Question 1

Do you provide in-person or virtual sessions?

Accepted Answer

Either! I'm located in Watkinsville, just past the Oconee Connector.   As long as you're in the state of Georgia or South Carolina, virtual sessions are completely fine with me. Virtual requires you to have a decent internet connection, a private and secure space to talk, and you cannot be driving - in your car is fine, but you must be pulled over safely.

Question 2

So... how does this work?

Accepted Answer

We'll start with either a consult (highly recommended but not required) or a first session. The consult is a place for us to both make sure the vibe is good and I can help with what you need. The first session, or intake, is where you get to tell me your story and what's bringing you to therapy. After that, therapy is a space to vent, curse, laugh, cry - whatever you need it to be!

Question 3

What do you help people with?

Accepted Answer

People come to therapy for all kinds of reasons. Some are navigating relationship difficulties, questions around sexuality or gender identity, religious trauma, experiences of domestic or sexual violence, childhood abuse, addiction, OCD, perfectionism, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or challenges with boundaries and self-worth. Others simply feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves and aren't sure where to start. You don't need to fit neatly into a diagnosis or have the "right" reason to seek therapy. If I don't believe I'm the best person to support your needs, I'll be honest about that and help connect you with someone who may be a better fit.

Question 4

Do I need a diagnosis to start therapy?

Accepted Answer

Of my many soapboxes, one of them centers on how problematic and yet sometimes helpful diagnoses can be. If you're using insurance, your insurance company will require I enter a diagnosis. I'm happy to discuss with you why I landed on what I did, but my main goal is to make sure that this information feels helpful and validating, not labeling or shameful.

Question 5

Do you work with college students?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We work with college students navigating anxiety, trauma, identity, relationships, life transitions, and the general chaos that can come with figuring out adulthood. Our office is just outside Athens in Watkinsville, and virtual sessions are available throughout Georgia.

Question 6

What is your approach to therapy?

Accepted Answer

I don't believe there's a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. I draw from a variety of approaches, including CBT, ACT, and feminist therapy, and tailor therapy to the person sitting in front of me. My goal is to create a space where you can show up as yourself, explore what's weighing on you without judgment, reduce shame where it shows up, and build a life that feels more authentic and meaningful to you.

Question 7

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

I ask for 24 hours notice before a session so that I can offer the available time to another client. If it's within that 24 hour window, I do charge a $75* late cancellation/no show fee.   *Will go up to $100 starting September 1, 2026

Meet Shannon Bruckner, LCSW

Frequently asked questions