Feeling mentally stuck in your performance or lost without your sport? Being an athlete is a unique experience, and not everyone understands the pressure that comes with it. I specialize in working with athletes at all levels who are struggling with anxiety, depression, or identity—both in and outside of sport. Often, changes in performance are signs of broader mental health challenges that deserve holistic attention. I use evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, and DBT to help you reconnect with your strengths and rise into the best version of yourself.

I work with individuals who experience panic attacks and anxiety. If you've ever felt your chest tighten, your heart race, tunnel vision, or a sense of losing control over your body or your future—you’re not alone, and I may be able to help. Using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, DBT, and more, we’ll work together to reduce your anxiety and help you learn how to function at your best while living alongside it.

Changing schools, graduating, moving, switching jobs, experiencing loss, or navigating relationship changes—life transitions like these can be challenging to face alone. These moments often prompt us to reevaluate our priorities and sense of identity. I’m here to walk alongside you through whatever change you’re experiencing, offering support and guidance as you grow through it. Together, we’ll explore your sense of self and work to empower you to become the person you want to be—or to find the place where you truly belong. I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, ACT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, and more, to support you on this journey.

I bring nearly 10 years of experience as an Athletic Trainer in Division I athletics. Through my work in sports medicine, I’ve developed a deep passion for treating the whole person and empowering clients on their journey. I’ve witnessed firsthand how individuals can grow and thrive during life transitions when they are supported and guided with care. I understand the unique demands of athletics and how physically and mentally taxing they can be. My strong medical background also allows me to better understand chronic illnesses and conditions, as well as the powerful connection between mental and physical health.

I hold a B.S. in Athletic Training from the University of Pittsburgh and an M.S. in Exercise Science from Georgia State University, along with a Corrective Exercise Specialist certification. I have seven years of experience conducting mental health screenings and making referrals for collegiate student-athletes. Currently, I am completing my internship for a second M.S. in Mental Health Counseling at Georgia State University.

Populations & Services:

Kids struggling with transitions (family or school) Teens struggling with transitions (family or school) Teens with anxiety Teens discovering their identity Teens struggling with self-esteem Young adults with anxiety Young adults discovering their identity Young adults in life transitions Young adults struggling with self-esteem Young adults working on boundaries Adults working on boundaries Adults with anxiety Adults working on their identity Adults in life transitions Couples needing to improve communication Couples navigating chronic illness or disease

Call: 404-600-7673 or Email: mvacekcounseling@gmail.com