HOPE GODLESKI, LCSW

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Bachelor’s degree from Harding University and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Georgia. I have over 20 years experience working with children and families in a variety of settings including community agencies, school system, foster care and adoption systems.  For the past 12 years, I have specialized in supporting families of infants and toddlers with developmental delays, trauma and attachment issues. I believe the parent/caregiver is a child’s first and most important teacher. I love educating parents on infant mental health, helping them to promote their child’s development so that they can form a close and secure attachment. My goal is to help identify strengths and needs to empower the parent to create change in the child.  Children also learn through play, and I believe they also communicate and heal through play.  Since each family is unique, I utilize interventions from a variety of perspectives including Family Systems Theory, Strengths Based Theory, Person-in-Environment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory and Play Therapy.  I am currently working towards becoming a Registered Play Therapist under the clinical supervision of Rebecca Muyres, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS and getting my Certification in Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP).  In addition to working with younger children (birth to 5 years), I also have a passion for helping children and teens heal after the loss of a loved one or other traumatic events, or navigate the challenges of a blended family, I believe I have a unique perspective, as I have experienced these circumstances in my own life. I also work with children and teens with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship or school struggles, ADHD, as well as moms with perinatal mental health issues. My desire is to help you feel comforted in knowing you are not alone, and to help you find hope for the future. My faith has helped me navigate life’s challenges and I can incorporate a biblical perspective and spiritual encouragement in the counseling process for those clients who so desire.

I have been married for 8 years. My husband and I share a blended family of 3 daughters (two 17 year olds and a 19 year old) and a son (13). I love watching our daughters play soccer and our son’s football games. As a family, we enjoy playing games, beach trips and amusement parks.  I enjoy reading and getting together with my book club, antique shopping, painting furniture (I always have a project!), and attending theater performances and concerts in the community.  My faith and involvement with our Church family is a huge part of my life and a source of great encouragement.