Our therapists offer EMDR therapy in Athens, GA

Karyn Kochan is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Mediator in the state of Georgia. She is also a Certified Anger Management Professional and a Certified Life Coach. Karyn has 20+ years of experience empowering adults and couples with anxiety, anger, depression, and trauma to become successful in every area of their lives. 

Karyn has earned her Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science and her Masters of Science in Counseling from National Louis University in Chicago, IL. She has done post-graduate studies in Organizational Psychology at Walden University in Minneapolis, MN. She uses an eclectic and collaborative approach in her counseling practice. Karyn’s experience includes 8 years of mental health counseling in two psychiatric hospitals. In Illinois, Karyn was a Program Coordinator in a Dual Diagnosis inpatient unit. In Georgia, she was an inpatient & outpatient Psychiatric Program counselor and facilitator. 

Karyn seeks to establish a warm relationship with you utilizing a strength-based perspective, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused therapy. She uses a creative approach by including meditation, visualization, exercise therapy, and the arts to bring meaning and value to your life.

Cathy Wardlaw is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of experience. She specializes in working with adolescents and adults who are dealing with trauma, ADHD, adjustment issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues. Before becoming a counselor, Cathy worked for 15 years in the public school system as a paraprofessional, serving elementary and high school students.

Cathy received her Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University. She uses a variety of clinical approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, acceptance commitment therapy, dialectal behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and mindfulness techniques.

Cathy believes that making clients feel safe and heard is the foundation for success in therapy. She will guide you in identifying your strengths, setting boundaries and goals, and letting go of what does not serve you. Reach out to Cathy today!

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker trained in EMDR and other evidence based therapies, with extensive experience providing trauma informed care. I work primarily with young adult and middle aged women navigating burnout, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship stress. Many feel overwhelmed or stuck in painful cycles and are seeking clarity, confidence, emotional balance, and healthier ways of coping and connecting. 

My approach integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, blending practical skill building with deep emotional work. I focus on helping clients regulate emotions, strengthen boundaries, process trauma, and build self trust - so change feels steady and sustainable rather than overwhelming.

You do not have to navigate this season alone. Therapy can be a space where you feel understood, supported, and empowered to grow. When you are ready, I invite you to take the next step and begin the work toward a more grounded and fulfilling life.

Stephanie is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience. Throughout her career, she has focused on assisting veterans, military families, and individuals dealing with addiction. Stephanie is committed to supporting them by helping them develop coping mechanisms and, when they are prepared, utilizing eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to address and process their traumatic experiences. By tailoring her approach to each individual's needs, Stephanie aims to empower her clients to overcome their challenges and lead fulfilling lives.

Stephanie earned a Master's in Social Work at Western New Mexico University. As a disabled veteran's spouse and a trauma survivor, Stephanie understands the need for trauma-informed care. She utilizes EMDR to treat trauma and PTSD. Stephanie's approach is rooted in the belief that everyone has unique strengths that can be used to navigate challenges.

Stephanie understands that making significant changes in one's life can be daunting, but she is dedicated to supporting you on this journey toward personal growth and healing. With her guidance, you can build resilience, cultivate self-awareness, and discover the potential for transformation within yourself.

Shakaelah Fisher is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor with 2 years of experience supporting children, teens, and adults. She specializes in helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship challenges. Shakaelah’s therapeutic approach is client-centered and personalized, grounded in the belief that every person’s path to healing is unique. She is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered, and her goal is to tailor each session to meet individual needs while equipping clients with tools for lasting growth.

Shakaelah earned a Master’s in Clinical Counseling Psychology from Clayton State University. She integrates person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization reprocessing, and ART therapy techniques.

Shakaelah is passionate about walking alongside clients on their journey toward healing. She works to foster resilience, growth, and self-discovery, empowering clients to overcome challenges and build fulfilling lives. She looks forward to supporting you in taking the next step toward emotional well-being.