Stonegate Counseling
  • Our Services
    • Anxiety Counseling
    • Depression Therapy
    • EMDR, Brainspotting, and Trauma Therapy
    • Marriage & Couples Counseling
    • Counseling for Teens
    • Counseling for College Students
  • Our Team
    • Thorn Winkler
    • Stephanie Atkinson
    • Taylor Mason
    • Alison Cooley
    • Donna Helton
    • Hannah Bryant
    • Allen Edens
    • Ryan Highfield
  • Fees & FAQs
  • Book an Appointment
  • Our Approach

Ryan Highfield, MA — Counseling for Men and Teenage Boys in Athens & Watkinsville, GA

Picture
Hi, I'm Ryan!
​
​

I hold a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. After completing my graduate internship at Stonegate, I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue working with clients as I grow in the counseling profession. My desire to help people work through difficult seasons and create meaningful change is what drew me to counseling, and I strive to provide a space where clients are heard, supported, and encouraged.

How I Approach Therapy

I believe counseling should be a safe, supportive, and collaborative space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, experiences, and goals without judgment. My approach continues to develop as I grow as a counselor and I draw from several therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Existential Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy. I work to tailor the counseling process to each client’s individual needs, personality, and goals rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. For clients who wish to integrate their faith into the counseling process, I am honored to incorporate Christian perspectives, Scripture, and prayer into our work together.

Who I Work With

I enjoy working with teens, college students, and adults. Some of the things I enjoy helping clients with are:
  • Anxiety and stress
  • Depression
  • Trauma and difficult life experiences
  • Grief and loss
  • Life transitions
  • Self-esteem and identity concerns
  • Relationship and communication concerns
  • Sleep difficulties
  • Personal and spiritual growth

Background & Experience

​Before entering the counseling profession, I spent 16 years working in accounting and served as a Controller for three multi-million-dollar companies in Atlanta. I hold an undergraduate degree in Business Management and Accounting, and my own transition from a long-term career in the corporate world to counseling has given me a particular appreciation for the challenges that can accompany major life decisions, career transitions, stress, and change.

Outside of counseling, I enjoy hiking, kayaking, fishing, playing pool, watching the Georgia Bulldogs and Atlanta Braves, and spending time with friends and family.

I practice under the clinical supervision of Thorn Winkler, whose credentials and contact information can be found here.

Let's Work Together!

Taking the first step toward counseling is a big decision. If you’re looking for a supportive place to work through challenges, better understand yourself, strengthen your relationships, or make meaningful changes in your life, I’d be honored to work with you. When you're ready, just click the button below to get started.
Connect with Ryan
We have a brand new location starting August 17! We are now in the Summit Office Park:
3651 Mars Hill Rd
Suite 2500

Watkinsville, GA 30677

We can't wait to see you there.
  • Our Services
    • Anxiety Counseling
    • Depression Therapy
    • EMDR, Brainspotting, and Trauma Therapy
    • Marriage & Couples Counseling
    • Counseling for Teens
    • Counseling for College Students
  • Our Team
    • Thorn Winkler
    • Stephanie Atkinson
    • Taylor Mason
    • Alison Cooley
    • Donna Helton
    • Hannah Bryant
    • Allen Edens
    • Ryan Highfield
  • Fees & FAQs
  • Book an Appointment
  • Our Approach