Will Atkins, M.A.

Licensed Professional Counselor
Director of Operations & Clinical Services

“The act of revealing oneself fully to another and still being accepted may be the major vehicle of therapeutic help.” -Irvin D. Yalom

Without a trusting, open, and honest relationship, therapeutic interventions often fall flat. For this reason, Will focuses on the development of a solid relationship as a foundation for the therapeutic journey. Many of the struggles of humanity are related to big picture questions. Who am I? What is my purpose? Where can I find meaning in my life? For this reason, a primary focus of Will’s therapy sessions is centered around searching for meaning and purpose in our lives. This meaning can be found in moments of joy, sadness, despair, and fear. When we can find meaning for our experiences, humans are extremely resilient in walking through whatever struggles they are faced with. First and foremost, Will meets with clients to determine what their hopes and goals are to ensure all concerns are addressed. Based on these goals, Will utilizes various therapeutic interventions while maintaining an existential framework. He utilizes ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), person-centered, CBT, and mindfulness interventions throughout the therapeutic process.

Will received his Master of Arts in Counseling from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He went to the University of Georgia for his Bachelor of Science in psychology. Prior to joining the Summit, he worked as a Clinical Director and therapist at a non-profit residential addiction treatment center. He also served as a Director of an outpatient mental health treatment center. In these roles, he helped to carry out the mission of the organization while providing direct client care to address concerns such as depression, anxiety, struggles with spirituality, substance abuse, grief, relationship conflict, and a lack of meaning in life.

When Will is not counseling, he plays and records music in a local band. He enjoys watching movies and doing photography. He has a beautiful wife, and two young children that he adores spending as much time with as possible.

Education

• Master of Arts in Counseling, University of Arkansas at Little Rock
• Bachelor of Science in Pyschology, University of Georgia

Licensure, Certifications and Professional Affiliations

• Licensed Professional Counselor, Georgia
• Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor