Renee Lackey MA, NCC, LPC-MHSP (t)

ABOUT ME: Hello, and welcome! I’m so glad you stopped by my page. A little about me: I’m a proud mom of two incredible kids—a curious 7-year-old and a delightful 8-month-old—who keep me on my toes and remind me daily that parenting is both a joy and a journey! Originally from Little Rock, Arkansas, I followed my dreams to New York City in my early 20s, where I studied and explored my passion for acting. Eventually, life led me back to Arkansas, where I met my wonderful husband. Together, we embarked on a new adventure, moving to Chicago with our son so I could earn my Master’s degree in Counseling from Northwestern University, specializing in Children and Adolescents. After a few windy years in the Windy City, we decided Tennessee would be the perfect place to settle down and grow as a family. Now, we’re thrilled to call Tennessee our home! SPECIALIZATION: I specialize in working with children, teens, parents, families, and adults—which means I’ve got experience with just about every dynamic out there! I’m trained in EMDR, as well as EMDR combined with Play Therapy for kids, providing a compassionate approach to healing that meets each client right where they are. I frequently work with children and families navigating challenges like divorce, grief and loss, childhood trauma, anxiety, and anger. Helping them find new ways to heal and grow is a privilege I deeply value. Currently, I’m under the supervision of Carla Babb and work with the wonderful team at Cypress Counseling Group. HOW I CAN HELP: Is your child caught in a cycle of “what if” worries, negative self-talk, avoiding people or places, perfectionism, fears, outbursts, friend troubles, clinginess, or seems withdrawn, angry, or overly critical? As a parent, you might feel a little worn out, wondering where your patience went, or just wish for some fresh insight. I’m here to help your child and family find a path toward personal growth, develop healthy coping skills, build stronger connections, and communicate with more ease. Plus, we’ll work on managing conflicts—and yes, even have some fun along the way! I’ll also work with you to co-regulate and navigate challenging behaviors with confidence. Together, we’ll create a judgment-free space grounded in compassion and understanding—because let’s face it, “perfect parenting” is a myth! My goal is to support not only your child but also you and your family as you grow and heal together. MY APPROACH: Parenting is, hands down, one of the best—and let’s be honest, hardest—jobs out there. I believe every parent wants to do their best, and they’re doing just that with the tools they have. My goal is to help build stronger, trust-based relationships between parents and kids, grounded in respect and healthy boundaries. Together, we’ll focus on empowering you with practical, personalized strategies tailored to your family’s unique needs. Depending on what works best, our sessions might include one-on-ones with your child or teen, parent-only sessions, parent-child sessions, or even the full family! My approach blends evidence-based methods, using both directive and non-directive techniques, to meet families right where they are. The goal? To help you all live, learn, love, and thrive together. Every client is unique, and I believe therapy should reflect that. Building trust is at the heart of what I do, and I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space where stories—spoken or unspoken—can unfold. I’m honored to be a witness to each of my clients’ journeys, helping them explore and grow in ways that feel right to them. Have questions? Just reach out—I’d love to connect and am ready whenever you are!