Get to Know Anna Gould, LAPC
How did I get into this career?
I decided to become a counselor as a result of my own personal exploration, healing, and growth, during years of consistently attending both individual and couples counseling. We never discussed or participated in therapy when I was growing up, but I had a natural ability to imagine myself in someone else's place, along with a curiosity to learn more about people and their family history, traditions, relationships, etc.
I was in my mid-40s when I went back to school to pursue my Bachelor degree. It was during this time of trying to figure out "what I wanted to be when I grew up" that my counselor and I discussed career ideas, explored talents and abilities, and made space for me to truly consider what I felt "called" to do. This happened slowly and consistently as I found myself in a safe space, positioned on a comfortable couch, running my fingers over the fringed ends of an incredibly soft green blanket. A couple of months before completing my Bachelors program I began the process of applying for a Masters program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and the rest, as they say, is history.
What is my favorite thing about counseling?
My favorite thing about counseling is connecting with my clients. I believe that the power of story is incredible and consider it a privilege to sit with you and hear your story. I recently read this quote from K.J. Ramsey, "Two things bring us back from the bottom of stress: breath, and the attuned, compassionate presence of someone else." This "ministry of presence" is powerful, and integral to building a strong therapeutic relationship that allows clients to meet their goals and to move towards greater overall health and wellness.
What do I like to do when I’m not at Atlanta Wellness Collective?
I love to spend time with family and friends. My husband and I have two grown children and a grandson who helps me keep my football and basketball skills honed. We’ve lived in the Kennesaw/Acworth area for more than 25 years and love to call this area home.
I enjoy cycling on the Silver Comet Trail and finding new restaurants and coffee houses to visit. A few of my favorite things are: music, reading, the beach, and a good cup of coffee. I highly recommend The Lazy Labrador Coffee House in Kennesaw. I’m also a huge lover of dogs, especially boxers. I'm part of a local church community where I get to work with middle school students who always teach me so much.
What do I hope for my clients?
My hope for my clients is to provide a safe space where each person is met with genuine compassion and curiosity. I hope that clients feel accepted and open to share freely without fear of judgment or the need to qualify or minimize life experiences. This is the type of space I was hoping for before I began therapy for the first time many years ago. It’s also important to me that I gain an understanding of my clients through their unique cultural lens. There is no "one size fits all" and my hope is to meet each client where they are and to work together to help each person identify and reach personal goals.
Request an appointment with Anna via telehealth or in person at our Marietta office.
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