Shelley Akerman , LPC

Shelley Akerman is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) practicing in Georgia with 11 years of clinical experience across outpatient and hospital settings. She earned a Master’s degree from Mercer University in Atlanta in 2013 and has since supported clients across the lifespan, from young children to older adults, and from a wide range of cultural, racial, gender, sexual, political, and spiritual backgrounds.

Shelley has worked with individuals facing depression, anxiety, grief, low self-esteem, trauma and abuse, relationship conflict, domestic violence, addiction, psychosis, and self-harm, bringing practical interventions and compassionate support to each case. Her approach blends evidence-based techniques with a warm, down-to-earth manner that helps people feel respected and understood while they work toward meaningful change.

She values collaboration and creativity, partnering with clients to develop practical strategies and personalized goals. Drawing on a friendly and relaxed counseling style, Shelley aims to help people recognize their strengths and move toward healthier, more fulfilling lives. Having her own therapist informs her belief in the importance of feeling supported and accepted during the therapeutic process, and she is committed to walking alongside clients as they pursue their goals and growth.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care with Shelley Akerman

Shelley Akerman integrates client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness therapy into her practice to address a variety of concerns. Client-centered therapy focuses on creating an accepting, nonjudgmental space where the client’s experience guides the work and personal strengths are emphasized - it is useful for improving self-esteem, building trust, and exploring life choices. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps identify and shift unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, offering practical tools for managing anxiety, depression, and mood-related challenges. Mindfulness therapy teaches present-moment awareness and stress-reduction skills that can support coping with anxiety, trauma symptoms, and emotional regulation.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic journey, and Shelley works collaboratively with clients to determine what fits best based on their needs, goals, and preferences. Sessions can draw on one or more methods and evolve as progress is made.

Online therapy options include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, providing flexible ways to meet that fit different schedules and comfort levels. These formats make it easier to access licensed professionals from varied locations, maintain continuity of care during life changes, and choose the communication style that feels most helpful for each client.