Marietta Counseling for Children & Adults

Providing Professional Therapy Services for Children ages 2-18, Families, Couples, and Individual Adults

Standard of Care

All therapists at Marietta Counseling for Children & Adults (MCCA) are licensed in the State of Georgia or working toward full licensure under supervision and direction and if working with children under the age of 11 all therapists at MCCA are either Registered Play Therapists (RPT) or on track to complete certification for RPT. All therapists are active members in their respective professional organizations. Each therapist has obtained extensive training, education and experience in various therapeutic techniques and philosophies before developing unique and successful methods for helping people. All therapists participate in ongoing continuing education to be assured they are on the cutting edge of the ever–changing field of counseling and psychotherapy services.

All MCCA therapists have a specialty in working with varying age ranges from age two through late adulthood. Most all of our therapists are trained and experienced in working within the dynamics of family and marital relationships. As a group, all are able to meet the needs of all ages.

In addition, MCCA offers therapists who counsel people of all religions and cultural backgrounds. We pride ourselves on serving the needs of a diverse community, providing therapy for families and individuals who are Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, Muslim, Agnostic and/or Atheist. We welcome any and all people to reach out to us for assistance and we will find a therapist that can best fit the needs of every client.

Our Therapists


Cecelia Myers, LPC, NCC, Owner & Director

Cecelia Myers

Cecelia Myers, LPC, CPCS, NCC is the Owner and Director of Marietta Counseling for Children and Adults, providing counseling support for children, adolescents, and families. Cecelia provides play therapy and uses directive and nondirective techniques to best suit the needs of each individual client. Cecelia involves families in the therapeutic process and provides guidance on parenting believing that an integrated approach with children and their families is essential. She has rich experience providing support for children whose parents are experiencing or have experienced divorce or separation. She also has extensive experience in social skills training. Cecelia also provides support for children and adolescents experiencing anger, anxiety/OCD and difficulties due to ADHD. She has a passion for children and enjoys watching them develop emotionally and cognitively through individual and group therapy. Cecelia is also a trained Parent Coordinator, assisting parents in making decisions and developing a parenting plan after or during divorce. Cecelia is on track to be a Registered Play Therapist and is an active member of the Licensed Professional Counseling Association of GA, The Association for Play Therapy, and the GA Association for Play Therapy. She can be reached at 770-971-9311 ext. 1.




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Suzie Amacker, LPC, NCC

Suzie Amacker, LPC, NCC Suzie Amacker, MA, LPC, NCC is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Nationally Certified Counselor and a School Counselor.

My approach to psychotherapy is practical and interactive, providing the support and insight to help you resolve current issues and historical patterns. Through empathy and direct communication, I seek to illuminate the internal world of my clients, while helping each individual connect to others and the world at large in a meaningful way. My practice combines traditional and contemporary approaches, drawing from multiple styles, techniques, and perspectives to integrate what will be the most comprehensive approach for your needs. In addition, my 20 plus years as a educator has prepared me to work with parents and families to address school and life problems. The focus of my interactive approach is to help you, your child, your family or couples, build upon their strengths in order to fulfill their potential, actualize their dreams, and achieve their life goals. For more information you may call me at 678-595-4727.

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Susan Kerley, MS, LAPC, NCC

Susan Kerley, BS

Susan Kerley is a Georgia Licensed Associate Professional Counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor. Susan graduated Summa Cum Laude from Capella University with a Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling. Susan earned her Bachelor's Degree in Communications from the State University of New York at Brockport, also Summa Cum Laude, and is an inducted member of Chi Sigma Iota, Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society International.

Susan draws upon an integrated and holistic approach to treatment in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are the primary orientations used in counseling adults, teens, and families. When working with children, Susan utilizes a combination of directive and nondirective play therapy and Adlerian play therapy approaches, depending on each child's specific needs. Expressive, creative, and experiential therapies such as Gestalt, art, and narrative therapy are also incorporated based on the specific needs and goals of the client. Parenting support and training are an important component of treatment services and available for parents of elementary, middle, and high school students, as well as parents of young adults.

Additionally, Susan has 15 years of experience in the corporate business realm and is able to integrate this experience to help others with workplace issues, stress management stemming from less than ideal workplace environments, and career development plans.

Treatment services include:

Depression
Anxiety
Adjustment/life transitions/divorce
Emotional regulation (including anger and self-injury)
Parenting training and support
Gifted children, adults, and families
Communication and interpersonal relationship skills
Self image/confidence
Stress management
Men's issues
Women's issues
Workplace problems and career development
ADHD and behavioral disorders
Developmental disabilities/autism spectrum/Asperger's

Susan works with diverse lifestyles and family structures and aims to provide a safe, supportive environment for all clients. GLBT clients are welcome, as are all religious and spiritual beliefs. My goal is to work within your framework of values and beliefs to help you learn new ways to cope with challenges both now and in the future.

You can reach Susan directly by calling 770-971-9311 ext. 4 or via email at susankerley@comcast.net. Office hours are Tuesday through Friday.

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Amanda L. Marks, LPC

Amanda Marks, LAPC Amanda has a bachelor's degree from the University of Georgia in Psychology and a Masters Degree in Psychology (Professional Counseling Specialty) from Argosy University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia and is a certified Prepare-Enrich facilitator which is developed specifically for premarital counseling and for couples looking to enrich their marriage. She has extensive experience with self-harm, eating disorders, self-image/compassion, depression, anxiety, and adjustment issues. She is also a trained Parent Coordinator, working with high-conflict couples in developing parenting plans while going through a divorce. She has worked with the Department of Family and Children Services and the Department of Juvenile Justice providing family assessments, parent training, individual therapy with children, adolescents, and adults, and assisting with psychological evaluations. She has worked in hospitals and on inpatient behavioral health units, with adolescents and young adults. She has worked with couples going through the adoption process and with birth mothers contemplating the decision to parent their child or place them up for adoption. Amanda is eclectic in her approach in working with adolescents, couples, and adults pulling from a myriad of various therapeutic models to specifically develop a treatment plan to help you obtain your goals! She is undergoing additional training focusing on Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She is passionate and sincere about helping you overcome your struggles and providing a safe place for you to express yourself without being judged. Her blog is at www.journeyintothearena.blogspot.com.   Amanda can be reached at 770-971-9311 ext 3 or by emailing her at counseloramandamarks@gmail.com

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Anthony Pearson, EdS, LPC, NCC

Anthony Pearson, EdS, LPC, NCC

Anthony Pearson, EdS, LPC, NCC is a licensed professional counselor and is on track to be a Registered Play Therapist. He has experience as both a school counselor and a therapist in private practice providing services for children and adolescents. He believes that all children have the ability to rise above challenges given the right support. With a background in Solution Focused and Adlerian Therapy, Anthony incorporates an eclectic style in which he seeks to use the most effective, salient methods for making the greatest impact for his clients. While children come to therapy with presenting issues, they also come with dynamic resources, strengths, and abilities. By incorporating each child's individual talents with their personalized goals, Anthony will help families and children strive for success.

Anthony was the Cobb County Elementary School Counselor of the Year in 2009-2012 and the CSCA Writer of the Year. He was selected as a Top 10 National Finalist for American School Counselor of the Year for 2010-2011. In 2011-2012 he was selected as the Region III Georgia Elementary School Counselor of the Year.

In addition to counseling, Anthony enjoys writing and has published two books. He is a published author of books for professionals and for children. You may reach Anthony at 770-971-9311 ext. 3

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Amy West, LPC

Amy West LPCAmy is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families using a systemic and internal family systems approach. Amy believes, "when a child struggles the whole family struggles." Prior to joining Marietta Counseling for Children & Adults, Amy has worked in variety of settings including community mental health, and local state agencies. She has also worked in the school system as an elementary school counselor. In her years of experience she has also facilitated parenting classes, presented workshops on ADHD, Stress Management, and Bullying Prevention. She also has led many counseling groups on social skills, anger management, and self-esteem.

Amy has extensive background in dealing with a variety of presenting problems including behavioral and emotional disorders. She works closely with children that are having school problems, issues of trauma, anxiety and depression. In counseling Amy uses a variety of therapeutic approaches including Play/Art Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy. She also counsels individually with women who are experiencing life transitions, mood disorders, or who wish to improve their parenting, and life skills. Amy tailors her approach to meet the needs of every client. She will work with you to explore new techniques for bringing new clarity to your life and for changing behaviors that may be preventing you from feeling successful and happy.

Amy continuously participates in continuing education to provide the highest quality service and most current and effective interventions for children, parents, and families. She is an active member and volunteer with the Licensed Professional Counselor Association of Georgia (LPCA). Amy is also working to obtain her Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credential. Amy can be reached at 770-971-9311 ext. 9 or by email abw739@yahoo.com.

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Emily Weissman, LAPC

Anthony Pearson, EdS, LPC, NCC

Emily is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor who provides counseling to children, teens, and parenting support for their families. Emily earned her Masters in Clinical Psychology at the Georgia School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. She is trained in a number of therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral and client-centered therapy, play therapy, and creative counseling modalities. Emily tailors her approach to the individual client believing that we are each unique beings with unique strengths, backgrounds, and personalities. She strives to create a safe, nurturing and nonjudgmental environment where clients can improve their self-awareness, strengthen their relationships, and accomplish their goals.

Emily specializes in working with children, adolescents and their families with parenting and behavioral problems, childhood trauma, anxiety and depression, and developmental disabilities (Autism Spectrum Disorders). She especially enjoys helping parents to reduce their stress levels by teaching them positive parenting and behavior management techniques.

Emily is a member of the Association for Play Therapy (APT), the Georgia Association for Play Therapy (GAPT) and is working to become a Registered Play Therapist (RPT). She is also an active member with The Licensed Professional Counselors Association of Georgia (LPCA). Emily can be reached at 770-971-9311 ext. 9

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Stacey Cohen, LPC

Stacey Cohen, LPC

Stacey Cohen is a licensed professional counselor and art educator with 18 years' experience in commercial and fine art, art education, and psychology. After graduating from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, Stacey began a full time career as a commercial illustrator and decorative painter later to combine art education and her most current pursuit and interest in the healing arts.

Stacey earned a Masters degree in professional counseling at Argosy University in 2005, intent on combining her passions for art, wellness, and personal growth. She specializes in utilizing art and expressive therapy as a therapeutic modality in conjunction with Humanistic psychology. Stacey's expertise includes working with people struggling with dual diagnosis and substance dependence, mood and thought disorders, depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, trauma/PTSD, life transitions, grief/loss, adult children of addicts, LGBTQ related issues, and spirituality for the older adolescent, young adult, and adult populations. Stacey is currently taking new clients and works with individuals, couples, and families alike. Stacey has expanded her counseling modality to internet video counseling on a case by case basis for those traveling or away at school.

Stacey's recent past experience includes running an Evening Intensive Outpatient substance abuse program for adolescents at a local private psychiatric hospital. Stacey is an active trainer, group facilitator of a non-profit foundation where she does trauma work with veterans and civilians who have lived through war. Stacey is a also the founder and creative director of a multidisciplinary creative art studio using art as a vehicle for transformation and personal growth holding both classes and workshops throughout the Metropolitan Atlanta area. With a love of cultural and language studies, Stacey enjoys her pursuit of the henna arts, indigenous natural healing practices, and is an avid student of the Spanish language. Stacey is an active member of the Jung Society of Atlanta.

Stacey can be reached at 770-971-9311 ext 3.

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Mary Stuart Neill, M.Ed., LPC

Stacey Cohen, LPC

"We are made to persist. That's how we find out who we are." Tobias Wolfe-Writer

Mary Stuart Neill, M.Ed., LPC, has been living in the spirit of this quote, refining her journey from teacher to school counselor to play therapist. She discovered along the way that the establishment of positive regard in the therapeutic relationship is the single greatest agent of change. Once this relationship is established, the client is able to heal in a safe and nurturing environment. It is through play, the language of children, that the child is able to express and process feelings about what is happening in his life. This provides the platform for a corrective emotional experience.

An experienced individual and family psychotherapist, Mary Stuart's humanistic approach follows Carl Rogers' basic tenets of employing genuineness, acceptance and empathy with her clients. Her dedication to the helping profession is apparent as she has over 15 years of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor and more than 30 years total experience working with children, adolescents and families. Mary Stuart has worked in a variety of settings including schools, residential treatment facilities, therapeutic foster care, adoption agencies, and outpatient clinics. She is an experienced speaker and trainer for mental health agencies and parent groups.

Mary Stuart is skilled in child centered play therapy, directive play therapy, filial play therapy, sand tray therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, and expressive therapies. She specializes in the treatment of spectrum disorders, ADHD, anger, mood disorders, depression, PTSD and trauma, divorce, anxiety, parenting, family therapy, self esteem, shyness and social anxiety, adjustment issues as well as adoption related issues. A Certified XPress Yourself Counselor; Mary Stuart runs play and art based groups for children who have been adopted.

Mary Stuart is on track to become a Registered Play Therapist and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. She is also completing training to become a Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor. Mary Stuart remains credentialed as a Certified Teacher and Certified School Counselor in the State of Georgia.

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Karen Zimmerman, (LCSW)

Karen Zimmerman

Karen Zimmerman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who received her master's degree in Social Work from Fordham University. Karen has 12 years of extensive skill and training in working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings. Karen is a member of NASW (National Association of Social Workers), certified in Nonviolent Crisis Intervention, and is on track to becoming a registered play therapist. Karen has extensive knowledge of treating anxiety and mood disorders has been effective in working closely with both individuals and families that have been impacted by emotional, physical, or sexual trauma. Karen provides individual, family and couples counseling as well as play therapy to address areas of ADHD, anger management, self-esteem, social skills, oppositional behaviors, self-injurious behaviors, grief, domestic violence, substance use and divorce. In addition, Karen has provided supervision, support, encouragement, and training of clinical skills to LMSW's and LAPC professionals as well as education and training in assessment and diagnosis. It is Karen's goal to combine her range of experience with her ability to be a compassionate and enthusiastic therapist to assist clients and families in making positive changes in their lives.

Karen can be reached at 770-971-9311 ext 8.

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Ruth Chancey Bowen, EdS, LPC, NCC

Stacey Cohen, LPC

Ruth is a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. She has a Master's degree and a Specialist in Education degree in Professional Counseling from Georgia State University. After working in private practice and community mental health settings, Ruth decided to pursue certification in school counseling, as well.

Ruth has clinical experience with all ages, but specializes in working with children, adolescents, and their families. Ruth has extensive training in play therapy, and believes that play is an essential component of effective mental health counseling for children. Ruth is a strong proponent for filial therapy, or Child Parent Relationship Therapy, in which parents are taught skills in order to enhance the parent child relationship. Ruth is on track for becoming a Registered Play Therapist and is a member of the Association for Play Therapy and the Georgia Association for Play Therapy.

Ruth approaches counseling from a client centered and Adlerian perspective, and enjoys using creative modalities with her clients. Ruth feels that collaboration is necessary for effective counseling and views the involvement of the family as a key piece in therapy. Ruth strives to create a safe and welcoming environment for her clients, and builds a relationship based on trust and empathy. Ruth has experience with a wide variety of mental health issues, including child trauma, behavior issues at home or school, anxiety, depression, social skills, grief, and self esteem. Ruth can be reached at 770.971.9311 ext 2.

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Erica Gregory, LMFT

Stacey Cohen, LPC

Erica Gregory, LMFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She graduated from Mercer School of Medicine with a Masters in Family Therapy. She has been in practice since 2009 specializing in Couples Therapy and Play Therapy for Children. Erica strives to utilize genuine acceptance and fosters hope to empower you to face life’s challenges.

Erica enjoys working with couples by assisting them to be open, attuned, and responsive to each other allowing them to reestablish their emotional connection. She believes that a strong family is built upon a healthy and loving parental relationship. She utilizes play therapy to work with children. She is working toward earning her RPT (registered play therapist) certification. Her work with children focuses on trauma, loss, divorce, adoption, anxiety, and acting out behavior. She has practiced within the school system and creates a holistic approach to treatment by collaboratively working with parents and teachers.

Furthermore, Erica has extensive experience working with mental illness such as Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. She works with both the client and their family. Erica recognizes the impact our family has on our daily lives and incorporates family therapy in treatment.

Office Hours: 

Monday 12pm-9pm. Wednesday 11am- 9pm. Thursday 4pm-9pm. & Every Other Saturday 9-1pm.

My last session starts at 8pm for your after work & school convenience (12pm on Saturdays).

To contact Erica call 770-971-9311 ext 6.

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Scott Pennington, MA, LAPC

Scott Pennington

Scott graduated from Liberty University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Masters Degree in Professional Counseling. Utilizing a Client-Centered approach, he maintains an optimistic perspective of individuals and believes that a person's behaviors, healthy or unhealthy, are an attempt to cope with life's challenges. While providing an environment of acceptance, respect and understanding, Scott incorporates directive and nondirective techniques that will promote personal growth and lasting life change. Scott's extensive experience working with adolescents, individuals, couples and families who are coping with anxiety, depressive disorders, anger issues, abuse, and chemical dependency provides a base of knowledge for a greater understanding regarding the devastating impact addictive and emotional disorder can have individually and collectively.

Scott is a second career individual who is able to integrate his knowledge and experience of working for a Fortune 500 Company with the challenges and pressures men face balancing careers, relationships, marriages and families. As a certified Prepare-Enrich facilitator, Scott works with pre-marital couples to build a healthy foundation for their lives together, and couples who want to improve their marital relationships. Throughout his career, he has lead parent-teen communication workshops, Celebrate Recovery, Men's support groups and taught Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Scott is certified in Aggressive Replacement Therapy (ART) to help individuals with the social skills, anger management and moral reasoning attributes which negatively challenges interpersonal relationships. In an effort to provide optimal care for his clients, Scott continuously seeks to increase his knowledge and improve his therapeutic approach. He is currently undergoing additional Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) training and maintains compliance with the state of Georgia's requirements for Associate Professional Counselors.

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Katrina Lokken - Psy.D. - Psychologist contracted with Marietta Counseling to provide psychological testing services

Kristen Wedge Dr. Lokken is a clinical psychologist specializing in psychological evaluations. She earned both her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology and her Doctorate of Clinical Psychology from the Georgia School of Professional Psychology with a concentration on children and families. During her training, she worked in the area of pediatric psychology, with a focus on assessment and treatment of children with chronic illnesses. She has worked with children who have Autistic Spectrum Disorders, trauma victimization, learning disorders and developmental delays, and severe behavioral and emotional disorders. She has worked within inpatient (psychiatric and medical hospitals) and outpatient settings. Additionally, Dr. Lokken received specialized training in the assessment and treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders during her APA-accredited internship. Since being licensed in the State of Georgia, Dr. Lokken has assessed individuals involved with the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) and the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS). She has developed and conducted assessments in the areas of substance abuse, parental fitness, and custody disputes with adults. Dr. Lokken evaluates individuals of multiple ages, from adults to young children, for problems with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and general emotional concerns. Her recent experiences include supervising and training the psychological assessment team at a Metro-Atlanta based private practice. She currently conducts psychoeducational evaluations within the Atlanta Public School System charter schools, as well as participates in ongoing IEP meetings. She consults with and educates parents of children with emotional and behavioral difficulties. Dr. Lokken is a member of the Georgia Psychological Association and the American Psychological Association. To obtain additional information or to speak with Dr. Lokken, please call 678-820-8386 and her email is katrinalokkenpsyd@gmail.com.

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Johanna Wendell, LAPC

Kristen Wedge

Johanna is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor, who received her Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Georgia State University. Over the past six years, she has provided individual and group therapy at Atlanta Center for Eating Disorders and Emory University's counseling center, counseled inpatients with severe mental illness at Grady Hospital, provided counseling at the GSU community mental health clinic, and conducted comprehensive neuropsychological assessments for leaning and personality disorders at the Regents Center for Learning Disorders. Johanna has been practicing in private settings in Marietta and Buckhead, GA for the past year, providing individual counseling and psychological evaluations to adolescents and adults with an array of presenting concerns, particularly eating disorders, body dysmorphia, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship/marital concerns, identity concerns, low self-esteem, and ADHD.

Johanna’s goal is to help you achieve your goals. Collaboratively working together, she will help you to target and treat what is negatively impacting your life and increase your holistic well-being. She utilizes a variety of theoretical orientations contingent upon her client's individual needs. Johanna has extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness and meditation. She also provides counseling from Christian, Family Systems, and Psychodynamic orientations. Johanna specializes in the treatment of adolescents and adults with eating disorders, body dysmorphia, anxiety disorders (OCD, panic disorder, social phobia, GAD), low self-esteem, depression, identity concerns, difficulties with assertiveness, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, relationship/marital difficulties, addictions, insomnia, and grief. Much of her counseling has also focused on replacing maladaptive with adaptive coping techniques and improving problematic relationship patterns, parenting, social skills, assertive communication, and anger/rage difficulties. Johanna also engages in life coaching and guidance counseling for those who would like assistance with present and future life (e.g., career, relationship, education, spirituality, finance, etc.) goals.

Johanna looks forward to taking part in your life journey of self-improvement and witnessing the positive transformations that take place. To learn more about Johanna, please visit johannawendell.com. Johanna practices under the direction of Cecelia Myers, LPC and the clinical supervision of Faith Arkel, LPC.

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