Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Gainesville, GA

Welcome! I have been in private practice for 4 years, following clinical experience in both in-patient and outpatient substance abuse and dual-diagnosis treatment. I work with individuals and couples, and a significant focus of my practice is work with teens and young adults. I so look forward to meeting you!

I've been a Licensed Professional Counselor for 12 years and have a private office for those who live near my office. I have experience in Christian Counseling, Low Self-esteem, Communication Skills, Coping Skills, Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, ADD, Anger Management, Relationship issues, Substance Abuse, Domestic Violence and see clients ages 6 and up.

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.

Becoming a therapist was inspired by those who helped me navigate my own personal struggles—I proudly identify as the first people in my family to graduate from high school. I connect best with those who are seeking connection and understanding. I enjoy working with "busy brains" and deep feelers often those navigating anxiety, a harsh relationship with themselves, or feeling unsatisfied in their daily life. My casual demeanor and practice is based on my values of authenticity and balance. My professional career started out in outdoor recreation and education, where I led group development programs and later worked in wilderness therapy—a role that deepened my interest in helping others grow through challenge and connection. My skills and passions have since expanded by working in community practice, group private practice, and education.

I have served in the addiction and mental health treatment fields for 15 years.

During this time, I've worked in multiple settings such as state agencies, treatment courts, universities, and in private practice. I currently serve as the Executive Director of PathLight Counseling in Woodstock, GA. PathLight began in 2017 with one mission in mind; to help the hurting and see people set free. I treat teens and adults.

Greeting!

I am a seasoned professional continuing to study and learn the most impactful ways to lessen human suffering and promote self love in all. Beginning my practice decades ago as a combat trauma therapist, I have found myself dealing with the traumas of early life and relationships with most my adolescent and adult clients. I believe counseling can offer many “tools”, to cope, however, I prefer to help people heal so that coping becomes an infrequent need.

I have been practicing psychotherapy for more than 20 years, providing a supportive space to explore challenges, gain insight, and create meaningful change. I hold a master’s degree in social work and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). My approach integrates evidence-based practices with a focus on helping clients build resilience, develop new perspectives, and move toward balance in their lives.

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.