Find a therapist, counselor or psychologist in Kennesaw, GA

"With over 20 years of experience, I have realized that life situations happen when you least expect it."

Leslie Middleton Walters, EdD, is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 26 years of experience in the mental health field. In times of death, divorce, financial issues, family relational problems, or any issue that brings about episodes of emotional unrest, Leslie believes that it is always best to reach out to someone that can assist with de-escalating fears and re-establishing hope, and provide encouragement to persevere during the dark times. Her primary goal is to help others face their challenges, fears, and become the person that they want to be through the development of lifelong coping skills, in an environment that is accepting and open to individualized thoughts and ideas.

Leslie completed both her Master of Science (MS) in Mental Health Counseling and her Master of Science (MS) in Guidance and Counseling at Fort Valley State University. She went on to complete her Doctor of Education (EdD) in Counseling Psychology at Argosy University. Through the use of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques and other evidenced-based practices, Leslie assists those seeking a brand-new start to let go and accept their past so that they can invest in their future. While her degrees have provided her with the education to engage in expert counseling strategies, it has been Leslie's hands-on experience in helping others that has given her the emotional tools to help those take that first step to a new beginning.

It is because of these experiences, that my counseling practices are built upon a foundation of faith, hope, trust, perseverance, and the understanding that helping others is one of the greatest privileges of my life.

"I have over 20 years of experience working with many different issues, and I am always easy to talk to."

Betsy Leamy is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 20 years of experience helping others to face their challenges, which may include, depression, anxiety, depression, addictions, abuse, trauma, PTSD, anger issues, chronic stress or illness, family conflict, women's issues, and more.

Betsy earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Georgia State University where she also earned her Master’s degree in Community Counseling. Betsy utilizes an eclectic group of therapies including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy (PCT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based methods, and more.

Betsy knows from experience, both personally and professionally, that people can make miraculous changes in their lives. She looks forward to working with you and hopes to hear from you soon. Reach out to schedule your first session today.

""To walk a mile begins with a single step" As a therapist and an individual who has experienced trauma, loss and emotional pain, I have an authentic understanding of how life stressors can impact one's life and how such trials can be used to build and empower our future endeavors."

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with clients who have experienced depression, both childhood and adult trauma, codependency issues, anxiety, grief/loss, stress, life transitions, and PTSD. I also work with individuals suffering from grief, divorce, and issues pertaining to aging. I offer counseling to teens, adults, and families through a down-to-earth counseling approach.

Together, we'll create a schedule that works for you-whether it's weekly or bi-weekly, in person or online. I'll regularly check in to ensure you're satisfied with your progress, and I'm always open to feedback to adjust your treatment as needed.

My core beliefs are grounded in unconditional positive regard for all. My passion is to help others reach their full potential of emotional peace. If you are ready to begin your journey, feel free to call and make an appointment. I am here and ready to listen!

"I’m really glad you’re here! Reaching out takes courage, and I’m here to offer a safe space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings and where you’ll be met with empathy, honesty, and support wherever you are on your journey."

Darice Dodd is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s complexities. She specializes in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, and life transitions. Darice works with diverse populations and provides a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions, overcome challenges, and pursue meaningful personal growth.

Darice holds a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Georgia State University. Her approach is eclectic and strength-based, integrating various therapeutic modalities, including internal family systems and play therapy, to create personalized, effective treatment plans that support clients in navigating challenges and fostering resilience.

Embarking on a therapeutic journey is a courageous step, and Darice is committed to walking alongside clients in their journey. She provides a safe space for self-exploration, healing, and empowerment, tailoring care to each client’s needs. If you’re ready to begin, she welcomes you to take the next step toward healing and self-discovery.

"As a seasoned clinician, I take an empathetic and collaborative approach in supporting and empowering individuals to overcome short- and long-term challenges. I understand the struggles and the rewards."

Dr. Hammond is a post-graduate resident therapist who specializes in building trusting relationships. Lesley works jointly with her clients to create workable and attainable goals in support of each individual’s needs. Dr. Hammond’s undergraduate studies in Psychology were completed at Kennesaw State University. Lesley received her Master of Arts from Argosy University Atlanta and continued to complete her counseling doctoral program at Argosy as well.

Dr. Hammond’s therapeutic foundation is based on providing a safe place for clients to express, explore, and better understand their vulnerabilities and strengths. Lesley utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Person-Centered and Strength-Based interventions. “I have found that when individuals are supported through these theoretical interventions, they have the ability to better understand and develop coping skills to overcome their unhelpful thoughts and behaviors," she says.

While completing Lesley’s doctoral internship, she spent several months working within the Smyrna, GA, Ridgeview Institute’s detoxification program. One of the most valuable lessons Dr. Hammond learned was “everyone in the program had a story” and “whether that story was shared in individual counseling sessions, or in a group session, feeling safe enough to express how one thinks and feels is healing in itself.” No matter what the challenge, please reach out to Lesley to explore the therapeutic possibilities in creating mindful and meaningful changes.

"Having navigated my own struggles with mental health and trauma, I’ve come to understand healing not as a destination, but as a personal and nonlinear journey that can inspire us to be closer to the self we chose to be."

I am a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC) with 4 years of experience supporting individuals through a wide range of life challenges. I work with adolescents, teenagers, adults, and seniors navigating anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, trauma, life transitions, self-harm behaviors, and dual diagnoses. I strive to help clients better understand where they are in their current chapter of life while building skills to move forward with clarity and confidence. I also integrate my perspective as both a clinician and someone who understands the vulnerability of being a client, creating a supportive, nonjudgmental therapeutic environment.

I earned my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Antioch University. My approach is client-centered and evidence-based, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused interventions, and person-centered therapy. You do not need to have everything figured out to begin therapy. What matters most is your willingness to show up as you are. I will meet you with calm, steady support and walk alongside you as you explore your thoughts and emotions. When you are ready, I invite you to schedule a session so we can begin this work together with care and intention.

"As a single mother of 4 children I know and understand the unique challenges that come with parenting on your own and still making time for self-care."

Kelly Freeman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. Kelly is focused on empowering adults to heal, learn, grow, and evolve through life's many challenges. She specializes in depression, addiction, life transitions, and grief & loss, along with parenting, adoption, anxiety, and codependency.

Kelly completed her Master of Social Work degree (MSW) at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. She is a single mom with 4 kids, ages 15-23 (plus a very loving cat!) who definitely keep her busy. She understands the struggles that come as a working parent both personally and professionally, encouraging a focus on acceptance while releasing resistance (ACT) and mindfully incorporating your worthiness while practicing grounding exercises & total body awareness. In addition, Kelly provides ongoing education regarding the thought/emotion/behavior connection (CBT) and assistance in moving toward solutions to everyday problems (solution-focused therapy.)

Kelly believes that each of us holds all the power we need to change our lives and find the contentment we seek. She feels it is truly within our reach to find our own voice, empower ourselves and cultivate the peace that so many of us long for.