Hi, I am so glad that you are here! I am passionate about helping others reconnect with their true selves. I empower my clients to let go of what is no longer serving them and learn how to navigate the relationships and challenges in their lives with greater resilience and confidence. I strive to create a safe space where my clients feel heard, accepted, and supported above all else.

I often work with clients to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors. I enjoy incorporating Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques into my practice. DBT provides skills and psychoeducation on managing emotions, tolerating distress, and having better relationships. One key aspect of DBT is mindfulness. Mindfulness is a beneficial tool for helping clients of all ages learn how to become more aware of their emotions and how to better regulate them. Through learning and practicing healthier coping skills we can begin to let go of unhealthier ones that no longer serve us. I also implement Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques into my practice. CBT helps us be able to understand how our thoughts affect our emotions and behaviors. Through changing our thoughts, we can change how we feel or behave. With younger clients, I find it particularly effective to use CBT, mindfulness, and art techniques. With all my clients, I begin by creating an integrative treatment plan specifically tailored to their needs and goals.

I specialize in working with children (ages 9 to 12), adolescents, college students, and young adults. I enjoy working with clients on things like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, body image issues, divorce, grief, depression, bullying, anger management, ADHD, social skills, spirituality, ASD, emotional regulation, bullying, grief, life transitions, personal growth, self-esteem, perfectionism, and stress and stress management. I mainly see clients through individual sessions, however I enjoy working with children and adolescents through group counseling as well.

I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Society and Health at The University of Mississippi, as well as my Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Mississippi College. I am a member of the American Counseling Association, Chi Sigma Iota Honor Society, and a student member of the Association for Play Therapy. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and an Associate Professional Counselor (APC) under the supervision and direction of Dr. Christi Bartolomucci, Ph.D., LPC, CPCS and Dr. Ashley Tolleson, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, CPCS, RPT.

Beginning therapy can be an intimidating and overwhelming process. I would be happy to answer any questions and help in determining what next steps may be best for you. Thank you, I am honored to embark on this journey of self-growth with you!

Mary Rogers Merrell, MS, APC, NCC

770.293.1950 ext. 113

4045 Orchard Road, Suite 110
Smyrna, Georgia 30080

maryrogers@atlantainnovativecounseling.com