Who We Are

Our mission is to guide individuals on a path to inner peace and emotional balance.

Grounded in empathy and evidence-based approaches, our approach is centered on cultivating ataraxia – a state of unconditional tranquility. We are dedicated to empowering individuals to navigate life's challenges with both compassion and strength.

We believe therapy is for EVERYONE and are committed to creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore, heal, and grow.  

Meet the Team

  • Abbey Lanford, M.S., RMHCI

    FOUNDER, OWNER, AND THERAPIST

    Launched Ataraxia Counseling in March of 2024. Specializes in women’s mental health, adolescent counseling, body image and disordered eating, anxiety, trauma, and couples counseling.

  • Caige McAuliffe M.S., LMHCI

    CO-OWNER AND THERAPIST

    Specializes in substance abuse, men’s mental health, adolescent and family counseling, mood disorders, first responders, and trauma.

  • Christine Forge M.S.N., AAPRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC

    PSYCHIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONER

    Provide psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults. This includes doing initial assessments and diagnosis, medication management, and case work in collaboration with the therapists.

  • Christiana Keith, M.S., RCSWI

    SOCIAL WORKER, CLINICIAN
    Specializes in identity exploration, trauma, and feelings of belonging for individuals ages 10 and up with experience in community-based organizations. An advocate for positive youth development in challenging circumstances.

 FAQs

  • It is a great question and one that many people have. Our best, and favorite answer, is that everyone could use and benefit from therapy. You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from talking with someone. Therapy is a space where you can sort through your thoughts, navigate challenges, and work on becoming the best version of yourself. Whether you’re dealing with stress, relationship struggles, big life changes, or just feeling stuck, therapy is for anyone who wants support, clarity, or growth. Everyone deserves a little extra help sometimes, and it’s okay to take that step for yourself.
    *even therapist need therapists!

  • We are dedicated to high quality mental healthcare that’s customized to the needs of our clients, not the needs of insurance companies. Therefore, we do not accept insurance and are considered out-of-network providers (this includes psychiatry). As a result, our focus is 100% on you and your goals.
    *see next question for information on reimbursement for out-of-network services.

  • If your insurance provides out-of-network coverage for services, you could be reimbursed anywhere from 50%-80% of each session cost. Services are paid for out of pocket and then reimbursements are made directly to you by your insurance company. Please contact your insurance for more information about your coverage.

  • Clients are encouraged to attend weekly sessions at the beginning of therapy because consistent sessions build momentum and help establish a strong therapeutic foundation. Weekly sessions allow clients and therapists to develop trust, address challenges promptly, and work toward goals with continuity. This frequency helps clients stay engaged, make progress, and more effectively integrate insights and skills into their daily lives. As therapy progresses and clients achieve stability, sessions can often transition to a less frequent schedule based on individual needs.

  • Our psychiatry services provide personalized medication management to support your mental health journey. During your initial session, our psychiatric nurse practitioner will conduct a thorough assessment to understand your needs, history, and goals. Together, you’ll explore whether medication might be helpful as part of your treatment plan. Follow-up appointments focus on monitoring progress, adjusting medications if needed, and addressing any concerns.

    They work collaboratively with our therapy team to ensure integrated care, but you can also access psychiatry services independently if you're not in therapy. Sessions are $250 and available via telehealth or in-office for your convenience.

  • Couples counseling is for anyone in a relationship—whether you're dating, engaged, married, or long-term partners. It’s helpful for addressing communication issues, rebuilding trust, navigating major life changes, or enhancing intimacy and connection.

    In sessions, the therapist acts as a neutral guide to help both partners express their perspectives, identify patterns, and develop tools to improve the relationship.

    Common issues include:

    • Communication problems

    • Conflict resolution

    • Trust and infidelity

    • Intimacy concerns

    • Parenting challenges

    • Premarital preparation

  • Yes, couples counseling can be very helpful if you’re considering separation or divorce. It provides a supportive space to explore your feelings, improve communication, and gain clarity about the future of your relationship. Counseling can help you work through conflicts, address unresolved issues, and determine whether to rebuild the partnership or separate amicably. Even if separation is the decision, therapy can guide you in navigating the process respectfully and collaboratively, especially if children or shared responsibilities are involved.

  • Absolutely! We are experienced and affirming of all relationships, including LGBTQIA+ couples, polyamorous relationships, and other non-traditional partnerships.

  • Trauma-informed yoga is a practice designed to create a safe, supportive environment for individuals who have experienced trauma. It focuses on gentle, mindful movement, breathwork, and relaxation techniques to help regulate the nervous system, release tension, and promote healing. In trauma-informed yoga, the emphasis is on safety, healing, and grounding, allowing participants to explore their bodies and emotions at their own pace without feeling overwhelmed or triggered.

    This practice acknowledges the impact trauma can have on the body and mind, and it offers a non-judgmental space where individuals can heal in a way that feels safe for them. Techniques like Yin Yoga, Reiki, and sound baths are often used within trauma-informed yoga to deepen relaxation and facilitate emotional release. The goal is to help restore balance, foster a sense of calm, and support individuals on their healing journey.