About the Counseling Center

The purpose of the Counseling Center is to provide high quality and affordable counseling services to the people of Atlanta at a reasonable price. The fee is on a sliding scale, based on family income. Insurance is not involved, thus insuring the total privacy and confidentiality of services provided. All are welcomed at the Center. One does not have to be a resident in Virginia Highland, nor does one have to attend the Church of Our Saviour to obtain services. Counseling services are provided for individuals, couples, and families. Adults, adolescents, and children are all served at the Center. Services of a psychiatrist and medication are NOT part of the services offered by the Counseling Center. For those needing such, referrals will be made. Services are provided Monday through Friday, 9:00 am until 7:00 pm. For an appointment or for information, call (404) 213-6549, Monday through Friday between 9:00 am and 7:00 pm or on Saturday between 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. There is no charge for this call.

Location of the Center

The Counseling Center at the Church of Our Saviour is located in the heart of the Virginia-Highland area, in the administrative offices of the church. The entrance is at 985 Los Angeles Avenue, behind the Church building. Parking is available on the streets. The Church of Our Saviour is a familiar sight in the Virginia-Highland area. A presence since 1925, the red brick complex is located across the street from the Highland Fire Station.

Why do People Seek Counseling?

Many people recognize that "it helps to talk with somebody" when struggling with personal problems. A counselor who knows how to direct your attention to the underlying issues that are the root of the problem, can be a big help. Some of the problems that lead people to seek counseling include: feelings of anxiety, excessive worry, tension and stress, difficulties in sleeping, ongoing feelings of unhappiness, sadness, or depression, difficulty making decisions, conflict in personal relations, marital problems, difficulties at work, school achievement problems, child management issues, and parent-child conflict. Counseling is often helpful in these cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the sessions confidential?

Yes, by Georgia law, all information is private and confidential.

Will I be expected to attend church services to obtain counseling services?

No, the counseling services are available to all, the church is not involved in providing the services, only the space.

Does Dr. Timms prescribe medication?

No, as a psychologist, Dr. Timms does not prescribe medication. Should it appear that medication might be of help, he will discuss with the client a possible referral to a physician.

How do I make an appointment, or request information?

You may call Dr. Timms at (404) 213-6549 Monday through Friday between 9:00 am and 7:00 pm, or on Saturday mornings from 10:30 am-1:30 pm. There is no cost for this call.

The Director

Robert J. Timms, Ph. D., is Director and counselor at the Center. He is a clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience in working with adults, adolescents, and children who are experiencing problems and conflicts in their lives. Past Clinical Director of the Murphy- Harpst Children's Centers in Cedartown, Georgia, Dr. Timms started the Counseling Center at the Church of Our Saviour in 2003. Dr. Timms received his doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Georgia State University, here in Atlanta. He is licensed as a psychologist by the State of Georgia. He has conducted numerous training and professional workshops throughout the United States. He is the co- author of the book Embodying Healing: Recovery from Childhood Sexual Abuse. Another book on treatment of severely disturbed children and families is currently in progress.