About the Center

The Smoke Rise Counseling and Care Center was created to provide compassionate support for children and teens facing growing mental health challenges in today’s world. Recognizing the increasing need for counseling services among young people in our church and community, we established this center as a place of healing, hope, and guidance. Through the generosity of the Watkins Family Foundation and the commitment of our congregation, we are able to offer professional counseling in a safe and welcoming environment.

What began as a ministry focused on youth has now expanded to serve individuals and families at every stage of life, including adults and senior adults. Whether navigating personal struggles, family transitions, or the challenges of aging, the Smoke Rise Counseling and Care Center is here to walk alongside those in need. Rooted in compassion, our center is a place where all are welcome to find support, renewal, and care.

Our Counselors

Eliza Sanford

LPC, NCC, MS

Background

Eliza is accepting new clients in-person or telehealth services at the Smoke Rise Counseling Location. Eliza completed her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mercer University. She has her National Counseling Certification (NCC) and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Eliza has previous work experience within a variety of settings including outpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and residential. Eliza specializes in trauma informed care, eating disorder recovery, couples/ families, mood related disorders, and co-occurring disorders.

Hours

Monday: 8am – 12pm
Wednesday: 8am – 6pm
Friday: 9am – 6pm

*need 15-30 min consult for ADHD and autism evaluation*

Contact

404-388-1585
esanford@smokerisecounseling.org

Click to Schedule An Appointment

Alli Nicolais

LCSW, LMFT

Background
Alli is partnering with the Smoke Rise Counseling Center to offer counseling and care services to older adults, including those living in independent living communities or care settings as they navigate life transitions and the anxiety, depression, and other adjustment issues that may arise.  She enjoys working with clients who want to learn to be more intentional with their time, relationships, behaviors, spirituality, and/or life direction. Alli has experience working with individuals and couples.
 
At The University of Georgia, Alli studied Clinical Social Work with a special focus in Marriage and Family Therapy. I licensed as both a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). She also has additional training in Brainspotting and EMDR.
Hours
Tuesday – 10am to 1pm In-person, 3pm to 5pm Online
Wednesday – 10am to 1pm In-person, 3pm to 5pm Online
Thursdays – 10am to 1pm In-person, 3pm to 5pm Online
Contact

Ellayah Persons

LAPC, NCC

Background
Ellayah is accepting new clients for in-person and telehealth services. She works primarily with adolescents and teens navigating eating disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. Ellayah is an Associate Professional Counselor (APC) and is committed to providing compassionate, developmentally appropriate care tailored to each client’s unique needs.

Ellayah has experience supporting teens and adults in building emotional regulation skills, improving self-esteem, and developing healthier coping strategies. She takes a collaborative, strengths-based approach to therapy and values creating a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood.

Hours
Tuesday: 10am to 1pm In-person, 3pm to 5pm Online
Wednesday: 10am to 1pm In-person, 3pm to 5pm Online
Thursdays: 10am to 1pm In-person, 3pm to 5pm Online
Contact
Click to Schedule An Appointment

Financial Assistance

Smoke Rise Counseling and Care Center is a ministry of Smoke Rise Baptist Church, which is a registered non-profit. The center offers financial assistance for the families of children, teens, and young adults who need counseling services. If you are considering counseling for a child, teen or young adult but are delaying due to financial concerns, we encourage you to reach out to one of our counselors to inquire about the availability of financial aid to assist with costs.

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