Melissa Murphy

LCSW-C

About

Melissa Murphy, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, C-DBT, is a seasoned therapist and clinical director at Bethesda Therapy, licensed in Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and OCD, she employs ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) and Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), recognized as leading treatments for OCD. Melissa's expertise extends to managing mood disorders, sexual dysfunction, and pelvic pain disorders. Her approach is collaborative and strengths-based, focusing on developing personalized strategies for each client.

As a Gottman-trained couples therapist, Melissa is adept at addressing the complexities of relationships affected by ADHD and OCD. She also treats Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) and finds profound fulfillment in supporting therapists and those in helping professions. Her work is underpinned by advanced training in both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

Melissa Murphy, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, C-DBT, is a seasoned therapist and clinical director at Bethesda Therapy, licensed in Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and OCD, she employs ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) and Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT), recognized as leading treatments for OCD. Melissa's expertise extends to managing mood disorders, sexual dysfunction, and pelvic pain disorders. Her approach is collaborative and strengths-based, focusing on developing personalized strategies for each client.

As a Gottman-trained couples therapist, Melissa is adept at addressing the complexities of relationships affected by ADHD and OCD. She also treats Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) and finds profound fulfillment in supporting therapists and those in helping professions. Her work is underpinned by advanced training in both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

Jenny Brooks

Psychologist

About

I believe that creating a warm, safe, and respectful environment is pertinent to establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship with my clients and helping them to achieve their therapy goals. I strongly believe that therapy is a collaborative process between myself and my clients with the overarching goals of improving relationships, emotional regulation, self-understanding, adjustment, and life satisfaction.

I work with children, adolescents, and adult clients through the use of individual, couples, and family therapy. I frequently incorporate the use of the Brainspotting method to help clients of various ages process through a wide range of highly stressful, activating and traumatic experiences that prevent them from fully engaging in aspects of their life. I also have been trained in Collaborative Practice; information regarding this approach to divorce can be found at www.CollabAtlanta.com.

For my adult clients, therapeutic issues typically focus on depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationship concerns, self-esteem and self-worth, communication difficulties, marital/relationship discord, and life transitions. Therapy focuses on identifying a client’s own strengths and challenges, empowering him/her to cope more effectively with life’s struggles, and improving relationships and overall functioning through insight, self-awareness, and healthy decision-making skills and coping resources.

With my children (ages 5 and older) and adolescent clients, common issues include divorce, depression, anxiety, OCD, mood dysregulation, behavioral difficulties, ADHD, family conflict, school performance issues, and social difficulties, such as peer conflict, bullying, and poor social skills in general. I believe that an important component in working with children and adolescents is the inclusion of the family, as I believe that making changes within the family system is the foundation to therapeutic progress. Family therapy typically centers on improving family communication and relationships, assisting parents in coping with their child’s emotional or behavioral issues at home, and building healthy boundaries, expectations, and family roles.

In addition to therapy, I am experienced in conducting psychological and psychoeducational evaluations. Such evaluations are a tool for identifying a client’s cognitive and academic skills, assessing for learning disabilities and developmental delays, and obtaining information regarding a client’s mental health. Evaluations can yield a wealth of information to help with treatment and educational planning and the identification of appropriate interventions.

I received my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology and my M.Ed. in School Counseling from The University of Georgia. Prior to earning my doctorate, I worked as an elementary school counselor. I have been in private practice in the Atlanta area since 2006. In addition to private practice, I have been an adjunct instructor at Georgia State University with the Department of Counseling and Psychological Services and served on the board of the Division of Women and Girls for the Georgia Psychological Association.

I look forward to meeting you and the opportunity to help you address the barriers or concerns that are interfering with your happiness and ability to live life to the fullest!

I believe that creating a warm, safe, and respectful environment is pertinent to establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship with my clients and helping them to achieve their therapy goals. I strongly believe that therapy is a collaborative process between myself and my clients with the overarching goals of improving relationships, emotional regulation, self-understanding, adjustment, and life satisfaction.

I work with children, adolescents, and adult clients through the use of individual, couples, and family therapy. I frequently incorporate the use of the Brainspotting method to help clients of various ages process through a wide range of highly stressful, activating and traumatic experiences that prevent them from fully engaging in aspects of their life. I also have been trained in Collaborative Practice; information regarding this approach to divorce can be found at www.CollabAtlanta.com.

For my adult clients, therapeutic issues typically focus on depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationship concerns, self-esteem and self-worth, communication difficulties, marital/relationship discord, and life transitions. Therapy focuses on identifying a client’s own strengths and challenges, empowering him/her to cope more effectively with life’s struggles, and improving relationships and overall functioning through insight, self-awareness, and healthy decision-making skills and coping resources.

With my children (ages 5 and older) and adolescent clients, common issues include divorce, depression, anxiety, OCD, mood dysregulation, behavioral difficulties, ADHD, family conflict, school performance issues, and social difficulties, such as peer conflict, bullying, and poor social skills in general. I believe that an important component in working with children and adolescents is the inclusion of the family, as I believe that making changes within the family system is the foundation to therapeutic progress. Family therapy typically centers on improving family communication and relationships, assisting parents in coping with their child’s emotional or behavioral issues at home, and building healthy boundaries, expectations, and family roles.

In addition to therapy, I am experienced in conducting psychological and psychoeducational evaluations. Such evaluations are a tool for identifying a client’s cognitive and academic skills, assessing for learning disabilities and developmental delays, and obtaining information regarding a client’s mental health. Evaluations can yield a wealth of information to help with treatment and educational planning and the identification of appropriate interventions.

I received my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology and my M.Ed. in School Counseling from The University of Georgia. Prior to earning my doctorate, I worked as an elementary school counselor. I have been in private practice in the Atlanta area since 2006. In addition to private practice, I have been an adjunct instructor at Georgia State University with the Department of Counseling and Psychological Services and served on the board of the Division of Women and Girls for the Georgia Psychological Association.

I look forward to meeting you and the opportunity to help you address the barriers or concerns that are interfering with your happiness and ability to live life to the fullest!

Anna Beilman

APC, NCC

About

Whether you are struggling with anxiety, trauma, or addiction, I can offer you a safe place to heal and grow. Looking into therapy is a brave first step in taking control of your life, and no matter what you are going through, I’ll meet you with compassion and respect. I believe my holistic approach to treating the mind, body, and soul—something I am very passionate about—can help you discover your best self.
I believe the ability to form close attachments and maintain satisfying relationships is at the core of a fulfilling life. That’s why I often work through a cognitive behavioral/emotional attachment lens, utilizing the therapeutic relationship to foster trust and connection. And because trauma is often at the root of many people’s pain, I’m also trained in EMDR.
My mission is to help you feel safe so you can tell your story, heal past emotional wounds, and find relief in the present. I have experience in various mental health settings, including residential, partial hospitalization, and individual therapy. As a trauma-informed therapist, I love working with adults dealing with anxiety, addiction, and trauma.

Whether you are struggling with anxiety, trauma, or addiction, I can offer you a safe place to heal and grow. Looking into therapy is a brave first step in taking control of your life, and no matter what you are going through, I’ll meet you with compassion and respect. I believe my holistic approach to treating the mind, body, and soul—something I am very passionate about—can help you discover your best self.
I believe the ability to form close attachments and maintain satisfying relationships is at the core of a fulfilling life. That’s why I often work through a cognitive behavioral/emotional attachment lens, utilizing the therapeutic relationship to foster trust and connection. And because trauma is often at the root of many people’s pain, I’m also trained in EMDR.
My mission is to help you feel safe so you can tell your story, heal past emotional wounds, and find relief in the present. I have experience in various mental health settings, including residential, partial hospitalization, and individual therapy. As a trauma-informed therapist, I love working with adults dealing with anxiety, addiction, and trauma.

Candace Nino

Registered Associate MFT

About

My name is Candace Nino, I am a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. I graduated from California Baptist University with a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology. I have had the opportunity to work with the young adolescent population to provide school based therapy for the last four years. I have also gained clinical experience working with special education students who have faced emotional disturbances that impede their academic functioning. I have had the privilege of treating clients who struggled with depression, generalized anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder and personality disorders. My theoretical orientation is Personal Centered Therapy and occasionally I utilize an eclectic approach to accommodate the clients individual needs and implement appropriate techniques that are most beneficial for the client. I provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families looking for additional social emotional support.

I aspire to assist clients in their moments of triumph as well as defeat, self-discovery, and understanding. I emphasize clients strengths and provide a safe environment to explore areas of growth and turmoil. My ultimate goal is to set the client up for success in achieving the best version of themselves and to sustain healthy functioning and symptom management. It would be a privilege to accompany you on your therapeutic journey.

My name is Candace Nino, I am a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. I graduated from California Baptist University with a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology. I have had the opportunity to work with the young adolescent population to provide school based therapy for the last four years. I have also gained clinical experience working with special education students who have faced emotional disturbances that impede their academic functioning. I have had the privilege of treating clients who struggled with depression, generalized anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder and personality disorders. My theoretical orientation is Personal Centered Therapy and occasionally I utilize an eclectic approach to accommodate the clients individual needs and implement appropriate techniques that are most beneficial for the client. I provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families looking for additional social emotional support.

I aspire to assist clients in their moments of triumph as well as defeat, self-discovery, and understanding. I emphasize clients strengths and provide a safe environment to explore areas of growth and turmoil. My ultimate goal is to set the client up for success in achieving the best version of themselves and to sustain healthy functioning and symptom management. It would be a privilege to accompany you on your therapeutic journey.

Catherine Gouge

APC, NCC

About

Catherine attended the University of North Georgia both as an undergraduate and graduate student, earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and her Master of Science in Counseling. She is an Associate Professional Counselor as well as a National Certified Counselor. Catherine received specialized training in addictions as a part of her program, which qualified her to receive the title of a Certified Addictions Counselor – Level 1. Catherine is also a member of the American Counseling Association. She has worked with children, teenagers, and adults on a variety of presenting issues. Catherine has a desire to help those struggling with anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, as well as those impacted by substance abuse. She is particularly interested in helping those who are struggling to find meaning in their lives and joining alongside them in their spiritual journey. She seeks to meet clients where they are in their life circumstances and to help them accomplish their therapy goals. Catherine’s hope is to use her therapeutic bond with her clients to assist them in encountering and accepting themselves fully, leading them to experience authentic and free lives. She also utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques as well as a Family Systems approach. Catherine is trained in Motivational Interviewing and incorporates it into therapy at different stages to assess for and encourage client progress.

Catherine attended the University of North Georgia both as an undergraduate and graduate student, earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and her Master of Science in Counseling. She is an Associate Professional Counselor as well as a National Certified Counselor. Catherine received specialized training in addictions as a part of her program, which qualified her to receive the title of a Certified Addictions Counselor – Level 1. Catherine is also a member of the American Counseling Association. She has worked with children, teenagers, and adults on a variety of presenting issues. Catherine has a desire to help those struggling with anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, as well as those impacted by substance abuse. She is particularly interested in helping those who are struggling to find meaning in their lives and joining alongside them in their spiritual journey. She seeks to meet clients where they are in their life circumstances and to help them accomplish their therapy goals. Catherine’s hope is to use her therapeutic bond with her clients to assist them in encountering and accepting themselves fully, leading them to experience authentic and free lives. She also utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques as well as a Family Systems approach. Catherine is trained in Motivational Interviewing and incorporates it into therapy at different stages to assess for and encourage client progress.

Dañel Whitehead

LICSW, LCSW

About

My education has taught me to meet my clients where they are. It's your world, and I am here to assist! In a non-judgmental and confidential atmosphere, your progression is a priority. Working together, we will identify the issues and/or triggers that you may be experiencing. We will also identify strategies and ways to overcome, work through, and move forward from those stumbling blocks. With a listening ear, I will support and encourage as necessary. I aim to push individuals to their fullest potential. Though it may be challenging, I will be with you on your growth journey. Even though loved ones may surround us, sometimes that is not enough, and that's okay! Sometimes, we need to reach out and ask for more support and assistance. That's okay, too! This is why I am here.

My entire work career since graduating has been centered around mental health. I work with adults, older adults, families and couples. While in both my undergraduate and graduate programs, I completed my field placement in Detroit public and charter schools while working with nonprofit agencies in the city. I have experience going into the homes of clients as well as working in an inpatient hospital. 

I specialize in Depressive Disorders, stress, low self-esteem, Anxiety Disorders, coping skills, & more. Specialized to meet your needs, I utilize therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy.

My education has taught me to meet my clients where they are. It's your world, and I am here to assist! In a non-judgmental and confidential atmosphere, your progression is a priority. Working together, we will identify the issues and/or triggers that you may be experiencing. We will also identify strategies and ways to overcome, work through, and move forward from those stumbling blocks. With a listening ear, I will support and encourage as necessary. I aim to push individuals to their fullest potential. Though it may be challenging, I will be with you on your growth journey. Even though loved ones may surround us, sometimes that is not enough, and that's okay! Sometimes, we need to reach out and ask for more support and assistance. That's okay, too! This is why I am here.

My entire work career since graduating has been centered around mental health. I work with adults, older adults, families and couples. While in both my undergraduate and graduate programs, I completed my field placement in Detroit public and charter schools while working with nonprofit agencies in the city. I have experience going into the homes of clients as well as working in an inpatient hospital. 

I specialize in Depressive Disorders, stress, low self-esteem, Anxiety Disorders, coping skills, & more. Specialized to meet your needs, I utilize therapeutic interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy.

Amelia Thomas

APC, NCC

About

Amelia Thomas is an Associate Professional Counselor (APC007724) specializing in working with women on anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, self-esteem, identity development, young adulthood transition, and relationship concerns (including unhealthy patterns and covert narcissistic abuse). Amelia is inspired by helping women recognize their worthiness through the healing of past wounds and the strengthening of their authentic selves.

Amelia also enjoys working with college aged and young adult women as they navigate the challenges that come along with burgeoning independence, changing relationships, and major life transitions.

Amelia has worked in many settings, including a non-profit serving survivors of domestic and sexual violence, an emergency housing shelter, and a University counseling center. Her professional and personal background has led her to develop a strong desire to assist individuals in healing from the profound pain that traumatic experiences can leave behind. In helping survivors free themselves from old, ineffective patterns, Amelia seeks to support them in cultivating resilience, connection, and meaning in their lives.

Amelia obtained a B.S. in Sociology from Appalachian State University and an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mercer University. As an APC, Amelia works under the Direction and Supervision of Mazi Robinson, MS, LPC, CPCS, NCC (LPC 006005, CPCS 1433) and Amy Robbins (LPC 3834, CPCS 83).

Born and raised in Atlanta, Amelia loves exploring the city, attending live music concerts, and cooking. She also enjoys going on outdoor adventures with her family, friends, and two rescue dogs.

Amelia Thomas is an Associate Professional Counselor (APC007724) specializing in working with women on anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, self-esteem, identity development, young adulthood transition, and relationship concerns (including unhealthy patterns and covert narcissistic abuse). Amelia is inspired by helping women recognize their worthiness through the healing of past wounds and the strengthening of their authentic selves.

Amelia also enjoys working with college aged and young adult women as they navigate the challenges that come along with burgeoning independence, changing relationships, and major life transitions.

Amelia has worked in many settings, including a non-profit serving survivors of domestic and sexual violence, an emergency housing shelter, and a University counseling center. Her professional and personal background has led her to develop a strong desire to assist individuals in healing from the profound pain that traumatic experiences can leave behind. In helping survivors free themselves from old, ineffective patterns, Amelia seeks to support them in cultivating resilience, connection, and meaning in their lives.

Amelia obtained a B.S. in Sociology from Appalachian State University and an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mercer University. As an APC, Amelia works under the Direction and Supervision of Mazi Robinson, MS, LPC, CPCS, NCC (LPC 006005, CPCS 1433) and Amy Robbins (LPC 3834, CPCS 83).

Born and raised in Atlanta, Amelia loves exploring the city, attending live music concerts, and cooking. She also enjoys going on outdoor adventures with her family, friends, and two rescue dogs.