As individuals begin to seek out therapy or counseling, most have questions and uncertainties that they need answered as they decide on the therapist they want to work with. You have a right to get to know the person you will share with.  As a way of introduction, please see the below points to satisfy your needs and questions.  If you have any thoughts or questions that are not addressed here or want to contact me for an appointment, please don’t hesitate to email (mandipeek@bellsouth.net) or call (770-280-1224 ext. 3090).  Emails are usually answered within 48 hours Monday - Thursday.

Below you will find:

• Defining Characteristics of my counseling practice

• Credentials, education, and background

• Areas of focus

• Spirituality in counseling

 Defining characteristics of my counseling practice… 

Each client I have a relationship with will  find a balance of empathy and productive insight in our counseling relationship. The counseling hour is meant to hold space and dedicated time out of a busy lifestyle to touch on and move into issues that are at work in the other 167 hours of the week. It is an invitation to think deeply about patterns and circumstances that end up determining our well being as they operate under the radar screen of our lives.  I ask you to come off of “auto-pilot” with me each session so that you can be intentional about sorting personal and relational pain, discontent, and dissatisfaction. 

 You can then use your insight productively as we sort out weaknesses and needs, strengths and advantages and employ practical, resolution oriented techniques and processes.  My hope is for change at the soul level that won’t be a band-aid over an infected place, but a cleansed healed way to live the life you feel you’ve been missing out on. I am here as a companion to coach and guide with psychological and spiritual resources as you journey toward your personal healing and goals. 

Credentials, education, and background….

I am an Associate Licensed Professional Counselor through the state of Georgia. I am, as well, certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors.  I hold a membership with the American Association of Christian Counselors and am an affiliate of the national organization for Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders.  Also, I work in connection with the Atlanta based organization, EDIN--Eating Disorders Information Network. 

 I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology (University of Florida) and a Master of Science degree in Professional Counseling from Georgia State University.  In addition, I have done graduate work at the Psychological Studies Institute and hold a Master of Science degree in Christian Psychological Studies. I have enjoyed a growing private practice for 7 years.

Areas of focus….

I have, through experience and continuing education, developed a focus and passion in my practice for a variety of forms of disordered eating.  I work with women off all ages,  and frequently with adolescent girls in the struggle with disordered eating—food, fat, and diet obsessions. 

 Other issues specific to a woman’s journey—(not exclusive to) relational difficulties, abuse recovery, identity struggles, sexuality, depression, and anxiety—are also a large portion of  my client population and expertise.  

Working with adolescents is also a significant area of my work.  I love and appreciate the opportunity to connect with them when their lives are as tender as ever. 

I am invested generally and specifically in healing at root levels, implementing lasting change and not quick fixes.  I lend a perspective to aid the journey of each client as they sort through their past experiences, influences, and suffering to distinguish their true self apart from baggage, masks, crutches, and coping mechanisms that lead to destruction.  A goal is to live authentically with self acceptance and freedom.

Spirituality in Counseling….

I seek to help clients integrate their own personal and spiritual beliefs into the counseling process.  I would characterize my counseling as “spiritually sensitive” as I am aware of the centrality of body, mind, and soul.  I am committed to, and hold as sacred, each client's perspective and prerogative follow their own inclination as they pursue their spirituality. 

 My own spiritual journey is distinctly Christian as I have experienced Jesus as gentle and life giving.  I have known Christ’s love to extend outside tradition, norm, and moral dictates.  Healing has been found for me in a sort of homecoming of self-awareness in proper reference to the selfless love and acceptance of Christ.  A spiritual perspective coupled with  psychological understanding are a strength of my practice.