Today we’d like to introduce you to Akila Hill.
Akila, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My professional journey did not begin in therapy. Initially, I planned to become an eighth-grade math teacher. However, during my undergraduate studies, I took a psychology course that completely changed the trajectory of my career. I became deeply fascinated with understanding people—how they think, how they heal, and how relationships shape our lives. Looking back, it felt like a natural fit. I had always been the person people gravitated toward for advice, encouragement, and support.
After earning my associate’s degree in Teacher Education from Georgia Perimeter College, I continued my undergraduate studies at Clayton State University, where I majored in Psychology and Human Services with a minor in Sociology. As I explored the helping professions more deeply, I realized that pursuing licensure would require graduate-level training. Initially, I considered becoming a school counselor, but as I researched different specialties within the field, I discovered marriage and family therapy. I was immediately drawn to its systemic approach and the opportunity to work not only with individuals but also with couples and families.
I went on to earn my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and since graduating in 2018, I have been honored to work with individuals, couples, and families navigating a variety of life challenges. My approach focuses on creating a safe, judgment-free space where clients can be their authentic selves while working toward healing, growth, and stronger connections with both themselves and others.
While pursuing my education and building my career, I was also raising three beautiful children, who are now 18, 17, and 15. Becoming a mother while navigating graduate school and professional development was both challenging and incredibly rewarding. My children have always been my greatest source of motivation and inspiration. Every milestone I have achieved has been driven by a desire to model perseverance, purpose, and the belief that with dedication and faith, it is possible to build a meaningful life and career.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road has certainly not been easy. From starting a family soon after high school to navigating financial hardships and complex family dynamics, my journey has been filled with challenges. I have walked through seasons of marriage and divorce, experienced deep grief, and faced personal health struggles. Each of those experiences tested me, but they also strengthened me. Through it all, I learned to endure, to persevere, and to rise stronger. Resilience has become one of the defining qualities of my story.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My private practice, Mending Relationships Counseling Services, is centered on helping individuals, couples, and families build healthier, more meaningful relationships—both with others and with themselves. My work focuses on supporting clients through life transitions, relationship challenges, emotional healing, and personal growth. I provide therapy for individuals navigating stress, anxiety, grief, and identity development, as well as couples who are working to rebuild trust, improve communication, and strengthen emotional connection.
One of the things that sets my practice apart is my systemic approach to therapy. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I don’t just look at individuals in isolation; I look at the broader systems and relationships that shape people’s experiences. I often integrate evidence-based approaches, including the Gottman Method for couples, to help clients develop practical tools for improving communication, resolving conflict, and fostering deeper emotional intimacy.
Another aspect of my work that I value deeply is creating a space where people feel safe to be authentic. Many clients come to therapy feeling unheard, misunderstood, or overwhelmed. My goal is to provide a supportive, judgment-free environment where individuals and couples can explore their experiences, gain clarity, and begin the process of healing and growth.
Brand-wise, what I am most proud of is the mission behind Mending Relationships. The name reflects the heart of the work I do—helping people repair, strengthen, and reimagine their relationships. That includes romantic relationships, family relationships, and perhaps most importantly, the relationship individuals have with themselves.
What I want readers to know is that therapy is not just for moments of crisis. It can also be a powerful space for growth, self-discovery, and intentional change. My goal is to empower clients with the insight, tools, and confidence they need to build healthier relationships and live more aligned, fulfilling lives.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Resilience has been one of the most important qualities contributing to my success. My journey has included many challenges and life transitions, but each experience strengthened my determination to keep moving forward. That resilience has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally, remain committed to my purpose, and continue showing up for the people and communities I serve.
Pricing:
- Sessions start at $175 for 50 minutes
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mendingrelationshipscounseling.com/
- Instagram: Akila_lmft
