Hi, I’m Jessica Messler, LPC, LPMT, and I’m a compassionate and relatable therapist who brings a wealth of experience and humor to my practice. I earned my undergraduate degree in Music Therapy from the University of Georgia and followed it up with a Master’s in Professional Counseling, also from UGA (Go Dawgs!).
My academic foundation combines creativity with clinical expertise, setting the stage for a well-rounded and evidence-based approach to mental health care.
Over the years, I’ve worked in a variety of settings across all levels of care, including detox/residential programs, intensive outpatient mental health services, and substance abuse treatment. For individual therapy, I work with clients who are navigating complex trauma, learning to set boundaries, developing self-compassion and breaking down the harmful narratives that have held them back in their lives.
I’m a native Atlantan, originally from Roswell, and spent some amazing years in Athens before settling in Smyrna with my husband, our two cats, and two dogs. Our fur family includes a Border Collie/Blue Heeler mix named Midna, a Lab/Pit mix named Leia, and two cats—one of whom, Kyuubi (pronounced “QB”), often makes an appearance in my lap during virtual sessions. You won’t likely see my other cat, Charmy, unless she’s terrorizing one of the other pets.
When I’m not working with clients, I’m likely reading, watching college football, running, practicing yoga, playing Dungeons & Dragons, watching anime (I love One Piece!!), or planning my next travel adventure.
What to expect from sessions
When you begin therapy with me, here’s what you can expect: In our first session, I’ll spend time getting to know you, your background, and the reason you’re seeking therapy at this time. Together, we’ll identify goals you’d like to accomplish and start to lay the groundwork for your journey toward growth and healing. After that, we’ll set a schedule that works best for you and your needs, creating a supportive and consistent space for you to explore, process, and work toward the changes you want to see in your life.
I operate a fully virtual practice, and all sessions are conducted through a HIPAA-compliant Zoom platform, ensuring your privacy and convenience as you engage in therapy from the comfort of your own space.
You can also expect the usual presence of at least one of my four pets in our sessions, as they are frequently office buddies that keep me company throughout the day.
My Approach
My clinical perspective is shaped by a combination of a Feminist/Multicultural lens and more traditional CBT/DBT interventions. My lens is systemic and social justice oriented, so at times, we’ll process the larger macro-systems (capitalism, patriarchy, etc) that weigh on each of us and impact how we move through the world. I also use ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to help clients achieve value congruence.
Unconditional positive regard and empowerment is paramount to my approach, and it is always my goal to meet you exactly where you are, without judgment. I provide affirming care to queer, trans and gender expansive individuals, as well as neurodivergent folks, those in addiction recovery and individuals living with CPTSD.
I consider myself a “recovering perfectionist” and have a special passion for working with those who struggle with self-criticism and negative self-talk. With training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and a trauma-informed perspective, I provide a safe environment for clients to explore their past, build resilience, and create meaningful change.
When you work with me, you’ll find someone who is direct, funny, and compassionate. I aim to be as authentic as possible (I’m a human too, after all!). I’m curious and challenging, so expect a lot of questions! I love working collaboratively with my clients to shape their goals and accompany them on their journey
