About Me
Child, Adolescent & Adult Therapist
Hi, I’m Kerri.
I’m not sure whether it was nature (my mom is a therapist) or nurture (growing up, I was always the friend that people would confide in) but I’m pretty sure I was destined to be a therapist. I’ve been told that I’m easy to talk to, that I’m warm and approachable, and that I’m “real”. At the same time, I’m not afraid to call out my clients if I notice that they are engaging in unhealthy patterns or behaviors (in a gentle way of course). My clients tell me they appreciate this about me, as they don’t just want someone who simply listens and nods. I try to use humor in sessions as well- I believe there is a place for both laughter and tears in sessions.
The Full Scoop
I’ve been practicing as a therapist for over twenty years and am licensed in both Florida and Georgia. I have a Bachelors in Psychology from University of Florida (Go Gators!) and a Masters in Social Work from Florida International University. When I first entered the field, I worked with victims of domestic violence and later, the perpetrators of domestic violence. I went on to work at a residential substance abuse facility. While I was treating these adults I learned fairly quickly that most of them had experienced pain and trauma as children that had never been addressed which greatly influenced many of the choices they made as adults. It was then that I decided I wanted to work with children, hoping that I would have a chance to help children heal when the wounds occurred. I continue to work with adults as well, but refer my couples out to professionals who specialize in couples counseling.
I enjoy helping those with ADHD, self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, and divorce adjustment. Having struggled myself, I have a special interest in helping those experiencing fertility challenges. I have authored two books, “How Zac Got his Z’s: A Guide to Getting Rid of Nightmares” and most recently, “Don’t Be Your Own Bully: A Guide to Recognizing and Defeating the Self-esteem Stealers That Live in Our Heads”. I use a variety of different approaches including play modalities, creative arts therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused treatment, traditional talk therapy and for those who feel stuck or have unresolved trauma, a brain-body technique known as brainspotting. I also lead workshops and groups on a variety of different topics.
When I moved to Atlanta in 2002, I began working as a therapist at Inner Harbour, an intensive residential psychiatric facility for troubled children. I worked with pre-adolescent boys in individual, group and family settings. While at Inner Harbour, I became certified as a Lead Facilitator in Equine Therapy (animal-assisted therapy utilizing horses) as well as a Lead Facilitator in Ropes Course.
In 2004, I joined Sweetwater Psychological Associates, a private practice in Lithia Springs and Marietta. While at Sweetwater, I received extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in adults and children. I routinely coordinated with physicians and schools to determine the most appropriate interventions.
In late 2005, I started my own private practice and had offices at a variety of different locations, most recently at Peachtree Art Therapy and Counseling in Buckhead. Working at PATC allowed me to incorporate more art into my sessions.
In the fall of 2019, I began practicing at the incredible space in Decatur Gathered and Grounded, dedicated to youth and those who care for them. Gathered and Grounded offered a variety of yoga and mindfulness/meditation classes for all ages, in addition to unique classes and workshops such as Comic Club and LGBTQ Talent Nights. Like most of us when the pandemic hit , I shifted to Telehealth so I could safely meet with clients virtually. While I was initially apprehensive about this platform, I have found that many clients enjoyed the convenience of meeting this way and I have enjoyed being able to see another window into my client’s lives. (I’ve met lots of adorable pets and seen many impromptu musical performances via Zoom). I have also been able to work with clients who live outside the city limits. Sadly, as a result of the pandemic, Gathered and Grounded had to shut its doors. I am excited to share that I have amazing new office space attached to Grant Park Coffeehouse. I could not ask for a more ideal space! My clients enjoy grabbing a coffee or sweet or savory treat before or after session and parents of clients enjoy reading a book, working or dining in the relaxing Coffeehouse while I meet with their child. I continue to offer Telehealth via Zoom. I also added an incredible new co-therapist, my therapy dog, Freddie Freeman Mercury.