We had the good fortune of connecting with Tiffany Dennis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tiffany, we’d love to hear about a book that’s had an impact on you.
About two years ago, I read a book called ‘Driven to Distraction’ by Edward M. Hallowell and John J. Ratey. A colleague recommended it to me, and I found that it had a significant impact on my life. Although it may seem a bit dramatic, I continue to use the present tense when talking about the book because it’s still changing my life. ‘Driven to Distraction’ is a book about ADHD written by a psychiatrist who specializes in treating the disorder. I had suspected that I struggled with ADHD for a while, but I had never really tried to understand it. After reading this book, I could relate to every person the author mentioned. I’m incredibly grateful for this book, as it helped me understand myself. My life has transformed into something more manageable and in tune with who I am, naturally.

As a licensed professional counselor, I had not considered specializing in ADHD before. After reading ‘Driven to Distraction,’ I knew I wanted to offer this experience to my neurodivergent clients. This past year, I earned a certification as an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, and I now help clients get their lives on track. I offer a safe space to process the daily struggles of ADHD, as it is a 24/7 disorder. I also help clients learn to appreciate the positive side of ADHD. Without it, I wouldn’t be the creative, intuitive person that I am. This book helped me see ADHD as more than a disorder. It’s what makes me unique. It’s what drives all the things I have always loved about myself.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have been practicing as a therapist for five years and in 2023, I transitioned into more specialized work. My area of expertise is working with individuals and couples who exhibit ADHD symptoms and are creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals. In addition to counseling, I have also started ADHD coaching this past year, and I love it. Something that most don’t know about me is that I am a very creative person and have been a professional photographer for over a decade. I enjoy exploring new ventures outside of counseling work. I have noticed that many ADHD entrepreneurs, like myself, are interested in multiple things, so I have created a space in my practice for them. This shared experience makes it easier for me to connect with my clients.

One of my proudest achievements is having the courage to take the leap and start doing niche work. As with most professions, it can be scary to turn away clients who are not a good fit. But I had to build the confidence to do this, and it has been working out great. One major lesson I have learned along the way is to practice what I preach to my clients. I encourage them to create balance in their lives and set boundaries between work and personal goals, and I have started doing the same for myself. This has made me more successful and less overwhelmed.

At the beginning of 2024, I am planning to launch ADHD courses, which is an exciting project for me. I am looking forward to continuing to build my brand as The Atlanta Therapist, with a focus on neurodivergence, self-care, and balance.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Everyone forgets that Atlanta has a river flowing through the city. The Chattahoochee River offers kayaking, fishing, and paddle boarding but my favorite thing to do is Shoot the Hooch. A three to six-hour float down the river with a cooler is a nice way to relax. The best river park is Morgan Falls Overlook.

The best smoothies in Atlanta are at this place called The Raw Experience. It’s great for a quick breakfast.

Art & Soul Studio is a pottery studio in Sandy Springs for something creative. Make sure you do it at the beginning of a week-long trip because you wait 6 days to pick up your glazed pottery.

The canopy tree walk at Fernbank Museum is a free & unique activity. A great way to catch up and enjoy nature.

Apt 4B is a hip Caribbean restaurant in Buckhead. Great drinks, vibe, and food. It’s a vinyl bar & they have a speakeasy called the Bassment for more drinks and music after dinner.

High-Frequency Friday at the High Museum of Art is a great event for art and music lovers.

For a unique dining experience, I would have dinner at The Polaris. It’s a restaurant inside of the Hyatt Regency downtown that slowly spins. The sweeping views of the city are amazing. The food is also delicious.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a shoutout to my colleague, Dr. Melanie Covert. From starting as one of her grad school students to becoming one of her partners in group practice, she has been so helpful in my journey as a counselor.

Website: https://www.theatlantatherapist.com

Instagram: @theatlantatherapist

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