Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Athens, GA

Hello and welcome! I’m a ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) License in GA, MD, and North Dakota. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care across the lifespan. I hold a master’s degree in nursing with specialized training in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and medication management, as well as psychotherapy.

My practice focuses on treating a range of conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma-related disorders, addiction recovery and perinatal mental health concerns. I integrate a client-centered approach that may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), supportive counseling, and lifestyle interventions alongside medication when appropriate.

I believe in building a strong therapeutic alliance rooted in trust, respect, and collaboration. Whether you're seeking support for the first time or continuing your mental health journey, I’m here to meet you where you are and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Hello! I'm so excited that you are here. Welcome to the start of something new! My name is Samaria Witherspoon, but I’m commonly known as Sam. I am an author, professor as well as the founder of Hidden to Healing, LLC providing individual, couples and family counseling to those that are struggling with trauma, anxiety, overall life satisfaction, depression, aggression, grief, substance abuse, and behavioral and emotional issues.

Helping clients discovering the emotions and mood that cause barriers towards growth. Learning to explore with a journey through life experiences and challenges. As a counseling psychology doctorate, with a LPC, as SA counselor since 2016, as an LPC 2017, I practice utilizing CBT, adult play therapy, couples, family, DBT, EMDR, and other therapeutic interventions. Additionally I have experience with working in substance abuse and alcohol use as a CMAC,MAC,CCS. I am a CPCS supervisor. And work with 21 and above dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss.

I have a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. I assist clients to be empowered and learn different coping mechanisms as needed. I create a warm and safe environment for people to discuss their needs.

Don't allow mental blocks to control you, set yourself free! It's important to be mindful, one talk at a time. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I've been in the mental health field over 20+ years. I've had a wide range of counseling experience in working with individuals, families, and groups. I've dealt with a wide range of issues that includes but are not limited to; substance abuse, anger management, ADHD, depression, personality disorders, grief, self-esteem, and conflict issues.

Are you struggling with feelings that you can't quite put into words? Have you attempted to mask this with unhealthy behaviors and coping that has led to guilt, shame or self-doubt? Maybe just being forced to "push through" because life has given you no other alternatives. Potentially these emotions have gotten in the way of your success and or every day life (job, school, relationships), and, you have turned to every avenue for help, but still not found yourself feeling any better? If this is you then your feelings are valid. I help individuals who are struggling to get unstuck in tackling the many challenges of life.

My approach is individualized and non-judgmental. It is important for me to take the time to help you feel safe and comfortable enough to be your true and authentic self. I see everyone's journey as unique within its own right. I believe that the experiences from our past help shape and define our present sometimes being embedded in our subconscious.

Whether you are new to therapy and anxious about taking that first step, or returning after a long haul, I am here to help you take the steps needed to move your life in the ways of your own choosing. My hope is help you bring clarity to your experiences while supporting you in your journey towards transcendence.

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes therapy should be a place where you feel safe, understood, and empowered to grow. I work with adults navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, burnout, and identity exploration. Many of my clients are professionals, caregivers, and helpers who spend so much time supporting others that they forget to care for themselves. I provide sex-positive, kink-affirming, LGBTQIA+-affirming therapy and affirming care for people in consensually nonmonogamous (CNM) relationships, creating a space where you can show up as your authentic self.