Madeline Franke

Hi, I'm Madeline! At the heart of my work is a deep belief in the power of authentic, meaningful human connection. From a person-centered, trauma-informed approach, I strive to meet each client exactly where they are, with empathy, gentle care, and acceptance. As a fellow creative, I love incorporating play, art, and expressive tools into the therapy process. With specialized training in play therapy and expressive arts approaches, enjoy using creative, personalized interventions to empower clients as they express themselves, explore and gain insight into emotions and experiences, and build on their unique strengths. I believe therapy should be a safe, developmentally appropriate space where you can feel truly seen, heard, and supported. I also value collaboration, partnering with families to offer helpful resources and build a strong support system rooted in trust that nurtures growth and healing.

Before joining the team at Early Connections, I worked with children, teens, and young adults in a community mental health setting, offering individual and family counseling to those navigating anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, suicidal ideation, childhood trauma, school challenges, and adjustment. I’ve also supported undergraduate college students through social, emotional, and academic challenges in a university setting. Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of working as a research assistant, focusing on suicide prevention in vulnerable populations.

These valuable experiences have all shaped my heart for this work. I’m especially passionate about supporting others through anxiety, depression, stress, life changes, trauma, grief and loss, and issues related to emotional regulation, identity, and self-worth.

I earned my Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology from the University of Georgia, where I also studied Human Services and Human Development and Family Science. I received my Master of Science (M.S.) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Georgia State University. I am an Associate Professional Counselor (APC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC), working towards full licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and pursuing my Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credential. I’m also an active member of the American Counseling Association and Association for Play Therapy. As an Associate Professional Counselor, I will be working under the supervision of Lauren Brown, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, the owner of Early Connections Child and Family Counseling.

Outside of the counseling space, I’m someone who recharges through creativity and
connection. I enjoy a good art project, playing guitar, reading, exploring new coffee shops, and spending quality time with my loved ones.

I’m so glad that you are here. I’d be honored to connect with you and walk alongside you on your journey!