A Heartfelt Thank You and a Sweet Holiday Treat
As the year comes to a close, we at Cumberland Counseling Centers want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for you. Whether you’ve trusted us with your care, supported our mission with your generosity, or simply cheered us on from the sidelines, we are deeply thankful for you.
This year has been a remarkable journey of healing, hope, and growth—thanks to your belief in what we do. Your trust and contributions allow us to continue providing affordable, professional counseling and support to everyone who deserves high quality mental health care. From all of us at Cumberland Counseling Centers, we wish you a joyful holiday season filled with peace and goodness.
Additionally - want to celebrate the incredible strength, resilience, and growth of our clients. Each of you has faced challenges with courage, taken steps toward healing, and embraced the hard work of personal transformation. Your dedication to your mental health is truly inspiring, and it is an honor to walk alongside you on this journey.
Every breakthrough, every moment of self-compassion, and every step forward is a testament to your commitment to growth and wholeness. We applaud your success and are so proud of the progress you’ve made.
As we look ahead to a new year, know that we are here to continue supporting you, cheering you on, and believing in your ability to create a life filled with hope and fulfillment. Congratulations on all you’ve accomplished—you are the heart of our mission.
In the spirit of gratitude and celebration, we’re sharing a little holiday cheer from one of our team leaders, Robert Vore. Did you know Robert loves making Christmas cookies? He’s not just a fantastic counselor but also a baking enthusiast! Below is his recipe for the perfect Christmas cookie—sure to bring a smile to your family’s table this holiday season.
Robert Vore’s Perfect Christmas Cookie Recipe
Ingredients:
2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp almond extract (optional, but it adds a festive flair!)
Assorted sprinkles or icing for decorating
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until creamy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing well.
Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass.
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorate with sprinkles, icing, or enjoy as is!
As you bake these cookies, we hope you’ll think of the warmth and care that unite all of us in this community. Thank you for being part of our story this year.
Wishing you and your loved ones a season filled with joy, hope, and sweet memories,
The Cumberland Counseling Centers Team
Suicide Prevention Month: Hope, Healing, and Help
September is Suicide Prevention Month, an important time to raise awareness about mental health struggles and the impact of suicide. It’s also a time to remind those facing difficulty that help is available and healing is possible. At Cumberland Counseling Centers, we are dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s toughest moments, offering compassionate care and professional therapy to those in need.
Why Suicide Prevention Matters
Suicide remains a leading cause of death in the U.S., and its effects are felt deeply by families, friends, and entire communities. While the subject can be difficult to talk about, open conversations are key to breaking down the stigma around mental health and suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that asking for help is a brave and vital step toward healing.
Services We Offer at Cumberland Counseling Centers
At Cumberland Counseling Centers, we provide therapy for individuals, couples, and families who are navigating mental health challenges. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, grief, or a sense of hopelessness, our therapists are here to walk alongside you with faith-centered support and proven therapeutic approaches. Some of our services include:
Individual Counseling: A safe, confidential space to explore personal struggles and work through emotions with the guidance of a licensed therapist.
Family & Couples Counseling: Helping families and couples strengthen their relationships and communicate more effectively in times of stress or hardship.
Support for Crisis Situations: For those facing immediate crisis, we offer guidance and support to stabilize emotions and develop a plan for healing.
To schedule an appointment with one of our therapists, please visit our website or call us at (404) 884-8247. We are here to help.
Coping Skills for Mental Health Struggles
If you or someone close to you is experiencing thoughts of suicide or severe emotional pain, it’s crucial to know that there are ways to manage these feelings. While professional therapy is a key part of healing, there are also some practical coping skills that can provide relief during tough moments:
Reach Out: Talk to someone you trust—a friend, family member, or therapist. Expressing what you're going through can help you feel supported and less alone.
Grounding Techniques: Focus on your senses to help bring you back to the present. Try holding something cold, listening to calming music, or engaging in deep breathing exercises.
Create a Safety Plan: Work with a therapist to develop a personalized plan that outlines warning signs, coping strategies, and emergency contacts when feelings become overwhelming.
Engage in Physical Activity: Exercise, even in small doses, can improve mood by releasing endorphins. Go for a walk, stretch, or move in ways that feel good to you.
Limit Triggers: Reduce exposure to things that increase anxiety or sadness, such as negative social media or stressful news.
Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL)
In moments of crisis, immediate help is available. The Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) offers 24/7 assistance for anyone in need of emotional support. They can connect you to resources, provide crisis intervention, and help you take the next steps toward healing.
Call 1-800-715-4225 at any time if you or someone you know is in crisis.
You Are Not Alone
This Suicide Prevention Month, let's come together as a community to offer hope and healing to those who may be struggling. At Cumberland Counseling Centers, we are here for you, ready to help you take the next step toward a brighter tomorrow. If you or someone you love needs support, don’t hesitate to reach out.