Your pain and heartache can be transformed to beauty and purpose

A man, Palmer McCluskey, with short brown hair and a beard, wearing a blue and black checkered shirt, sitting on a beige couch in a room with white walls and a landscape painting of trees hanging behind him. He is smiling and looking at the camera.

My Story

During my junior year at the University of Georgia, I found myself at a crossroads. Substance use had become a huge part of my identity and way of coping with life. As a result, my relationships, grades, and self-esteem were suffering tremendously.

The true heartache of this season was the loneliness and hopelessness that I felt. I knew that there was so much more in life for me, but I also knew that I couldn’t get there by myself.

Entering a treatment program, diving into therapy, and building a healthy community of friends influenced my desire to enter the mental health profession. I learned how to ask for help and experienced the healing that comes with being deeply known, and I quickly found purpose in walking alongside others.

My story has taken so many twists and turns since those pivotal college years. I have come to realize that healing is a lifelong project with many layers and chapters. Similarly, my work as a therapist continues to evolve as I encounter new facets of the human experience.

What remains constant is my desire to help others to find more integration, fullness and vibrancy in their lives. No matter what your story looks like, there is always hope that you can take a step closer towards the true essence of who you are deep down.

I would love to walk alongside you for a season in your journey, whether that is in my office on Ponce in Atlanta, or virtually from your couch at home.

Education and Training

University of Georgia, 2016

Bachelor of Arts

Trinity International University, 2020
MA in Mental Health Counseling and Theological Studies

Clinical Intern, Catholic Charities — Waukegan, IL, 2019–2020
Lead Therapist, Aspire Treatment Solutions — Peachtree Corners, GA, 2020–2021
Psychotherapist, Midtown Psychotherapy Associates — Atlanta, GA, 2020–2026

Reshape your story today