Tahja Barnes, APC
Now welcoming new clients ✨
Big feelings, creativity, and growth welcome here—Tahja creates a warm, playful space where kids and teens can feel safe, seen, and supported.
Hi, I’m Tahja (she/her)! I’m an Associate Professional Counselor, a first-generation therapist, and a Black woman who brings warmth, creativity, and curiosity into the therapy space. I work with kids, teens, and adults who are navigating things like ADHD, anxiety, low mood, behavioral challenges, and self-esteem concerns. As the eldest child and a proud Gen Z therapist, I value authenticity, collaboration, and creating spaces where clients feel safe to be themselves.
Outside of therapy, I’m a television, film, and theatre fan, an avid book lover, a former dancer, a music fan, and a board game enthusiast. I love stories, creativity, and play—and those interests naturally show up in how I connect with clients and build relationships in therapy.
In therapy, my style is warm, playful, and collaborative, grounded in kindness and the belief that everyone has the capacity to grow. I take time to build a strong foundation with each client so they feel comfortable, accepted, and supported from the start. Sessions are tailored to each person’s unique needs, and I often incorporate client interests into our work—whether that’s through conversation, drawing, games, movement, or creative activities. I believe that when clients feel genuinely cared for and understood, meaningful progress can happen.
I work primarily with children and teens, and I place a strong emphasis on building trust and rapport first. I like to get to know what my younger clients enjoy before jumping into the harder topics, because feeling safe makes it easier to open up. I often use play and creativity to explore emotions and practice new skills in ways that feel natural and engaging. I also collaborate closely with parents, while making sure kids and teens maintain a sense of autonomy and ownership in their sessions.
You might hear me say things like “You are growing and learning every day,” “Would you like to talk it out or draw it out?” or “Would playing make it easier to talk about this?” I often use metaphors—like anger being a balloon that keeps filling up—to help clients understand big emotions in a way that feels accessible. During hard moments, I focus on validating feelings, making space for emotions, and gently reflecting on the progress clients have already made.
I earned my Master of Science in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Clayton State University and currently practice as an Associate Professional Counselor. My work is guided by compassion, safety, empathy, authenticity, humor, encouragement, optimism, and curiosity, and by the belief that therapy is a journey we take together.
Guiding Vibe: Therapy is a journey—and I’m here to walk with you every step of the way.
Starting therapy can feel intimidating, and it’s completely normal to feel nervous. This is a space where every part of you is welcome, without judgment. When you’re ready, I’ll be here—ready to walk alongside you toward healing, growth, and greater well-being.
