Hi, I'm Barbara.


My therapeutic approach is gentle and person-centered, believing that when given a non-judgmental, safe, and healing environment, individuals have the capability of finding resources among themselves to heal.

My approach is also psychodynamic which is identifying forces that underlie human behavior, feelings, and emotions and how they might relate to early experience.

As an objective partner, I can help identify problematic issues and assist with development of coping skills and healing. I’ve named my practice Tranquility Counseling because I hope to help my clients learn about mindfulness so that they may enter a space of peacefulness, calm, and safety – even amidst chaotic times.

I have experience in treating addiction, having worked in Intensive Outpatient facilities and residential drug and alcohol treatment programs. I have training and experience working with victims of trauma including sexual assault and abuse.

My approach can help individuals process trauma-related memories and feelings and begin to learn how to regulate strong emotions. I hold memberships in the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professionals (CCTP).‍

Discover a happier you today

Take the first step towards a brighter future by booking an initial consultation me.

Schedule a free consultation

Customer Testimonials

Read what my clients have to say my therapy.

Working with Therapy and Counseling has been life-changing. Their compassionate approach and expertise have helped me overcome my challenges and find true happiness.

John Doe

CEO, ABC Company

I am forever grateful to Therapy and Counseling for their support. They have truly transformed my life.

Jane Smith

Marketing Manager, XYZ Company

contact

Get in touch

Feel free to send me a message and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Barbara Schmitt LPC-MHSP
About Barbara Schmitt, LPC-MHSP

What led me to this work

Before becoming a therapist, I worked in corporate advertising, helping organizations connect and communicate with people about what they might want or need. Over time, I found myself becoming less interested in the products being marketed and more interested in the people themselves. I became curious about the deeper needs that drive us and shape our behavior. Why could intelligent, capable people chronically feel like a burden? Why did so many kind and caring people struggle to believe they were enough? Why did old hurts continue to shape relationships and lives years later?

As I worked through my own struggles with irrational beliefs, self-worth, and personal growth, I realized my purpose was changing. I no longer wanted to use communication to sell a product. I wanted to use connection, curiosity, and understanding to help people heal.

That’s what led me to this work. Because beneath nearly every struggle is a story waiting to be understood. And perhaps the most important question I ever encountered wasn’t how to create a successful campaign, but how to answer this question:

How do I love myself enough to heal?

What It’s Like to Work With Me

I know that first-session feeling

Here is something most therapists won’t tell you: before a session, I sometimes feel a flutter of nerves. That familiar inner critic asks whether I’ll be smart enough, or have the right answers. Many of my clients know that same voice well, especially right before they reach out.

Then the session starts. I see you, hear your voice and your story, and everything else falls away. I become deeply curious about what you’re sharing and the different ways we might work together toward healing.

I’m a person-centered therapist, which means our sessions focus on what you want to focus on, at the speed you want to go. I draw from several approaches, but I lean on psychodynamic work, because I believe what bothers or blocks us now usually has roots in the past. I listen to your stories, ask questions, and help you look at things from new perspectives. We’re on a journey together until your goals are met.

Not a Revolving Door

People come back, and they bring the people they love

Tranquility Counseling has served adults across Tennessee for over a decade, and most of that growth has come from clients referring their spouses, their grown children, their friends, and their coworkers. Some clients return years later when life brings something new.

I don’t take that lightly. When someone trusts you with the people they love most, it means the relationship holds. That’s the kind of relationship I want to build with you.

Barbara with her service dog Lily
You May Also Meet Lily

My service dog and unofficial co-therapist

Lily is my Yorkie, and she has apparently sealed the deal for more than a few clients. You would be amazed how many people tell me they chose me because of her.

Lily has been working alongside me since she was eight weeks old. During our telehealth sessions, she may pop onto the screen to say hello or curl up nearby while we talk. If you’d like to meet her, just ask.

She definitely earns her treats.

Training & Experience

Grounded in depth and experience

Licensure

Licensed Professional Counselor with Mental Health Service Provider designation (LPC-MHSP), State of Tennessee.

Education

Master of Science in Professional Counseling, Grand Canyon University.

Trauma Specialization

EMDR trained and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), with ongoing advanced training in trauma and family systems.

Addiction Experience

Four years in residential and outpatient addiction treatment, recognized with several awards for outstanding service.

You don’t have to have the right words yet.

My free 15-minute consultation is a no-pressure way to see if we’re a good fit. Secure telehealth for adults anywhere in Tennessee.

Book Your Free 15-Minute Call
Or reach me at barbara@tranquilitycounseling.net  ·  615-656-7209