Adrienne C. Davis, Ph.D. ABPP

Clinical & Forensic Psychology

Board Certified in Forensic Psychology

Feeling Lost and Confused – Bad Habits getting you down
Kids working your last nerve – Angry all the time
Relocation loneliness – Sadness you can’t shake
A Spouse you just don’t understand anymore
Fearing a career change – Grieving a loss
Trying to Sort stuff out
Emotions are out of control
Life has become dull and boring??
It’s Time to Talk About it!!

Fueled by Faith

Faith may or may not be an important part of your life,
but here are some inspiring words anyone can live by:

Romans 12: 6-8 (NLT)

6In His Grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well.
7If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well.
8If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously...
if you have the gift of showing kindness to others, do it gladly.

What Is Your Gift?

About Me

Curriculum Vitae

Dr. Davis is a licensed clinical psychologist who has been in private practice for over 30 years. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from UCLA and her doctoral degree in clinical psychology from USC in Los Angeles where she served as Associate Director of Clinical Training for 8 years and as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychology, teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in mental health law, forensic psychology, criminal behavior, abnormal psychology, community psychology, cross-cultural psychology and psychological assessment. A major focus of Dr. Davis’ clinical practice has been in forensic psychology and the evaluation of juvenile and adult offenders. Dr. Davis is Board Certified in Forensic Psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology, a distinction held by fewer than 10% of psychologists nationwide. She is licensed to practice in both California and Georgia.

In addition to forensic psychology, Dr. Davis maintains a private therapy practice to help people address the many stresses and challenges of work, relationships, life transitions and healthy living. She contends that everyone has the capacity to improve the quality of their life by learning how to face personal challenges, accept their flaws, maximize their strengths, and improve their spiritual life. She also believes that information is power and devotes time to conducting workshops and seminars on important mental health issues that are of concern in the community.

Dr. Davis was born and raised in Los Angeles and moved to Augusta, taking a position as a Forensic Evaluator at East Central Regional Hospital. Since relocating to the CSRA, Dr. Davis was highlighted on WJBF, Channel 6 News for her trip to Belize in efforts to educate teachers and social workers there about the realities of sexual exploitation of children. Dr. Davis also joined with then WJBF newscaster Freandy Clarveau on the 6pm news in addressing with viewers the problem of bullying in schools. For 2½ years, Dr. Davis was a regular guest on Helen Blocker Adams radio program, “Straight Talk on Relationships.” She was a contributing author to a local magazine, CSRA MD News and MD Journal. In November of 2017, Dr. Davis began a radio program “Your 15-minute Mental Health Moment” on WKZK Radio (103.7) in Augusta. On this program, she educates the public about interesting mental health topics.

Dr. Davis is a member of the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce. She is a member of Oakey Grove Baptist Church in Evans, GA. An avid tennis player, Dr. Davis is active in the USTA Adult Tennis Leagues. She is a member of the Atlanta Chapter of the Montford Point Marines Association Ladies Auxiliary in honor of her late father, an original Montford Point Marine, who were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2012 for their WWII service, courage and commitment to fighting a war abroad and at home.

Clinical Services

Seek Understanding, Be Open to Change, Focus on Solutions

Psychotherapy

Depression
Grief & loss
Anxiety
Stress Management
Divorce indecision
Menopausal moodiness
Career changes

Work through life transitions and challenges that impact your inner peace, emotions and relationships.

Focus on gaining insight, maximizing strengths, finding balance, making better choices

Examine your spiritual life, broaden your perspective, Reorganize your priorities

Assessment

Intelligence (IQ) testing
Academic testing
Forensic evaluations
Disability evaluations
ADHD/ADD
Personal injury
Elder competency
Psychosexual evaluations

Counseling for Adolescents

Underachievement
Delinquency
Truancy
College indecision
Bad attitude

Specialized Services

Forensic Psychology

Forensic Psychologists play an active role in the legal system, providing attorneys and judges with valuable information about the defendants who stand before them. Often times these individuals presenta complex picture with respect to the psychological factors that contributed to their legal predicament. Despite attempts to ‘profile’ individuals who commit crimes, there is no single “type” of law violator. Sometimes the people we least expect to violate the law, do so with unusual expertise and cunning. For others, their behavior might seem more predictable if we examine the psychosocial factors that are often related to crime. (read more)

Selected Mental Health

Presentations

Working with Difficult Defendants
Child Development & Delinquency:
Man, Money & Madness:
The working wounded
Compassion Fatigue among Health Care Professionals
Maximizing the Spirit of Christmas
Beating the Holiday Blues
Depression among Black Women
Team Building for Business Success
(read more)

One & You're Done

Mental Health Consultation

One 90-minute session for improved insight, direction and contentment:

(read more)

focus on ONE specific issue
short-term & solution focused
get to the point, get immediate feedback
limited paperwork, forms, contracts
an efficient use of your time

Your Mental Health

The most significant barrier to psychotherapy is NOT the cost, it’s the negative stigma associated with seeking psychotherapy services. Therefore, it is important to dispel the myths that keep people from getting the help they need.

Five Common Myths about Psychotherapy

1. Seeking the assistance of a psychologist means you are not a “good” Christian

This issue is of particular concern in what is referred to as the "Bible Belt" where it is much more common for people to seek counseling at their place of worship. As a Christian I recognize that one’s faith is certainly an important source of guidance and support. However, it is also important to recognize that God works through mental health professionals to address problematic issues, in the same way that he gives medical doctors the skills, knowledge, compassion to help those with physical illnesses. If you have concerns like this, make sure that you seek help from a therapist who shares your spiritual beliefs.

2. Being in psychotherapy will break the bank.

Most insurance companies provide coverage for mental health services. If a client does not have insurance or is not covered, an hour session with a psychologist usually costs between $100- $150. Some practitioners and community agencies offer a sliding scale depending upon what you can afford to pay. It is not unusual for mental health providers to offer less than weekly sessions, i.e. every other week, monthly, as needed, to help with the cost. In my practice, I have what I refer to as a "One and You're Done" Consultation, a single, 90-minute session for $185.00. But when you consider the cost of not seeking therapy - substance abuse, job loss, "retail therapy" - $150 for sage advice is affordable.

3. Once you start you will be in therapy for the rest of your life.

The length of time a person is in therapy varies considerably. Some people are just seeking a "second opinion", an objective opinion, and only need to come 1 or 2 times. Often times three months resolves most issues a person might be having. Seeking mental health assistance should not feel like the end of the world.

4. Seeking mental health services means you are “crazy”, weak and cannot handle your own problems.

This is a common myth, especially, I hate to say, among men. The fact is that most (80%) people who seek mental health services are depressed, a condition that is as easy to treat as it is common. Actually, it takes a lot of strength to admit that you are struggling, challenged and need someone to talk to. This is especially true for individuals who are taking anti-depressant medications. The combination of medication and therapy is highly effective treatment.

5. Talking to a therapist is no different than talking about your troubles with a good friend.

It is true that a competent therapist provides a warm, supportive environment that feels like you are talking with a good friend however, a therapist’s training and experience enables her to provide a wealth of information and feedback that your good friend may not be able to. In addition, a good friend isn't always honest with you, often tries to make you feel better, so is hesitant to be confrontational or to hurt your feelings. Sometimes your friend doesn’t even know what to say!

Dr. Davis On Air

“Your 15-Minute Mental Health Moment”

In November of 2017, Dr. Davis began a weekly radio program on which she discusses a variety of topics related to understanding and maintaining your mental or psychological health. Her program was broadcast on WKZK Radio in Augusta every Saturday morning. Professional obligations required that she suspend her broadcast during the summer but she intends to resume it in January of 2019. You can listen to some of her broadcasts below. If you have any suggestions about other topics you would like to hear her discuss, please email her at drdavisconsulting54@gmail.com

Understanding Mental Health & Mental Illness

Myths & Fallacies About Psychotherapy

Coping with Adversity

Letting Go Requires Change

Maintaining a Spirit of Thanks

Family Dynamics during the Holiday Season

Maintaining New Year's Resolutions

February, the Month of Love

Spring, the Season of New Beginnings

Masked Depression

Emotional Intimacy

The Challenge of Forgiveness

Youth Mental Health

How to Keep Your Child Out Of the Juvenile Justice System

I have spent most of my 34 years of practice evaluating both youth and adults who have been involved in the criminal justice system. I have observed that there are some very simple ways in which parents can keep their children from getting into trouble with the law: (read more)

Is your child really ready
to go away to college??

As a student's last year of high school begins, both students and parents consider where they will be attending college next year. Parents are eager for their child to pursue higher education, to make plans for a career, and students are eager to leave home and experience for the first time what it's like being their own person and making their own decisions. (read more)

Client Testimonials

“Dr. Davis was always there for me, to guide me through the biggest trials and decisions of my life.” Jonathan

“Dr. Davis is calming and her words are exactly what you need to hear at the precise moment. . .she is very knowledgeable, perceptive, honest, a mentor and inspirational, but most of all caring.” Tammy

“Dr. Davis doesn’t just listen to me with her ears, she listens with her heart. She encourages me when I want to give up and never judges me. She treats my mental state but most importantly she lifts me up spiritually.” Lynn

“I just want to thank Dr. Davis for her kindness and understanding; she was there when I needed her the most and I truly appreciate that.” JY

“Dr. Davis is very compassionate and easy to talk to. She is a great listener and gives wonderful advice and feedback. . .she gave me tips on how to get through the loss of a family member. AC

“I would highly recommend Dr. Davis because she really listens, she is genuinely caring and thoughtful but she doesn’t just take your side, she gives you honest, balanced feedback; she is fair. Also, she has a good sense of children, you can tell that she cares very much for them and understands their special needs and feelings.” GB

“I found Dr. Davis through a referral from a male therapist. I was in search of a female therapist for my particular issues, someone who was easy to talk to rather than stiff and formal. She fit that description perfectly. What I liked most about her style was that her interesting perspectives and gracious personality made it easy for me to relax and share the truth of my issues. I felt supported, and always looked forward to our next meeting.” I highly recommend her! Ann

“Dr. Davis is very professional and compassionate; I felt that my case would stay confidential and that helped me to open up about my depression; If I need to talk, she is always there. Dr. Davis has God in her heart; I always felt like we had that in common; she always asked me if I had been to church; I liked that. She is my mentor and it’s an honor to know her. Judy S

“Dr. Davis helped me deal with recent losses and stresses in my life; I have enjoyed being able to talk to someone that can help me understand how I am feeling and how to move forward; I have brought my husband to my sessions with Dr. Davis and my marriage is the best it has been in our 20 years together.” Pam and Jeff

“Dr. Davis allowed me to see my faults, work and correct these faults and also to keep myself focused on the important issues.” Steve

“I was thankful for Dr. Davis’ unfailing patience and encouragement; I am better and the best I can be because she let me hear myself think.” Kim

“I would recommend Dr. Davis because of her practical and common sense approach, true concern and she is very easy to relate and talk to. I was comfortable from day one. Dr. Davis provided invaluable guidance and advice at a very difficult time in my life.” Martin

“Dr Davis isn’t “just” my therapist, she is my co-collaborator for a better life. Having her in my corner has been essential in keeping my chronic depression from taking me over. I have asked for her help with many other parts of my life, too - school, work, friendships, my marriage, my spiritual life. If I am honest with her and listen, then she is able to help me improve these things. She is kind, wise, honest, funny, and firm when I need her to be! I see the benefits or our collaboration every day and I am thankful for her help, her hard work and her expert care.” Stef

“From the first time I met Dr. Davis, she made me feel comfortable. She listened to me without being judgmental and talked to me without being condescending. She made me feel normal. She is such a nice and kind hearted person you can’t help but feel at ease from the moment you walk in. I always leave her office with new insights about the feelings or issues I presented to her.” Julia

“I came to Dr. Davis for personal and marital counseling. She was very professional but yet made me feel like I was talking to a friend, without judgment. I’m happy to say that she helped me to finally figure out my problems.” Nancy

“There are many things I like about working with Dr. Davis but what stands out the most is the way she demonstrates that she cares about her patients, she tailors the sessions to the specific needs of the patient, she is personable and has a warm spirit, when I leave her office I feel good, I am energized, have a sense of purpose.” Allison M

“Dr. Davis is a kind and compassionate therapist who helped me during a difficult period in my life. I would definitely recommend her.” Vickie J

Dr. Davis is, by far, the best therapist I’ve had the pleasure of working with. she was not only a fantastic listener, but also offered insight and information about helping me through some difficult life challenges. I enthusiastically recommend her!” Walt

Dr. Davis is an amazing therapist. I have felt and continue to feel 100% comfortable in telling her everything going on with my life. She has been there for some of the horrible times and its because of her compassion and understanding. There are not enough words to express my sincere gratitude for the work, effort, patience and wisdom she has given me and my son.” Susan

I definitely feel fortunate to have known Dr. Davis during one of the toughest phases of my life. Dr. Davis offered a safe and judgment free zone for me to talk. She guided me through every step of my recovery process. I realize that recovery is a long process but I see light at the end of the tunnel because of Dr. Davis. - MG

Contact Information and Emergency Phone Numbers

Office: (706) 922-3027
Fax: (706) 364-8996
drdavisconsulting54@gmail.com

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-8255
Veterans Crisis Line: (800) 273-8255 (Press 1)
Domestic Violence Hotline (800) 799-7233

Department of Children & Family Services (877) 423-4746
National Institute of Mental Health: (866) 615-6464
National Mental Health Hotline 9-8-8

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