Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Tennessee and a Clinical Professional Counselor (CPC) in Nevada, with over 13 years of experience helping adults navigate life’s challenges and build fulfilling lives. My specialty areas include LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, addiction recovery, anxiety and mood disorders, neurodiversity, relationships, personality disorders. I am passionate about creating a supportive, affirming space where clients can feel understood and empowered to make meaningful changes. My clinical background spans a variety of settings, including inpatient mental health, residential substance abuse treatment, outpatient therapy, corrections, and domestic violence shelters. This diverse experience allows me to bring a well-rounded, client-centered approach to my work. Whether you’re working through life transitions, healing from trauma, or exploring identity, my goal is to help you feel seen, supported, and capable of moving forward with confidence.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session, we’ll focus on getting to know each other and setting the stage for our work together. We’ll start by going over an intake questionnaire you’ve filled out, which helps me understand your history, concerns, and what you hope to get out of therapy. Some of the questions might feel repetitive, but they’re all about making sure I have the full picture to support you in the best way possible. The most important part of this session is building a sense of safety and trust. Therapy works best when you feel comfortable and supported, so we’ll spend time getting to know each other and creating a space where you can be yourself. We’ll also talk about your goals for therapy and set realistic expectations for the process. Therapy takes courage—it can be hard at times, and you might not feel better right away. Some sessions may even stir up tough emotions afterward, and that’s okay. It’s all part of the growth process, and we’ll work through it together at your pace.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
With over 13 years of experience, I’ve developed a thoughtful and effective approach to helping you identify the root causes of your challenges and create a plan tailored to your unique needs and goals. My style blends gentle directness with compassion—I’ll meet you where you are while also encouraging you to explore deeper layers and take meaningful steps forward. When necessary, I’ll challenge you in a supportive way to help you break through barriers and gain new perspectives, always with your growth and well-being at the forefront.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I love working with adults who feel stuck in life, unsure of how to move forward or deepen their personal growth. My ideal clients are motivated to explore more of who they are, how they got to this point, and what core issues may be holding them back. They are ready to unpack the layers of their experiences, challenge old patterns, and create a path toward greater clarity, confidence, and fulfillment. Together, we work to build a deeper understanding of their inner world and develop tools for meaningful and lasting change.
About Marli Simpson
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
Focusing on things beyond your control can drain your emotional and mental energy. Through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), we work together to uncover unhelpful thought patterns that may be keeping you stuck in behaviors that once served you but no longer align with your goals.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
When emotions feel overwhelming and difficult to manage, having practical tools can make a meaningful difference. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach that combines mindfulness with skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. In DBT-focused sessions, we work together to develop healthier coping strategies, build emotional resilience, and navigate challenging situations with greater confidence and balance.
Narrative
The stories we tell ourselves about our experiences shape how we see ourselves and the world around us. Narrative Therapy empowers individuals to rewrite their stories, focusing on their strengths and resilience rather than solely on the trauma. By externalizing problems and exploring alternative narratives, this approach helps clients separate their identity from their experiences. Through collaborative storytelling, clients gain greater clarity, control, and meaning in their lives, enabling them to move forward with confidence and self-compassion.
Gender-affirming therapy
As a therapist, I provide gender-affirming therapy by creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive space where clients of all gender identities can explore their authentic selves. My approach centers on understanding and affirming each client’s unique journey, addressing the challenges they face, and empowering them to thrive. I also have experience writing gender-affirming advocacy letters, ensuring clients have access to the resources and support they need for gender-affirming care.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
When navigating emotional challenges, it can be helpful to understand how your thoughts influence your feelings and behaviors. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a proven, evidence-based approach that emphasizes the connection between these three areas. Together, we identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns, replacing them with more balanced and constructive perspectives. This approach is especially effective in addressing anxiety, depression, and a range of mood disorders, fostering greater emotional well-being.