Michael Astree, Psychotherapist in Marietta, 30064

Michael-Renee Astree, RN, LPC, DCC

Profession(s):
Psychotherapy, Counseling, Nursing
License Status:
I'm a licensed professional.
Primary License:
LPC

My Approach to Helping

I believe it is important to meet people where they are emotionally. Most people want to be the best they can be. Through psychotherapy, or counseling, people can reach their full potential. As a therapist, I act as a guide on that journey to self-fulfillment. I am willing to walk with people on their journey to find out who they are and why they matter in the universe. I encourage everyone I work with to embrace their power and stand on their truth.

More Info About My Practice

I accept most insurance carriers and Medicaid. I offer a sliding fee scale if necessary. I have specialty training in Christian sex therapy, hypnosis, distance counseling (online), and equine facilitated psychotherapy (with horses). I offer evening and weekend appointments as well.

What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist

Being a therapist is a humbling experience of which I am honored to be a part. A psychiatric nurse saved my life after my third suicide attempt; and I decided then that I never wanted anyone to have to walk that frighteningly lonely journey by themselves. So, being a therapist allows me to create and share a safe place for people to fall, to heal, to laugh, to cry, to love, and to grow. Our mental and emotional health is priceless. Help should not be denied because of a lack of time, money, or insurance. Being in private practice allows me to be available for people in the evenings and on weekends. As a therapist, I am invited into people's deepest emotional places and I celebrate the courage it takes to let me in. Being a therapist allows me a unique view of people from both the inside and the outside. I am able to see beneath their pain, fear, and frustration; and to help them face adversity with the assurance of knowing they are not alone. As a therapist, I am given an opportunity to help people find the cold water of hope in the depths of Hell and watch them rise from the ashes, like the Phoenix, when they find their wings and learn how to soar. Therapy is not a job for me; it's a calling.

On the Fence About Going to Therapy?

For those therapy seekers who are "on the fence" about starting therapy, my first question is "Why?" There are three common answers to that question: "I don't want people to think I am weak," "I tried therapy before and it didn't help," or "I don't really have any serious issues/I'm not crazy." For those that think going to therapy is a sign of weakness, I say just the opposite. It takes a much stronger person to admit that he or she has a problem and needs help to fix it than it does to act as though nothing is wrong while you slowly implode. For those that have had a bad experience, I remind you that every therapist is different and you have the right to choose whom you see. Make sure that you are comfortable and ask as many questions as you like until you get comfortable with your therapist. If the vibe doesn't feel right after a few sessions, try another therapist. I encourage you to be honest about what you are looking for in a therapist and what your expectations are for him or her. Finally, to those that think you have to be "crazy" to come to therapy, I beg to differ. As much as psychotherapy helps with depression, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, etc, it can also help with communication skills, rekindling romance, maintaining a good marriage, learning how to forgive, changing a career focus, etc. So, give therapy a chance to help you with whatever problems or personal improvements with which you may need help.