Ellis Counseling

Ellis Counseling Ellis Counseling offers professional counseling services for children, adolescents, adults, and couples.

We provide trauma-informed care, Christian counseling, addiction counseling, social skills groups, and support for life’s challenges. Services Provided:

Individual Therapy- If you are experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, anger, loneliness, grief, or if you are dealing with physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, the counselors at Ellis Counseling are here to help. We accept

many different insurance policies and are currently accepting new clients. Couples therapy- The core of our relational counseling is helping couples develop a deeper connection. Conflict in relationships is simply growth trying to happen. Divorce, separation, and custody are also three stressful situations. At Ellis Counseling we have experience working with adults and children who have or are experiencing the stressors related to divorce and separation. It would be our pleasure to help during these stressful times. Children and Adolescent therapy- We work with children and adolescents, including those from foster care and adoptive backgrounds, as well as children and adolescents with problematic behaviors and self-esteem issues. Often teens are suffering from dealing with grief or sexual abuse. We have experience in these areas and often use play therapy, applied behavior analysis and cognitive behavioral therapy and brain spotting as approaches to resolving the issues. Perinatal Mental Health Counseling- 1 in 7 parents will experience severe mood changes and disruptions after birth. Perinatal mental health counseling is focused on alleviating and coping with the stressors associated with childbearing. Including the issues associated with miscarriage, infertility, birth trauma and childbirth. The utilization of evidence based on counseling techniques are proven to positively impact the lives of those involved. Brainspotting- Brainspotting is a powerful, focused treatment method that works by identifying, processing, and releasing core neurophysiological sources of emotional/body pain, trauma, dissociation, and a variety of other challenging symptoms. BSP makes use of the natural phenomenon of where you look affects how you feel through its use of relevant eye positions. Together the therapist and client pair a fixed eye position and body sensation to an unresolved issue. This rapid, highly affective mind/body centered therapy technique appears to go beyond the cognitive awareness and connects one tohis/her body's innate wisdom to heal itself. Substance Abuse Counseling- We have an addiction specialist credentialed to provide the ASAM assessment and addiction counseling. Often treatment centers require an ASAM for admission and we are able to offer the assessment and appropriate referral. Trauma Focused Counseling- Trauma affects many people and they struggle alone to have a healthy life and relationships. Years of scientific research have manifested counseling techniques that show promising results to alleviate the effects of trauma. We have many theoretical approaches we use to help clients function better and integrate their trauma positively into their life. Christian Counseling- We have counselors on staff that are able to address issues of Christian faith such as: cognitive dissonance, self loathing and losing faith. Using principles of Christian faith with biblical fidelity and a Christian worldview can aid clients in resolving their issues through faith.

We’re excited to share that the owner of Ellis Counseling, James Thomas, will be featured in a WSFA Community Spotlight ...
05/22/2026

We’re excited to share that the owner of Ellis Counseling, James Thomas, will be featured in a WSFA Community Spotlight interview! 🎥

During the segment, he discusses the importance of mental health, counseling, and supporting individuals and families in our community.

Be sure to tune in on June 26 at 6:00 AM to catch the interview airing on WSFA!

We’re grateful for opportunities like this to continue helping reduce stigma around mental health and increase awareness of the support available to those who need it. 💙

05/21/2026

Welcome to the first edition of Mental Health Minutes with James Thomas, LPC! 🎥⏱️

In this week’s reel, he talks about something he sees often in clients: negative thought patterns and core beliefs that can fuel anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relationship struggles.

One approach he frequently uses is cognitive restructuring — learning how to identify unhelpful thought patterns and begin replacing them with healthier, more balanced ways of thinking. Research on neuroplasticity shows that our brains are capable of change, meaning the thoughts we practice can shape the way we feel, respond, and experience life.

Becoming aware of our internal dialogue is often the first step toward meaningful growth and healing.

Watch this week’s Mental Health Minute to learn more! ⬇️

Looking for a counselor and wondering what insurance we accept? Here’s a current list of the insurance plans accepted at...
05/14/2026

Looking for a counselor and wondering what insurance we accept? Here’s a current list of the insurance plans accepted at Ellis Counseling and which providers are in-network with each:

✅ Blue Cross Blue Shield
• In-network providers: James Thomas, Paul Moffett, Tikishia Ferrell, Martha Ellis, Shannon Coleman-Humphries, and Monica Cone

✅ Tricare
• In-network providers: Paul Moffett, Janyth Baker, Tikishia Ferrell, Monica Cone

✅ Viva
• In-network providers: James Thomas, Paul Moffett, Tikishia Ferrell, Shannon Coleman-Humphries, and Monica Cone

✅ Medicare
• In-network providers: Paul Moffett

We accept select Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). Because EAP coverage can vary by employer and provider, please contact our office for more information and assistance verifying your benefits.

We also offer self-pay options for clients without insurance coverage or for those who prefer private pay.

If you’re unsure about your benefits or have questions about coverage, our office would be happy to help verify your insurance and connect you with the right counselor for your needs.

📞 Call us at (334)358-2455
💻 Visit us at elliscounseling.net
📍 Located at 1820 Glynwood Dr, Suite B, Prattville, AL

05/12/2026
05/09/2026

Estrogen is the key factor in trauma-related memory disorders.

New research just revealed how it works.

While long associated with memory and female reproductive health, estrogen produced locally within the brain plays a surprisingly pivotal role in how both sexes process trauma. A recent study demonstrates that levels of this hormone in the hippocampus—the brain's primary memory center—can determine the severity of post-traumatic stress responses. Researchers found that while estrogen usually aids brain flexibility, subjects with higher levels of the hormone in the brain experienced significant, long-lasting memory disruptions following intense stress. Conversely, those with lower hippocampal estrogen levels appeared largely protected from these long-term psychological impairments, showing little to no lasting disruption.

The mechanism behind this vulnerability lies in how estrogen interacts with the genome. By "opening up" specific parts of the DNA, the hormone increases the brain's sensitivity, which usually helps form new memories quickly. However, under extreme stress, this same biological process may inadvertently lock in harmful memories more permanently, making the brain more susceptible to the long-term effects of trauma. This discovery offers a critical biological lens through which to view conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), potentially explaining why certain individuals are more vulnerable to the condition and paving the way for future treatments that could prevent traumatic events from becoming lifelong disorders.

source: Pennsylvania State University. How estrogen in the brain impacts stress and trauma response. Penn State News.

05/09/2026

Psychologist says happiness is often linked to simple, stable, and peaceful daily environments. According to psychology, emotional well-being is strongly influenced by routines, surroundings, and the quality of social connections.

Environmental calm supports mental clarity. Psychologist says quiet mornings and organized spaces help reduce cognitive overload and stress. According to psychology, a calm environment allows the brain to function more efficiently and improves emotional balance.

Healthy routines are important. Psychologist says early sleep patterns support brain recovery, emotional regulation, and better decision-making. According to psychology, consistent rest contributes to long-term psychological stability.

Safety plays a key role in happiness. Psychologist says feeling secure in one’s home environment creates a foundation for emotional stability and reduced anxiety. According to psychology, safety allows individuals to focus on growth rather than survival.

Social energy also matters. Psychologist says being around people who do not drain emotional energy helps maintain mental well-being. According to psychology, supportive relationships contribute to resilience, peace, and long-term happiness.

Psychologist says happiness is often less about intensity and more about balance. According to psychology, peaceful habits and healthy environments create sustainable emotional well-being.

⭐️ PROVIDER SPOTLIGHT ⭐️TIKISHIA FERRELLTikishia Ferrell is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience ...
05/07/2026

⭐️ PROVIDER SPOTLIGHT ⭐️

TIKISHIA FERRELL

Tikishia Ferrell is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in various capacities. Her counseling specialties include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, self-esteem challenges, and trauma-informed care. Tikishia is committed to treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. She customizes her approach to dialogue and treatment to align with your unique needs. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and Tikishia is here to support you in this journey.

In her spare time Tikishia enjoys reading, traveling, spending quality time with her family, and meeting new people.

⭐️ PROVIDER SPOTLIGHT ⭐️SHANNON COLEMAN-HUMPHRIESB. S. in Sociology Troy University (Dothan)M.S. in Counseling and Psych...
04/30/2026

⭐️ PROVIDER SPOTLIGHT ⭐️

SHANNON COLEMAN-HUMPHRIES

B. S. in Sociology
Troy University (Dothan)

M.S. in Counseling and Psychology
Troy University (Montgomery)

Shannon Coleman-Humphries is an Licensed Counselor and also holds an Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor certification from the Alabama Drug and Alcohol Association. She has over 25 years of experience in social services working with individuals and families.

Shannon’s area of experience includes counseling adults with substance abuse disorders, behavioral addictions, anxiety, depression, blended family issues, and life adjustment issues. She can conduct ASAM assessments and run substance support groups.

Shannon is a seasoned counselor with 20+ years in social work and 13 years in substance abuse and mental health treatment, offering a direct and relatable style. She collaborates with clients to identify barriers, build healthier patterns, strengthen resilience, and move toward meaningful, lasting change.

Address

1820 Glynwood Drive Suite B
Prattville, AL
36066

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+13343582455

Website

http://www.elliscounseling.net/

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