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.

"As a trained psychotherapist, I am aware that the journey to wellbeing is one's own and I am here to assist with the life challenges one may encounter during this journey. "

Dr. Janie Oliver is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Provider Credentialing Specialist (LPC, CPCS) with over 25 years of extensive experience working with military veterans, children, adolescents, and their families, as well as those individuals experiencing physical, verbal, emotional, and sexual abuse or other types of trauma.

Dr. Oliver has received training in expressive art therapy (EAT), cognitive and behavioral therapies (CBT). In addition to being a trauma-informed clinician, she incorporates a holistic perspective to assist clients in discovering their personal strengths, while identifying support systems, and successfully achieving their therapeutic goals.

Work together with Dr. Oliver as you explore the conditions or concerns that are troubling you. She'll help you make progress and learn to prioritize your personal wellbeing with success.

"As a counselor with nearly two decades of experience providing counseling services in various arenas, I believe that together, we can get you to your goals."

Kelshia Keys is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor,(LAPC, CRC, CSC) a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, and a Certified School Counselor in the state of Georgia who has more than 10 years of experience partnering with children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, stress, anger, low self-esteem, and vocational issues. 

She completed her Bachelor's degree at Grambling State University, her Master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Georgia State University, and earned an add-on certification in School Guidance and Counseling from the University of West Georgia. Kelshia uses an eclectic blend of therapeutic approaches to address each client's unique needs.

Kelshia seeks to establish a partnership with you in order to assist with building on your strengths and helping you move toward your goals and living the meaningful life you value and desire.

"You already have what it takes to be the you that you want to be. I want to help you find that person."

Brent “Woody” Harris is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. Woody completed his Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology at the University of West Georgia and has done post-masters work at Saybrook University in San Francisco. He is a Certified Clinical Supervisor, trained in trauma-focused therapy and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), a Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) Level II therapist, and a Geek Therapist. 

Woody believes that therapy can be an essential tool for personal growth and confronting barriers. He has worked to develop understanding of experiential tools such as music, games, play, and media to support change and enhance self-awareness. Woody also employs a background of humanistic, existential, phenomenological, and transpersonal therapies as his primary therapeutic style.

Woody wants to help you with identifying goals, and confronting barriers. He would like to walk alongside you on your path of growth, and assist you with the shadows and uncertainty that come with self-exploration. Woody also wants you to know that there is nothing wrong with having fun along the way.

"I aim to empower individuals who wish to overcome personal obstacles; now is the time to put your mental health first."

Shantel Miller is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor who specializes in anxiety, life changes/transitions, substance use, anger, and mood changes. Shantel is a highly motivated, conscientious individual who is passionate about client care and developing a therapeutic rapport. 

Shantel obtained a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Valdosta State University in 2012 and then went on to graduate with her Master of Arts in Professional Counseling in 2018. With guidance, her clients develop their treatment goals in accordance with their own life goals, interests, and life aspirations.

"As a clinician and trauma survivor, I understand difficulties of moving past your pain and will help you discover a new world filled with hope!"

Renee Atwood is a Resident in Counseling and Licensed Associate Professional Counselor. She has worked with clients who have experienced depression, both childhood and adult trauma, codependency issues, anxiety, and PTSD. She has also worked with individuals suffering from grief, divorce, and issues pertaining to aging. Renee has counseled teens, adults, and families through a down-to-earth counseling approach.

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. I commend you on taking your first step towards healing,” says Renee. “Reaching out for counseling can be frightening, but I want every client to feel heard, safe and secure. As your therapist, I will graciously commit to a safe, confidential therapeutic relationship while encouraging healing from trauma, emotional disturbances, and intergenerational issues.”

Renee’s core beliefs are grounded in unconditional positive regard for all. Her 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. Renee is here and ready to listen!

"Life can be like flying on an airplane. Sometimes you are aware of the turbulent times—you put on your seatbelt and weather the bumps. Sometimes turbulent times come out of nowhere and you have no way to prepare for them. I want to support you in times of stress and uncertainty. I aim to empower you to cope and understand how your thought processes may be hindering or helping you."

Ashley Henry is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor who has been working in the field of counseling off and on for the past 10 years. She is excited about helping children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families discover their strengths, and work through life’s difficulties and transitions.

Ashley earned her master’s degree in counseling from Montclair State University. She specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, relationships, and self-esteem. Ashley has lived and traveled to many different places around the world and understands that every culture has its unique perspective, beliefs, and relationship dynamics. She enjoys combining her love for learning and exploring different cultures with her counseling practice. Ashley utilizes an eclectic counseling approach with an emphasis on building empathy and rapport.

With empathy, genuine care, and an absolute lack of judgment, Ashley offers a safe space for people to explore life’s challenges and create a positive journey toward productive mental health. She’s passionate about helping people become the best versions of themselves and understanding their paths forward.

"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.

"As a child who grew up facing the challenges of emotional trauma, I understand what it's like trying to express oneself when it feels like no one is listening."

Kayeeshia (Kay) Morris is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with more than 10 years of professional experience working with individual children, teens, and young adults, as well as families. Her passion is creating a safe environment for those in need to talk and process their life stressors. Kay has experience working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, relational issues, trauma, situational stress, and issues with social skills and self-esteem.

Kay is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), crisis intervention, positive psychology, and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). With children, Kay uses play and therapeutic art techniques to help facilitate the expression of difficult and uncomfortable emotions. Kay’s goal with each client is to help foster motivation and gain perspective. 

Kay is committed to creating a safe, trusting, and supportive environment that honor’s her client’s dignity, worth, and self-determination. This allows her to work alongside her clients and their families in the therapeutic process of healing, growth, and overall well-being. Meeting you where you are, she looks forward to helping you create a space where you feel comfortable to explore with curiosity and compassion.

Melissa is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor who is passionate about mental health and helping individuals throughout the journey of life. Melissa completed a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University, and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of South Florida. She is experienced in working with wide variety of mental and emotional health needs, including depression, anxiety, relationships, career related topics, stress management, trauma and PTSD, grief, LBGTQ+ topics, women’s issues, and infertility. Melissa enjoys working with individuals who are seeking to gain new insight into themselves and the world around them and are active in their counseling journey. Melissa’s counseling style is warm, encouraging, and collaborative. She believes the counseling process is most effective when it is viewed as a partnership in which the client is the expert in their own lives. Melissa seeks to provide a space in which individuals can safely explore and process their emotional situations free of judgement, with a clinician that is focused on helping each individual grow. Seeking counseling services is courageous and is a great step toward self-improvement and moving beyond the challenges you may be facing. Melissa is excited to begin this journey with you and will be a skilled guide through the counseling and healing process, helping you to build upon your strengths and work toward your specific goals.

"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.

"I am a Latina woman who has struggled with OCD, chronic health issues, and their stigmas, and I hope to create a nonjudgmental environment for you to feel accepted, discover your strengths, and give you the tools to show up authentically in your life."

Cecilia Perez is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia working with adolescents and adults experiencing major life transitions, grief, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, relationship issues, adolescent issues, and trauma.

Cecilia received her Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Towson University and is passionate about mental health and treating mental health disorders. Cecilia utilizes an integrative approach to therapy, incorporating strengths-based, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic approaches to treatment. She will help you find which methods work best for you.

Seeking therapy can be an uncomfortable experience. Cecilia hopes to make therapy safe and enjoyable by working collaboratively with you to tailor your treatment to your needs. She strives to create a warm and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel accepted and can be themselves. She will help you identify your strengths, advocate for yourself, and discover new coping strategies so that you are able to be present and live according to your values.

My philosophy of care is based upon open and honest communication, partnership, and consistency. The path to change and personal growth is not easy. Arguably, most things worth having require a great deal of dedication and perseverance. However, the rewards are unlimited and based on your willingness to invest as you are worth receiving care and support.  

After some of your counseling sessions, you may feel invigorated; other sessions may leave you feeling pensive or perplexed. Deep reflection and even confusion are often active signs of progress. Many individuals enter counseling with maladaptive (unhealthy) coping skills. These are skills that work short-term yet may leave us feeling empty over time with damaged relationships. I’d like to partner with you to develop healthy tools to manage life stressors, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, etc. 

For counselors-in-training seeking supervision towards associate or full-licensure, my approach is collaborative, skill-building, and ethically sound. Additionally, I also aim to prepare you for the “business side” of counseling, which is often neglected in the supervision process. I also specialize in clinical documentation and regulatory preparedness, which are vital to a clinician’s overall success.