Stephanie Douglas, MS, NCC

Just like you’d go to a doctor if you were sick, Stephanie wants to empower potential and current clients to do the same when it comes to their psychological, emotional, and relational health.

My Story:

Hello! I’m Stephanie Douglas, a licensed associate professional counselor. I was drawn to the field of counseling because I enjoyed quality time with people one on one and in small groups – having quality conversation about important things in my life or their lives and sharing how we dealt with things. Later I was told, and then also noticed, that people would share things with me that they would admit they had not shared with anyone else. Also, it’s in the genes. My mother went from classroom teacher to middle school counselor because of a similar reason – the kids connected with and confided in her. Today the field of counseling is increasing in popularity and becoming more normalized and validated. In fact, there are many people that are surprised if someone is not engaged in counseling or some level of therapy or coaching. Even though I’ve believed in counseling work for many years, the excitement I have today stems from a general acceptance of it. Another aspect of it that excites is the prevalence of counseling in the faith-based community. Therapy is becoming more widely accepted and seen as necessary in the faith-based community and our churches.

How I Work:

My personal style of communicating is direct. However, when working with a client, I tend to veer towards their communication style and attempt to stylize mine to theirs. I believe being client-centered is important, at least in the beginning. Sometimes I am able to understand what they respond to, more direct or more empathetic, after a few sessions. When I want to encourage my clients, I like to emphasize that they are the ones that came up with the solution to manage their anxiety and depression and are doing the hard work to feel better. When a person feels helpless, they may not even see that they can help themselves. This may not work in all situations (such as trauma), but often it does and is helpful.

About Stephanie:

I rely heavily on my faith in God, and time with my friends and family. Taking long breaks are sometimes needed but not always possible. Small treats like pedicures or, if I have the resources, a great massage can be helpful too. I also chat with people that are in the counseling field to ask what helps them or just have small talk to understand trends or things they’re experiencing.

Stephanie’s Favorite Resources:

• The Broken Way: A Daring Path into the Abundant Life
• Necessary Endings: The Employees, Businesses, and Relationships That All of Us Have to Give Up in Order to Move Forward
• Changes That Heal: Four Practical Steps to a Happier, Healthier You
• Boundaries, Updated and Expanded Edition: When to Say Yes, How to Say No to Take Control of Your Life
• How We Love: Discover Your Love Style, Enhance Your Marriage

• Bachelor of Arts, Wesleyan College
• Master of Public Administration, Georgia State University
• Master of Science, Clinical Mental Health, Mercer University
• National Certified Counselor (NCC)

• “Before you go!” Considerations for Career Moves
• Should I Go To Therapy?
• Understanding Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder