Family therapy and counseling in Athens, GA

Hi, I’m Shanae Benito, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with support, compassion, and practical tools for change. I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, stress, and life transitions. My approach combines evidence-based practices including TF-MCBT (Trauma-Focused Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy) while creating a space where you feel heard, understood, and seen. I believe healing is not about having all the answer. It's about taking the next step forward together.

If anxiety, depression, or the weight of past trauma has started to feel like it's steering your life instead of you, that's exactly where I do my best work. I'm Erica, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, and I think of myself as your therapeutic GPS — you set the destination, and I help you find the route. I work with children, teens, adults, and couples, and I bring genuine respect, real-world knowledge, and yes, some humor to every session, because feeling comfortable with your therapist actually matters for getting better.

I am a licensed professional counselor with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I work with all ages, but my focus is working with adults. I have been working in the mental health field for over 15 years. I also have experience and a passion for autism and wrote the book African American Fathers Raising An Autistic Child.

​I am experienced and trained in assisting individuals of all ages in dealing with the most unfortunate life transitions. I offer morning, afternoon, and some evening appointments.

I also offer life coaching while focusing on personal empowerment, motivation, and strategies to define and reach your dreams!

Are you ready to take your life back? Let's do this together!

I am a Masters-level therapist dual-licensed in clinical mental health counseling and addictions counseling in North Carolina and Georgia. I am a Level II Certified Attachment-Based Family Therapist and a Certified Adoption Competent Therapist. I am also certified in Natural Flow EMDR. I specialize in treating adolescents, young adults, parents, and families who are struggling with a variety of mental health symptoms and behavioral problems.

Seeking therapy can feel vulnerable, and choosing the right therapist is an important step. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and supported — without judgment. I believe meaningful change happens through a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust, authenticity, and collaboration.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a background in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My experience in private practice and community mental health has allowed me to support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, and concerns related to identity and self-worth.

My therapeutic style is empowering, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I tailor treatment to each person because no two stories are the same. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, Person-Centered Therapy, mindfulness-based strategies, and Solution-Focused Therapy. Together, we’ll identify patterns that may be keeping you stuck, build practical coping skills, and deepen self-awareness, while also exploring underlying emotions and past experiences that shape your present challenges.

I work with adults, couples, and families. My areas of focus include anxiety and chronic stress, depression and mood concerns, trauma and PTSD, relationship and attachment issues, life transitions, self-esteem, identity development, burnout, and compassion fatigue. I strive to provide an inclusive, affirming space for individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.

Clients often describe me as approachable, thoughtful, and grounded.

Outside of work, I value time with family, traveling, fitness, creativity, and continued personal growth. I believe in practicing the same self-awareness and balance that I encourage in my clients.

As a board-certified clinical therapist, I view mental health as essential to overall well-being. Reaching out for support can be one of the hardest steps, and I’m proud of you for taking it. With over 15 years of experience, I’m here to support you on your journey. Everyone’s story is unique and deserves an individualized approach to care.

Is your life stressful and overwhelming? Are you ready to break self-destructive patterns and addictions? If your answer is yes, then help is at hand. Goal Focus Counseling Services (GFPS) incorporates faith along with psychodynamic intervention to give you an effective plan of action. Individualized attention is given to address persistent personal, relationship and work concerns. You and your family can express your feelings privately with someone who is supportive and non-judgmental. Our objective is to focus on goals to maximize your therapeutic experience. With over 20 yers. experience, we now offer video/phone sessions.