Terri Richardson, MS
Therapist

My Background
A seed of compassion was planted in my heart when I was a young child in South Carolina, coping with my parents’ divorce. Nurtured by a loving community that surrounded us at the time, that seed grew into a great love for others and a desire to serve those in pain. Because I longed to give as others had given to me, I began helping my community as a young adult. I started by volunteering in shelters for the homeless and battered women. My work there led me to open a non-profit organization providing resources to families in need and mentoring for women and children coping with life transitions. After completing my undergraduate studies, I worked in several Core agencies throughout the metro-Atlanta area serving couples, teens, families, and groups. While employed by the Georgia Division of Family and Child Services, I served as a State Certified Investigator, serving families coping with trauma and crisis. My 10 years in various clinical environments fostered a passion for working with adolescents, families, and couples. Since receiving my master’s degree, I have practiced in private settings while working toward full licensure in the state of Georgia. I am currently under the supervision of Mercianna Oliver, Ph.D., CPCS, and Lisa Poore, LPC, CPCS, and under the direction of Christie Poole, LMFT.
My Education And Approach
I earned my undergraduate degree in Human Relations at Point University, formerly Atlanta Christian College, and my master’s degree in Professional Counseling at Grand Canyon University. I am a member of the American Counseling Association (ACA). My clinical approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a researched-based modality for the treatment of anxiety and depression, Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), a short-term therapy to treat a variety of issues, including depression and anxiety and relational issues, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a powerful tool for the treatment of trauma and emotional dysregulation. In addition, I am currently pursuing training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, the #1 treatment for couples experiencing relational distress.
The Role Of Faith In My Practice
My faith is the foundation of my life as well as my clinical work. Jeremiah 29:11, “I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,” comes to mind as I collaborate with clients. Why? Because I see hope in each marriage, each individual, and each family.
Who I Help
I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults, couples, and families. My previous experience with the Division of Family and Child Services fostered my desire to work with everyone in the family on their path to wholeness. I have worked with couples, with adults and teens experiencing anxiety and depression, teens with ODD, and clients with bipolar/mood disorders, addictions, OCD, grief, life transition issues, trauma, spiritual abuse, and chronic illness. My desire is to continue that work by partnering with you in navigating your way back to the life God purposed for you.
For a free 15-minute consultation or your first appointment, call 678.631.7639.