Therapists
Shirley Boone-Sanford, PhD
Licensed Psychologist
Clinical Director
I understand that every life has challenges, and these challenges can be compounded by life circumstances (e.g, parenting, loss, relationships, health concerns, work issues). Thus, I provide a variety of psychological services to help overcome life challenges. In my work with clients my goal is to help them create meaningful lives by achieving lasting results. I customize my approach with each client to meet their individual needs and personality in a way that is comfortable and productive for them. I go beyond psychological language to address the real concerns of my clients in an easily understood manner. I am dedicated to helping my clients heal from past and current difficulties, grow as individuals, and fulfill their true potential of living healthy, happy and rewarding lives.
I create a comfortable environment for clients to explore themselves and their lives in an open and honest way through my warmth, sincerity, accepting manner, and sense of humor. I accomplish this by:
- helping clients get to the source of issues by providing support and practical feedback;
- inciting the identification and change of negative patterns, beliefs, and feelings into more positive and accurate ones; and
- providing a warm, accepting, and interactive environment that encourages emotional security so goals are achieved, issues are resolve, and new tools and strategies are developed to manage daily life.
Because I understand that who we are is more than a summary of our actions and past, I strive to meet my clients where they are and help them get to where they want to be. My approach to therapy stresses the importance of the way we think and how that impacts how we feel and act. It is therapy that is directed at changing one’s thoughts which in turn changes feelings and behavior. It is especially useful in treating anxiety and depression, and typically involves an educational component with exercises done as homework.
I specialize in working with women and girls with all aspects of their lives, including ADHD/ADD. Since completing my graduate studies at Southern Illinois University more than a decade ago, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of different settings.
Now providing psychotherapy with ASPPB E. Passport for PSYPACT – Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) – in over 30 states.
Brittany Hawkshead, MS
Psychometrist
I graduated with my Masters in Psychology from UGA after receiving my Bachelors degree from Auburn University—War Eagle! In terms of testing and evaluations, I have experience of testing and evaluations children and adults of all ages and with a variety of concerns (e.g, brain injury, dementia, medical issues, mood disorders, ADHD, learning disabilities), but particularly enjoy neuropsychological testing with adolescents and older adults. In my free time, I enjoy baking, collecting cookbooks, reading, watching baseball, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.
Lisa Bell, BA
Counselor Intern
I believe that taking care of our mental wellness is essential for living a healthy life. I am passionate about helping adolescents and adults through life’s emotional challenges. My approach is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where individuals can feel comfortable and heard.
I work with individuals to help them overcome feelings of anxiety and depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In sessions, I utilize various techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy, inner child work, support, and self-confidence building. I will work with you to establish healthy patterns and coping strategies.
I enjoy being with my family, reading, exercising and traveling in my spare time. My favorite things are sunshine and being near the beach!
Siva Chen, BA
Counselor Intern
Respecting and supporting people with unconditional positive regard is one of my core beliefs. With work experience in both China and the United States, as well as in a global setting, I can understand mental challenges via a cultural lens and strive to support my clients in discovering their own truth and path.
My orientation is a blend of psychodynamic, coaching, existential, and person-centered therapy. People, I believe, will take responsibility, and find significance if they are fully accepted and respected. My focus includes depression, anxiety, stress management, grief and loss, relationship issues, and career counseling. I am being supervised by Dr. Boone-Sanford and am now accepting new clients at a reduced rate.
In my free time I enjoy traveling and meeting people, as well as exploring nature and discovering extraordinary stories from ordinary life.
Julia Waller, MSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW )
I am a thoughtful, dedicated psychotherapist, with over 15 years of counseling and therapeutic experience. I obtained my Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from Stonybrook University of New York. My approach to treatment is solution-focused client-centered. My specialty is in women’s issues and trauma related disorders including major depression, anxiety, acute stress disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. My desire is to help you reach your goals using all the tools I can provide.
I also have a passion for overall health and wellness, which is noticeable in the way I approach treatment. For instance, in our initial meeting and ongoing meetings we will talk about your sleep and eating habits that may be impacting your mood. I can also help you understand how emotions are moving through your body. My life purpose is to help individuals and families connect with themselves and recognize their unique gifts. This is achieved through the use of a holistic approach.
I am particularly strong in building rapport with clients in a compassionate collaborate way. Being born and raised in a major city of New York cultivated my appreciation for all races, ethnicities, cultures and belief systems.
