Giovanna De Almeida, MFT (she/her)
Couples Therapist in Atlanta
My Approach To Couples Therapy
Do you feel like things are not the same in your relationship anymore? Perhaps it is the stress, the conflicting schedules, the constant feeling of tiredness, or difficulty communicating. You still remember the days when you felt truly connected and happy, but you are unsure what changed. Seeking help feels scary, and you are not sure where to start.
My goal as a couples therapist is to facilitate healing, increase intimacy, and strengthen the bonds between family members. Through the evidence-based Gottman Method, I can teach you how to better communicate and problem-solve. I can also help promote affection and an increased sense of connection in your relationship once again.
The path towards not feeling “alone in your relationship” starts now.
My Experience
From my background completing a B.A. in Psychology (and a sociology minor) at the University of Virginia and an M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy at Auburn University, I have worked with clients from diverse cultures, races, ages, as well as gender expressions and identities. I conduct sessions in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, and by emphasizing an approach of unconditional positive regard, I provide clients with a safe space to work on their relationships. I also employ techniques stemming from Structural Family Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Play Therapy--as informed by my previous education.
Outside work, I am passionate about traveling, hiking, and playing squash. You will also often find me watching cute animal videos in my spare time.
Working with LGBTQIA+ couples
I'm a dedicated and versatile individual committed to making a positive impact in both my professional and service endeavors. I take pride in being Safe Zone certified as well as an LGBTQIA+ ally.
At the Auburn University Marriage and Family Therapy Center, one of my focuses was providing therapeutic services to couples and individuals going through experiences such as coming out and dealing with gender dysphoria. Understanding the unique challenges faced by these clients, I strive to create a nurturing and non-judgmental space for them to express their thoughts and feelings openly and securely.
My approach emphasizes empathy and validation, empowering individuals within a couple unit to feel like their most truly authentic selves. By addressing the emotional needs of each partner, I work towards creating a foundation of trust and support that can lead to positive growth and lasting changes within the relationship system. I leave it up to my clients whether or not they wish to include other family members in the therapeutic process.
Availability
Typically Sundays- Thursdays
Afternoons and evenings
Poncey Highlands office
Consultation
Schedule a complimentary consultation (20 min, video) or an in-person or video session for the initial evaluation (80 min)
Fees
I charge $150 per couples session (80 min). I am “out of network” and do not accept insurance.
Questions?
I can be reached at Giovanna@CounselingATL.com and would be more than happy to answer your questions!