse, technology/gaming addiction, and trauma. David also has experience working with couples and families and in community-based counseling and assessment.

David has a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Stephen F. Austin State University. He uses approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, Logotherapy, person-centered therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, conjoint family therapy structured family therapy, and mindfulness-based methods.

David is passionate about helping clients meet their full potential by identifying unique strengths, addressing irrational thinking, and increasing personal effectiveness and communication. Therapy can be a challenging yet rewarding journey. If you are ready to begin yours, David wants to help you get started.

"Life can be overwhelming, and we all need help navigating the journey. Allow me the opportunity to assist you in overcoming challenges, restoring hope, and healing trauma."

Justie Huff is a Licensed Master Social Worker with 5 years of experience and a passion for working with BIPOC, LGBTQ+ youth, and families in crisis. She has had the honor of serving children and youth with developmental disabilities, autism, and chronic illnesses, as well as clients managing bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, anger, and relationship issues. Justie is further experienced in trauma, grief, social skills, and race-related issues.

Justie has a Master of Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh. Her therapeutic approach includes cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. She believes in challenging clients to learn new ways of thinking and behaving.

There are infinite possibilities ahead of you! Justie wants to work with you to accept what has been and dream of what could be. You deserve to pursue the life and happiness you desire. Choose today to make the change you want to see!

"Guilt, shame, and trauma are burdens you shouldn’t have to bear alone."

Alexes Davis is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LPC-A) who specializes in working with progressive adult women, ready to navigate the roadblocks that are preventing them from living with peace and pride. Alexes specializes in trauma, grief & loss, LGBTQIA+ issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and stress management.

Alexes completed her Master’s degree in Professional Counseling at the University of Georgia. As a trauma survivor and a licensed professional, Alexes is able to provide an educational and personal touch to the therapeutic experience. Alexes utilizes multiple treatment approaches including person-centered therapy (PCT), multicultural therapy (MCT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), internal family systems therapy (IFS), interpersonal processing (IP), motivational interviewing (MI), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed care.

Navigating life without treating the emotional wounds you’ve collected along the way robs you of the opportunity to thrive. Investing in the journey of processing and healing are the foundation for establishing healthier habits and happier life. With gentle curiosity and an openness to change, Alexes is confident that you can collaborate on a plan to reignite the joy in your life. If you’re ready to begin this journey, schedule an appointment with her today.

"I offer genuine therapeutic interventions in order to get you to your goals. Don't just cope — heal, gain insight and live your best life."

Kathy Boyce is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience providing care to adult clients dealing with childhood trauma, narcissistic or unhealthy parenting, codependency, attachment issues, LGBTQIA concerns, religious trauma, and related symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and sexual issues. Kathy helps clients recognize and heal from hidden emotional childhood neglect and narcissistic abuse, while also addressing the impact of dysfunctional childhood environments. Kathy is inclusive of all religious and non-religious backgrounds, kink-affirming, and welcomes clients of all sexual orientations.

Kathy utilizes a variety of therapeutic interventions, including internal family systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other cognitive and trauma-focused models.

Compassionate yet challenging, Kathy will support you in going beyond mere coping to truly healing and overcoming barriers in your life. Together, you’ll recover from your past and create a better future. Don’t just cope – heal, gain insight, and live your best life with Kathy’s guidance.

"I work hard to provide a safe, affirming, and honest space for all because I understand the importance of being heard, being seen, and feeling connected."

Dr. Jan Miller is a Licensed Psychologist with 18+ years of experience in the mental health field. Jan is trained as a generalist and works with clients who have depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-worth, relational concerns, and substance use issues. She specializes in eating disorders. Jan is a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, and she utilizes Health at Every Size (HAES) and body neutrality in her clinical work. Jan's clinical approach is evidence-based and grounded in the therapeutic relationship. She works hard to provide a safe, affirming, and honest space for clients to feel heard, seen, and connected.

Jan completed her Ph.D. at West Virginia University, but previously worked to serve clients in the mental health field with her Master of Psychology. Her focus on building relationships with clients allows her to work successfully with a range of clients. Jan tailors her clinical approach to what the client needs, using evidence-based, ethical practices.

Jan understands that it can be hard to ask for help. She wants you to know she will make this 1st step as painless as possible for you! She will create a nonjudgmental space for you to address your needs and help you generate ideas to better your life. If you're ready to embark on this journey, schedule an appointment to see where she can help you go.

*THIS CLINICIAN DOES NOT CONDUCT PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING AND EVALUATIONS