Life can be hard! Sometimes life deals us a set of circumstances that we aren’t sure how to navigate. Sometimes life is just confusing, and it can be hard to make sense of it all. You may find yourself asking questions like “how did I get here” and “how do I move forward”. There is where counseling could come in as a tool-- one of the biggest benefits of therapy is having a safe place to share how you are really doing and feeling.
I value creating a safe place space to understand your true identity and thrive in your current situation. I believe that my clients are experts on themselves and collaborate with you in our work together.
You don’t have to walk alone! It is my desire that clients can learn to be present in their daily lives and persevere with hope for the future. I consider it a honor to help clients hold even that mustard seed of hope and watch it grow. I have specialized training in trauma, EMDR, life transitions, grief and loss, and anxiety work.

Joy Fortanbary completed a Masters of Arts in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling from Richmont Graduate University and also holds a B.A. in Public Relations Journalism from the University of South Carolina. She is an Associate Professional Counselor by the Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, And Marriage and Family Therapists. She is also a National Certified Counselor by the National Board of Certified Counselors and an ASAT-Candidate from the International Institute of Trauma and Addictions Specialists. Additionally, Joy has specialized training in EMDR, a therapeutic technique designed to help people struggling to process trauma.

Joy is passionate about partnering with individuals on the journey towards interpersonal healing that leads to generational change. She believes the most powerful growth happens in the context of relationship, which leads to her commitment to provide a genuine space marked by curiosity and collaboration.

Joy enjoys working with individuals navigating various challenges such as trauma, sex and love addictions, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and relationship conflict. Joy utilizes an integrative and holistic approach in the process of helping clients reach their personalized goals and lead a life more by design and not by default.

Joy gained valuable experience working with both individuals and groups in private practice and treatment center settings. Prior to counseling, she worked with leaders to establish national and global organizational partnerships at a large nonprofit in the Atlanta area. In her free time, Joy enjoys traveling, yoga, and spending time with her family.

Do you find yourself spiraling with anxiety? If you're grappling with excessive worry about your health, experiencing panic attacks, or struggling with uncontrollable thoughts about everyday things, you're not alone. These challenges can be incredibly overwhelming and often lead to seeking constant reassurance from loved ones or compulsively searching for answers online. Maybe you’ve tried distracting yourself or avoiding situations, but nothing seems to provide lasting relief. It’s understandable to feel frustrated and exhausted by these cycles of anxiety.

I’m here to help. As a licensed therapist with a focus on anxiety disorders, I understand the complexities of these experiences. I use evidence-based approaches that are the gold standard of treatment.

If you're ready to break free from the cycle of anxiety and find meaningful relief, let's work together. My goal is to support you in building resilience and developing strategies tailored to your unique needs. Take the first step towards a more balanced life. Reach out today to schedule a consultation. You deserve to find peace and relief.

Catherine attended the University of North Georgia both as an undergraduate and graduate student, earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and her Master of Science in Counseling. She is an Associate Professional Counselor as well as a National Certified Counselor. Catherine received specialized training in addictions as a part of her program, which qualified her to receive the title of a Certified Addictions Counselor – Level 1. Catherine is also a member of the American Counseling Association. She has worked with children, teenagers, and adults on a variety of presenting issues. Catherine has a desire to help those struggling with anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, as well as those impacted by substance abuse. She is particularly interested in helping those who are struggling to find meaning in their lives and joining alongside them in their spiritual journey. She seeks to meet clients where they are in their life circumstances and to help them accomplish their therapy goals. Catherine’s hope is to use her therapeutic bond with her clients to assist them in encountering and accepting themselves fully, leading them to experience authentic and free lives. She also utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques as well as a Family Systems approach. Catherine is trained in Motivational Interviewing and incorporates it into therapy at different stages to assess for and encourage client progress.