Inspiring Conversations with Olga A. Attebery of Tranquil Hope Psychotherapy

Today we’d like to introduce you to Olga A. Attebery.

Hi Olga A., we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I came to this profession later in life. Through my own trajectory working through difficult family dynamics, relationship betrayal, and navigating my cultural identity, I realized my calling to be a therapist. However, it was not going to be easy. I had not gone to college. So, with some guidance from my therapist, I enrolled in college for my undergraduate degree at 45 years old with a lot of trepidation and a dream to get my masters degree and become a therapist to help others navigate some of paths that I had traversed. I surprised myself and jumped in whole-heartedly to graduate summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a certification in Global Studies, and a Latin American Studies certificate. The momentum carried me through graduate school where I earned a masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy. During graduate school, I gained experience working with children, teens, and adults in a behavioral health hospital; and with individual adults and couples in a private practice setting. After graduation, I was employed at Aspen Grove Counseling and Wellness, a group private practice in Decatur. Upon obtaining full licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor, I founded my own solo practice, Tranquil Hope Psychotherapy. I have the privilege of working with adult individuals and couples both in person and virtually. Along the way, I have received a certification in Couples Betrayal Recovery which informs some of the most rewarding work that I do. Helping couples walk through one of the most painful and destabilizing events that can occur in a relationship.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has definitely been a bumpy road. Just applying to college was extremely intimidating. I had a belief that college was reserved for “smart people” and that did not include me. When my math placement test results were too low for admission, I was devastated. It confirmed my belief that college was not for me. However, with the urging of my husband to “find a tutor”, I was on my way. I started attending a tutoring center in my community for help getting my math proficiency where it needed to be. The scene was quite comical. Sitting in the waiting room at the tutoring center was reminiscent of the scene from the movie Elf where Elf is sitting in the doctor’s waiting room amongst several children. I felt just like Elf in that waiting room — extremely out of place. Yet, after a few weeks I was able to retake the math placement test with vastly improved results. I was on my way.

Another challenge was in my first semester of graduate school. My mother had come to live with me the year prior. She was disabled and needed my care. I was three months into grad school when she had a stroke and after a few weeks in the hospital came home for hospice care. Again at the urging of my husband and with the help of my sister, I continued my studies. My mother passed away three months later. The stress and grief during this time was tremendous. I am beyond grateful for the support of so many that carried my through kept the wind in my sails to not break stride in working towards my dream.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My dream from the beginning has been to provide a tranquil space in which to nurture hope. Above all, I want my clients to feel that they have a calm presence walking alongside them even when it feels like darkness is all around. They are not alone. I am there to witness their pain and help them find the light.

Sometimes the pain is searing; like when my clients have experienced betrayal. My own journey through betrayal recovery has given me a passion for working in this specialty and caused me to pursue certification in this area. I believe there is hope on the other side.

Sometimes the pain is a dull ache; like when my clients are grappling with their cultural identity. As a first-generation American and the daughter of immigrant parents from two different countries, I have experienced the low hum of tension around not quite fitting in wholly in one culture or another. I believe there can be peace in our individuality.

Part of my training has been in the integration of theology and psychology. Thereby, I am happy to integrate a client’s faith as much or as little as they desire. I am equally respectful and effective working with clients from diverse faith backgrounds as well as those who do not connect with spirituality.

Uniquely, I offer early morning appointments. My first appointment is often at 7 a.m., which is a coveted spot for those who like to meet before their work day starts.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
My courage and strong work ethic are the characteristics that are most influential in my work. My experience is evidence that I do not shy away from challenges and will work through them to achieve the desired result.

Pricing:

• $250 – Intake session (75 minute session)
• $165 – 45-50 minute session

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tranquilhopepsychotherapy.com

Image Credits
Photography: Jeremy Pentsil at Peak Focus Media
Logo and Branding: Lacey Smith at Sitesmith Studio