ABOUT THE THERAPIST

Research consistently shows that the therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest predictors of meaningful change, which is why it’s important to find a therapist you feel comfortable with and whose approach aligns with how you think and engage.

Below is an overview of my background, training, and how I approach this work.

 

Sera Turgut, M.Ed., LPC, NCC, CAS

 
 

Perspective

  • Humanistic

  • Existential

  • Attachment-based

  • Psychodynamic

  • Systems-informed

  • Multicultural

Approach

  • Collaborative

  • Emotionally-focused

  • Holistic

  • Integrative

Methods

  • Directive

  • Solution-focused

  • Psychoeducational

  • Cognitive

  • Behavioral

My work is intentionally free-flowing, unrushed, and flexible. Sessions aren’t rigid or formulaic — they’re thoughtful, in-depth conversations that allow space to slow down, notice what’s really happening, and identify the patterns that may be keeping you stuck or cycling through the same struggles.

I work in a direct, engaged, and honest way. That means I’m not passive, and I won’t simply nod along or offer surface-level reassurance. Sessions tend to involve collaborative, active dialogue, clear feedback, and practical guidance alongside reflection.

A core part of my approach includes psychoeducation. I believe understanding how and why things work — biologically, neurologically, interpersonally, and psychologically — gives you lasting tools, not just short-term relief. I also find the diagnostic process and having clear language for complex experiences to be extremely valuable, as it can bring clarity, coherence, and relief to things that may have felt confusing or overwhelming. Much of the work involves identifying patterns across thoughts, emotions, behaviors, relationships, and life experience, and looking at how these areas interact over time rather than addressing concerns in isolation. When relevant and within scope, I also incorporate discussion of nutrition and lifestyle factors, recognizing their foundational role in mental health and overall well-being.

Depth-oriented work isn’t always comfortable, but it’s often where the most meaningful shifts happen. I’m comfortable having difficult conversations or offering challenging perspectives when they serve the work. When something matters, we don’t skim it — we go where it leads. This style tends to be a strong fit for people who want more than coping strategies or quick fixes, people who are reflective, curious, open to nuance, and interested in developing deeper self-awareness. If you want to be challenged, to think critically about your patterns, and to create meaningful, sustainable change, this work often resonates deeply. This approach is best suited for those who want an active, engaged therapeutic process rather than a solely supportive one, and who are willing to participate thoughtfully in the work.

POPULATION SERVED

Adults (21 and older)

SPECIALTIES

I work with individuals navigating a wide range of concerns, including:

  • Neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD, OCD)

  • Anxiety and mood disorders

  • Chronic illness and chronic pain

  • Codependency and relational patterns

  • Narcissistic abuse and emotionally abusive dynamics

  • Boundaries, communication, and interpersonal conflict

  • Identity, self-worth, and self-development

  • Life transitions and feeling “stuck”

  • Men’s and women’s issues

  • Stress and emotion regulation

  • Health-informed, non-pharmacological, and holistic perspectives

For a more comprehensive list of areas I support, please visit the About Therapy page.

CAREER

I hold a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have over a decade of experience working with adults across a wide range of concerns. My clinical work is informed by specialized training and experience across outpatient, residential, and intensive treatment settings.

TRAINING

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy Foundational Training™

    • Level 3 - Comprehensive Training in Standard DBT

    • Provided by Marsha Linehan’s Behavioral Tech

    • Trained by Adam Payne, PhD

  • Emotionally Focused Therapy Externship

    • Trained by Sue Johnson, PhD, leading developer of EFT and founder/director of the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT), and Michael Barnett, LPC, founder of Atlanta Center for Emotionally Focused Therapy (ACEFT)

  • Certified Autism Specialist (CAS)

    • Specialized training and experience working with autistic adults

MEMBERSHIPS

  • Licensed Professional Counselors Association of Georgia (LPCA)