Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Milledgeville, GA

I'm a licensed counselor and scholar-practitioner with more than 29 years of experience providing behavioral health care across a wide range of settings. In 2009 I founded BSmith Consulting Group, LLC, where I work with individuals navigating adjustment issues, mental health disorders, and co-occurring (dual diagnosis) concerns. Alongside my clinical work, I provide employee assistance support to individuals, professionals, and organizations, and I contribute to the field through clinical supervision, training of fellow mental health professionals, and presenting at local, state, and national platforms. My goal is always to meet you where you are and support your long-term wellness.

Life can feel incredibly heavy when anxiety, grief, trauma, depression, or major life changes begin affecting your ability to move forward. You may feel overwhelmed by emotions, exhausted from carrying burdens on your own, or unsure where to turn next. Sometimes the hardest part is feeling like no one truly understands what you've been through. I work with adults and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, panic disorders, grief and loss, PTSD, trauma, stress, bipolar disorder, and anger management concerns. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling emotionally drained, discouraged, or disconnected from the peace and fulfillment they want for themselves. My goal is to provide a compassionate and supportive space where you can slow down, feel heard, make sense of your experiences, and begin moving toward healing with greater confidence and hope.

As a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor, I believe that a warm, non-judgmental connection is the foundation of meaningful healing. Reaching out for support takes courage, and my goal is to walk alongside you in a collaborative, person-centered space. While I bring extensive clinical experience to my practice and am currently completing my PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy, my approach is always human-first and tailored to your unique needs. I also specialize in play therapy, offering creative and developmentally appropriate tools for younger clients to safely process their emotions. Whatever your goals may be, I am here to support and empower you every step of the way.

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Georgia. I received my Masters from Lindsey Wilson College in Kentucky and have been practicing for 16 years. I help clients struggling with traumas, anxiety , depression and behavioral concerns. I have experience in working in multiple settings including telehealth, school based, office and in home counseling. I utilize several modalities in my counseling including strength based, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT and CBT.

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.

I am passionate about serving people helping to rebuild trust, restore relationships, and move beyond struggles with trauma, addiction, intimacy, depression and brokenness.

I bring both clinical expertise and real-world experience into our work together. I understand that many people come to therapy feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or unsure where to start and I meet clients with patience, respect, and honesty.

I believe therapy should feel collaborative, culturally responsive, and grounded in safety. I don’t rush the process or expect clients to have everything figured out. We move at a pace that feels sustainable, while still working toward meaningful change.

Clients should also know that I value direct communication and transparency. I will offer reflections and tools when helpful, but I will always honor your autonomy and lived experience. I do not believe in pathologizing survival responses, especially when they are shaped by trauma, systemic stress, or long-term caregiving roles.

Above all, my goal is to create a space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered, a space where you can breathe, reflect, and begin to shift from surviving to living with greater clarity and intention.

Life can often feel like a series of overwhelming transitions, leaving you feeling disconnected or unsure of your next step. I provide a dedicated space for adults (22+) to slow down, reflect, and move forward with renewed clarity.

Whether you are navigating the complexities of trauma, managing a mood disorder, or facing significant life changes, my goal is to help you transform "feeling stuck" into a journey of intentional growth.

How We Will Work Together

My approach is relational, honest, and depth-oriented. Rather than just addressing surface-level symptoms, we will explore the unspoken beliefs and past experiences that quietly shape your daily life. By learning to listen to what your emotions are communicating, you can begin to respond to life’s challenges in ways that promote genuine healing and authentic connection.

Specialized Support for Couples

In addition to individual therapy, I specialize in marriage and pre-marital counseling. I help couples at all stages build resilient foundations, repair emotional disconnections, and foster a deeper sense of intimacy and mutual understanding.

**Please note: While I accept insurance for individual therapy, all couples counseling is private-pay only. Insurance does not cover relationship-focused therapy.

Your Journey Starts Here

You deserve a space where you are fully seen, heard, and empowered. No matter where you are in your journey, I am here to support you in creating meaningful, lasting change.

Welcome to the first step of the rest of your life. Deciding to begin your therapeutic journey can feel overwhelming and sometimes impossible. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I’m passionate about helping people feel heard, understood, and empowered. I strive to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences and build the tools they need to move forward. My approach is collaborative and grounded in respect for each person’s unique story and strengths.

Hello, I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals and families improve their mental wellness. I provide compassionate, personalized care for children, adolescents, and adults experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood concerns, and life stress.

With a background in both healthcare and early childhood education, I understand the importance of supporting the whole person at every stage of life. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and empowered.

Hi! My name is Elana, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia, I support individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I have experience working with people of all ages in multiple different settings. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices. Whether you’re coping with overwhelming stress, adjusting to a major life change, or seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I offer a safe and nonjudgmental space for healing and growth. Together, we’ll work toward greater balance, confidence, and well-being.