About Russell
Russell Patterson is a Master’s Level Clinician and Primary Therapist at Emerge Healing Center, joining the team in January 2026. He brings a strong academic and community-focused background to his clinical work. Russell earned his undergraduate degree in Social Work and Business from Benedict College and completed his graduate studies at Clark Atlanta University, where he specialized in School and Community Counseling with an emphasis in Clinical Mental Health.
Before joining Emerge, Russell dedicated time to serving the Atlanta community through volunteer work with AID Atlanta, Ray of Hope Church, The Gathering Place, and local foster homes, where he supported children with IEPs. His experience across community, faith-based, and family-centered settings has shaped a counseling approach rooted in compassion, structure, and respect.
Russell believes that everyone is recovering from something. His work in recovery is grounded in the understanding that healing often requires a safe space without judgment. Personal life experiences deepened his awareness that growth and restoration are ongoing processes. For Russell, counseling is more than a profession; it is an assignment rooted in faith, purpose, and the belief that change is possible.
Outside of his work at Emerge, Russell finds renewal in nature. He enjoys hiking, impromptu road trips to the Blue Ridge, visiting plant nurseries, and tending to his garden. He also spends time caring for his chickens and sharing their abundance of eggs with neighbors. His favorite colors are black and white, his current music phase includes orchestral recreations inspired by Bridgerton, and he enjoys action films starring Daniel Craig or Denzel Washington, as well as comedies featuring Melissa McCarthy or Leslie Jones.
Russell brings warmth, perspective, and a grounded presence to his role as a Primary Therapist, walking alongside clients as they move toward healing and stability.
