Summit’s Edge is an Anti-Racist, Neuro-Diverse, Trans-Inclusive, LGBTQ+, and Gender, Sexual, & Romantic Minorities-Affirming practice. We are respectful of all cultures and exercise humility toward our client’s religious identities.
We are passionate about ensuring our organization is a safe space for our employees and our clients. As such, bigotry or any form of discrimination directed at our staff or other clients will not be tolerated and will result in immediate clinical termination.
MEET OUR TEAM
DARON ELAM (SHE/HER)
Daron is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist who utilizes Radically-Open DBT therapy. She graduated with a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University, specializing in Trauma & Crisis Counseling. She prefers working with clients utilizing Hypnotherapy, Somatic Therapy, and the Internal Family Systems (IFS) models of treatment. Daron is an AFAA trained yoga instructor and incorporates gentle and trauma-informed movement into treatment to release trauma from the body. Daron loves investing energy into working with "cycle breakers" (those who are the first in their family to end the generational cycles that perpetuate pain and trauma in their family structure). She works with adults (18+) on the wide spectrum of gender, sexual and romantic identities seeking recovery from childhood sexual abuse or sexual assault. She is skilled in the treatment of mood and personality disorders where there is a personal history of trauma. She loves to do self-discovery work with post-partum women experiencing depression and identity development or adjustment around parenthood. Her preferred modality of treatment is hypnotherapy for working through phobias, severe anxiety, and intrusive thoughts associated with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Finally, Daron offers parent coaching and private practice coaching for small to medium sized group practice owners.
ROBERT REYNOLDS (HE/HIM)
Robert earned his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Auburn University and completed specialized training at Emory University Hospital. Robert has a passion for working with a diverse range of clients, including teens navigating the complexities of adolescence, survivors of trauma seeking healing, LGBTQ+ individuals striving to live authentically, and high-performance individuals struggling to balance mental well-being with their drive for success. Known for a compassionate, yet direct approach, Robert utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Trauma-Informed Care to help clients build resilience, self-awareness, and emotional regulation. Robert is particularly skilled in helping clients overcome challenges like performance or sports anxiety, perfectionism, identity exploration, and the lingering effects of trauma. Robert creates a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and build the confidence to thrive in all areas of their lives. Whether working on the field or off, Robert is dedicated to helping clients achieve a balanced and fulfilling life while fostering growth and empowerment through individualized, inclusive care. Robert is under the Supervision of Jamie Hall, and he accepts Cigna & Aetna.
CADE STEWART (SHE/HER)
Cade is a National Certified Counselor who holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mississippi State University. Cade is a dedicated mental health professional with a deep commitment to fostering mental wellness. Specializing in a broad range of areas, including anxiety, depression, identity exploration, trauma, grief, life balance, neuro-developmental disorders, and self-esteem, Cade is LGBTQIA+ affirming and offers compassionate and client-centered care tailored to individual needs. With a focus on creating a safe and supportive environment, Cade is dedicated to helping clients navigate their challenges, build resilience, and find fulfillment. She utilizes a diverse array of theoretical orientations, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, solution-focused approaches, and Narrative Therapy, to support clients in achieving their therapeutic goals. Whether addressing complex issues or everyday struggles, she integrates evidence-based practices with a personalized approach to promote mental health and well-being. Cade is under the Supervision of Jamie Hall, and she accepts Cigna & Aetna.
LIESL ENGELBRECHT (SHE/HER)
Liesl is a Nationally Certified Counselor with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health and Addictions Counseling from the University of North Georgia. She works with teens, young adults, middle-aged adults, and couples. Liesl sees clients as experts of their own lives and strives to understand their unique perspectives, experiences, identities, and systems. She aims to create a safe, authentic space where clients feel validated, challenged, and empowered to grow. Liesl specializes in trauma, religious trauma, self-harm, grief and loss, identity exploration, self-esteem, life transitions, substance use, and process addictions. She is particularly passionate about working with individuals exploring their identity, gender, or sexual orientation, including LGBTQIA+ couples. As a former athlete, Liesl also enjoys supporting athletes managing performance pressures and daily stressors. Her approach integrates Person-Centered Theory, Relational Cultural Theory, Systems Theory, Gottman Method for couples, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) principles. She is trained and certified in Motivational Interviewing (MI). Liesl accepts Cigna & Aetna and is under the Supervision of Katie Lamberson.
KATIE BARILLAS (SHE/HER)
Katie holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Thomas University. Katie recognizes the vulnerable nature of therapy and aims to provide an encouraging and nonjudgmental space for individuals to explore themselves and their emotions. She is committed to counseling with compassionate curiosity and feels honored to be a part of her clients’ transformative and expansive journey. Katie focuses on fostering a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship that can provide the necessary foundation to inspire true growth and lasting change. She looks forward to helping clients identify and build upon their strengths as they work together to develop more effective coping strategies to draw upon in difficult circumstances. Katie does this by teaching clients to utilize mindfulness exercises, practice emotional regulation, and nurture intentional habits. Katie is especially interested in working with adults who have experienced religious trauma or who are in a mixed-religion relationship. She is passionate about her work with individuals experiencing overwhelming or unsettled emotions as they seek to define their own personal values and cultivate a life that they can truly enjoy. She is LGBTQ+ affirming, and polyamory/non-monogamy friendly. Katie is under the Supervision of Amy Robbins, and accepts Cigna & Aetna.
VALERIE DIAZ (SHE/HER)
Valerie is a Master's Level Clinical Intern studying Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Southern New Hampshire University. She is under the Supervision of Jamie Hall (LPC, BCC, CPCS) and she works with individuals aged 14 and older facing challenges in accepting and being accepted for who they are and where they are in life. Valerie is an advocate for mental health and believes it to be a fundamental human right. She is dedicated to supporting those experiencing anxiety and depression brought on by various life transitions and is especially passionate about working with post-partum women, those affected by immigration, and career/life-calling turning points. Valerie is LGBTQIA+ affirming and polyamory/non-monogamy friendly. Valerie speaks Spanish and enjoys working with the Latinx and Hispanic community. Valerie does not accept insurance, however, she offers a reduced rate of $60 to accommodate for this and provide accessible care for all.
JUSTIN HO (HE/HIM)
Justin is a Nationally Certified, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). He received his Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mercer University. Justin utilizes a person-centered approach to assist older teens, young adults and couples toward achieving their goals. He has clinical experience working with clients through anxiety, depression, relationship and communication issues, men’s issues and life transitions. Justin utilizes Solution-Focused Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in addition to providing a warm, inviting environment to encourage his clients to find the empowerment and growth they are seeking. He is also certified as a Prepare/Enrich premarital counseling facilitator. When it comes to therapy, Justin approaches each session with a collaborative mindset. He aims to create connections on an emotional level that are open, honest, and judgment free. Justin hopes to cultivate a safe space for each client to speak freely and work on their personal development. Justin accepts Cigna & Aetna.
JAMIE HALL (SHE/HER)
Jamie is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Board Certified Personal Development Coach (BCC), and a Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor (CPCS). Passionate about guiding adults (18+) who are ready to “level up”, Jamie focuses on fostering growth and facilitating positive change. Known for her straightforward and “no-BS” approach, she empowers her clients to challenge their limitations, embrace mindfulness, and adopt a solution-focused mindset. Jamie specializes in working with high achievers, executives, members of law enforcement, & veterans who may be experiencing performance anxiety, burnout, or perfectionism. She is especially passionate about her work with women experiencing burnout from the “mental load”. Through direct communication, reality-based therapy, and humor, Jamie encourages her clients to explore uncomfortable territory, confront their fears, and live authentically. With advanced training in Trauma, Executive Coaching, Resilience Coaching, Creative Interventions and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT Tapping), Jamie possesses a diverse toolkit to support her clients effectively. Jamie offers counseling to clients in Georgia and Florida, and accepts Aetna. She also provides Personal & Professional Coaching services to clients worldwide. Additionally, she offers Clinical Supervision for pre-licensed clinicians and is our Senior Practice Consultant and Project Manager for the Practice Consultation Services Branch.
SYDNEY CHRISTIAN (SHE/HER)
Sydney is a Team Lead at Summit’s Edge. She is an Associate Professional Counselor (APC) with a Master of Education in Counselor Education with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Valdosta State University. She incorporates intersectionality, inclusion, and equity to foster a therapeutic and healing environment for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color), Neuro-divergent, Queer and Trans (LGBTQ+) people. She specializes in working with adult clients with marginalized identities experiencing depression, anxiety, dissociative symptoms, neuro-diversity, and trauma, She uses an intersectional, neuro-affirming, and trauma-informed therapeutic approach. Utilizing modalities of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Mindfulness Interventions. She believes in fighting the stigma of mental health by meeting clients where they are to aid in the process of healing. Sydney is under the supervision of Dr. Latrice Love and accepts Aetna & Cigna.
STEFAN VAN SANT (HE/HIM)
Stefan is a Licensed Masters Social Worker (LMSW). Stefan approaches therapy with honesty, emotional depth, and responsibility, focusing on helping clients achieve their goals through a collaborative relationship. He provides a safe space for genuine change and adapts when necessary to ensure the best outcomes. Stefan supports clients without sugarcoating, believing in their self-awareness and potential. He emphasizes trusting instincts, clarifying values, and breaking through barriers, while committing to transparency and dedication throughout the process. With a background as a professional musician, Stefan blends creativity with evidence-based approaches like DBT, ACT, trauma-informed care, and IFS. He specializes in borderline personality disorder, depression, gaming addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and ADHD, helping clients navigate self-awareness, relationships, and acceptance. Stefan invites clients to join him on a transformative journey toward a more fulfilling life.Stefan is under the Supervision of Jamie Hall, CPCS and accepts Cigna and Aetna.
SHEQUITA CAMPBELL (SHE/HER)
Shequita is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, holding a Master's degree from Kennesaw State University. Specializing in adult mental health (18+), Shequita is adept at navigating a spectrum of emotional and psychological challenges, from PTSD and anxiety to depression, relationship issues, and self-esteem concerns. She takes a keen interest in supporting caregivers who deal with the complex challenges of raising a child affected by sexual abuse. Additionally, Shequita excels in helping individuals forge healthy emotional and sexual connections, particularly when faced with a sexual health diagnosis. Using a blend of Psychodynamic, Person-Centered, and Relational Therapies, Shequita tailors her approach to each client’s specific needs, practicing cultural humility and enriching the experience with motivational interviewing and mindfulness techniques. She's an active advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community and is Gottman Level 1 Certified. Shequita is under the Supervision Paul Olander, and accepts Cigna & Aetna.
LIZ CARSON (SHE/HER)
Liz is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida State University. She is passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults as they navigate life challenges such as grief, trauma, life transitions, anxiety, self-esteem, depression, and identity formation. Liz has extensive experience working with young people grieving the death of someone important to them, as well as with children navigating a parent’s cancer diagnosis, and is trained in Trauma and Grief Component Therapy for Adolescents. She understands that every person’s story is uniquely their own and is passionate about helping them understand their individual needs and helping them feel empowered as self-advocates. Liz incorporates elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness along with art, play, and other creative techniques to ensure clients have multiple ways to express themselves. Liz is under the supervision of Kimberly Veira, LCSW and accepts Cigna & Aetna.
MICHAEL VENEZIA (HE/HIM)
Michael is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Georgia and Alabama and National Certified Counselor (NCC). He takes a humanistic and client-centered approach with the integration of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Behavioral Therapy (CBT), or Parent-Child Interactive Therapy (PCIT). Michael works with a diverse range of clients to include children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. He is LGBTQ+ affirming and specializes in treating clients with depression, self-esteem, anxiety, or anger, family conflict to include parenting issues, or who are having a difficult time adjusting to life changes. Michael is paneled with Cigna, Aetna, & United Healthcare.
BEN HEATH (HE/HIM)
Ben is a Team Lead at Summit’s Edge. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and earned a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Ben is passionate about working with a diverse clientele, including sexual and gender minorities as well as racial and ethnic minorities, with extensive history serving Latino and Hispanic individuals and families. He works hard to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment, valuing the worth of every individual that enters therapy. Ben’s specialties include Anxiety disorders, Trauma, OCD, Panic Attacks, Mood Disorders, and working with people on the Autism Spectrum. He employs Internal Family Systems (IFS) as a primary approach to therapy in which personal insight and guidance are gained through works of courage and personal compassion during the therapy process. (Watch this video to understand IFS a little better). Ben’s work is also heavily informed by CBT, DBT, and Narrative Therapy approaches. Ben accepts Cigna & Aetna.
KATHERINE PENUELA (SHE/HER)
Katherine is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). She earned her Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, a nationally accredited program. She has completed the Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT) Externship with Dr. Sue Johnson providing services to clients in Georgia and Texas. Katherine has also completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and applies it in her work. She specializes in working with couples, families, and individuals facing anxiety, life transitions, and those struggling with day-to-day life. She is passionate about working with Latinx and Hispanic couples and individuals. Katherine utilizes her specialized training, along with her genuine, energetic, and charismatic approach, creating an encouraging environment to promote healing and growth. Katherine is fluent in both English and Spanish and accepts Cigna & Aetna.
DIONE HUNTER (SHE/HER)
Dione earned her Masters in Counseling Psychology with a concentration of Dance Movement Therapy from Alabama A&M University. She is passionate about assisting young adults, adults, and couples achieve their freedom goals by creating a space where they can feel safe and empowered to learn, grow, and thrive. Her ideal clients are monogamous couples, polyamory/non-monogamy partnerships, and BIPOC (Black,Indigenous, and People of Color) individuals. Dione’s specialties include sexual trauma, marital issues, postpartum depression, anxiety/depression, interpersonal concerns, faith-based therapy, dance movement therapy, and self-esteem issues. Dione utilizes a person-centered approach and incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Narrative Therapy through a Solution-Focused lens. Dione is currently pursuing her Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) under the supervision of Atlanta Sex Therapist Natalie Elliott AAMFT. Dione will soon be certified in Sex Therapy and EMDR and she accepts Aetna & Cigna.
BRITTANY MCGRADY (SHE/HER)
Brittany is a Licensed Masters Social Worker (LMSW) who earned her Masters Degree at University at Albany, State University of New York with a concentration in Clinical Social Work. Brittany has a sincere passion for working with individuals, helping them cope with and heal from life adversities, building and maintaining rapport and creating a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients. Brittany is an advocate for maintaining human rights and the implementation of programs/services that are most effective in addressing the needs of children, adults and families. Brittany specializes in peer relationships, anger management, stress management, self-esteem, family conflict and career counseling. Brittany incorporates evidenced-based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Practices, Restorative Justice Practices, Strengths Based Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Brittany’s goals are to educate and empower! Brittany is under the supervision of Kimberly Viera, LCSW and accepts Aetna & Cigna.
JOSHUA YOUNG (HE/HIM)
Joshua earned his Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Mercer University. He is passionate about working with LGTBQ+ individuals, artists, and those experiencing life transitions. He is Poly-informed and Trauma-informed. Joshua utilizes Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Mindfulness to help clients explore and accept unique elements of themselves. His work integrates elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Joshua strives to create a warm and welcoming environment where clients feel safe to explore themselves. He enjoys assisting clients in developing compassion toward themselves and an attunement to the present moment. Joshua is under the supervision of Susan Marshall, and accepts Cigna & Aetna.
JULIANNA ROBINSON (SHE/HER)
Julianna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who earned her Master’s degree in Social Work with a concentration in Advanced Direct Practice from Arizona State University. Julianna is passionate about providing a safe, nurturing and compassionate space for clients to voice and process their experiences and emotions while assisting them with developing coping strategies and empowering them toward wellness, self-acceptance and wholeness. Julianna works with adolescents and young adults and specializes in treating eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns, sexual trauma, religious trauma, and trauma-related disorders. Julianna incorporates evidence-based interventions including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Informed CBT, and mindfulness based approaches. Julianna strives to help clients build a life aligned with their values as they experience wholeness, freedom and healing. Julianna sees clients in Georgia and Florida and accepts Cigna & Aetna.
TURK ALJALLAL (HE/HIM)
Turk has over 10 years of international, corporate HR experience in the consulting, telecom, and banking industries, giving him unique insight into the challenges that come from sustaining work/life balance, pursuing vocational satisfaction, and the interplay between mental health and career success. Turk strives to create a welcoming, warm, and non-judgmental environment while actively engaging in positive relationship development to promote self-exploration and understanding with his clients. He tailors his approach utilizing a combination of positive psychology, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to support each individual’s unique mental health journey. He is dedicated to assisting a diverse range of adults, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, and those facing relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, career obstacles, life transitions, and struggles related to identity belonging and acceptance (religious, secular, sexuality). He speaks both English and Arabic. Turk offers a therapy journey that is transformative, enjoyable, and uniquely human. He guides you through creative and unconventional pathways to healing and personal growth by incorporating the use of humor and light-heartedness in the face of challenges. Turk is a graduate of UGA’s Master of Social Work program and is pursuing his LCSW working under the supervision of Jamie Hall, CPCS. He accepts Aetna & Cigna.
Client experience coordinators
Our Client Experience Coordinators (CEC) are the backbone of our practice. From your very first phone call, to your very last session, you can expect to feel welcomed, accepted, and safe at Summit’s Edge, thanks to this amazing team. Our CEC’s are trained to match therapists with clients based on the client’s needs and preferences. Each of our CEC’s strive to provide a positive experience for anyone visiting our office. They work to create a warm and inviting environment whether you speak with them on the phone or meet them in person — ensuring that every client feels valued and that their needs are being met.
KELLY JORDAN (SHE/HER)
Lead Client Experience Coordinator
JULIANA KRUEGER
Client Experience Coordinator
TIFFANY WILLIAMS (SHE/HER)
Client Experience Coordinator
WHAT WE DO
“You yearn for some easy days, for a path that is not so steep. But it is the strenuous climbs that take you ever upward; closer and closer to the Summit.”
Our Mission
Summit’s Edge is committed to providing holistic, restorative, and evidence-based treatment of mental illness, inclusive of all populations. We are passionate about the advocacy of mental wellness, creating connections within the mental health community, as well as the professional growth and development of our employees in order to best serve our clients.
What’s in a Name?
What’s in a name? “Summit’s Edge” refers to the resting place between the base and the peak of the mountain. It’s the place where you can step out, find rest from the climb and see how far you’ve come and how far you have left to go. The choice is yours, the honor to climb alongside you is ours.
ABOUT THE OWNERS
Daron and Brett Elam are the proud Owners of Summit's Edge, LLC. Together, they have worked hard to create a new concept for the provision of mental health. They have a tremendous passion for promoting positive change and work to strive for the highest standard of care for mental health and stand out experience for clients. Brett and Daron have been married for 11 years and are parents to two vibrant children. They take great pride in the fact that they are able to run the business and their household side-by-side.
Community
Stay up-to-date on our movement through the greater Atlanta area as we make it our mission to lead the charge on positive social change in our community.
Schedule Today
Ready to get started? We do accept insurance and our self-pay rates range from $140-$165 depending on client needs and therapist availability. Schedule your first appointment today with our stellar staff. We can't wait to partner with you on your journey towards mental wellness.
We are ready to start when you are!