Hi, I’m Zeynep! I believe that healing begins with authentic connection, creativity, and compassion. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, supportive space where children, teens, and young adults can explore their emotions, develop self-awareness, and build resilience. I use an integrative approach rooted in Adlerian theory, which emphasizes understanding each person within their unique social and family context. This means I focus on helping clients build a sense of belonging, develop purpose, and strengthen their confidence and self-worth. I blend this foundation with play therapy, expressive arts, and evidence-based techniques to help clients feel understood, empowered, and capable of growth.

I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Georgia State University, where I completed specialized training through the Georgia State Play Therapy Institute. Before becoming a counselor, I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Georgia. My early work as a school-based therapist gave me the privilege of supporting students with a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral concerns, and family transitions. This experience strengthened my ability to connect with diverse populations and taught me to remain calm and compassionate while managing crisis situations.

I have also pursued extensive advanced training to enhance my clinical skills. I am trained in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anxiety disorders, helping clients face fears and reduce compulsive behaviors through supportive, evidence-based interventions. I have completed ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) and Suicide2Hope, which deepened my understanding of suicide prevention, safety planning, and post-crisis recovery work. In addition, I have received specialized training in Treating the Traumatized Child, which provides a framework for understanding how trauma impacts a child’s development and for using creative, attachment-based interventions to foster healing. My background also includes training in sand tray therapy, expressive arts therapy, and adventure therapy, allowing me to integrate hands-on, developmentally appropriate methods into my work.

In therapy, I focus on helping clients strengthen emotional regulation, improve communication, and build healthy coping strategies. I especially enjoy working with children and adolescents as they learn to navigate friendships, self-esteem, and family dynamics, as well as supporting young adults managing anxiety, perfectionism, and life transitions. Whether through play, creative expression, or reflective conversation, my approach is always collaborative, warm, and tailored to each client’s unique needs.

Outside the therapy room, I’m a proud University of Georgia graduate who loves to cheer on the Dawgs. I enjoy staying active, working out, playing tennis or pickleball, and spending time with my dog and cat. I believe that balance, humor, and authenticity are essential both in life and in therapy, and I strive to bring that same energy into every session.

If you’re looking for a therapist who combines warmth, evidence-based training, and a creative, engaging approach, I’d love to walk alongside you or your child on the journey toward growth and healing.

Zeyenp is under the supervision of Kristina Murr, LPC, CPCS.