Staff Spotlight: Engle Clay, LMFT

Engle joined the Skyland Trail team in August of 2025. She is a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist, with a profound commitment to nurturing healthier relationships and supporting individuals through life’s challenges. Graduating with distinction from Mercer University School of Medicine, she holds a specialized degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, backed by a rigorous academic foundation and extensive clinical training.

Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to become an adolescent family therapist?

I really believe in looking at the health of the entire system rather than just focusing on one individual. Helping the adolescent is, of course, an important part of the work. But I often found myself supporting teens only to see them return to the same environments that weren’t helping them thrive.

That’s why connecting with parents or caregivers, as well as the adolescent, is so important to me. It feels fulfilling because I’m good at organizing — not just things, but emotions and dynamics. In a way, it’s like tidying up a messy family system. I’m not looking for perfection, but I am looking for healthier functioning.

What drew you to Skyland Trail specifically?

There aren’t many positions out there that focus on family therapy. Since I’m a marriage and family therapist, I wanted a role that allowed me to specialize in what I was trained for. I can absolutely do individual therapy, and that’s part of the work too, but family therapy is where I shine.

I’d also never worked in a residential setting before, so I was drawn to the opportunity to learn something new. To me, being a well-rounded therapist means trying different approaches and settings. I’ve worked in private practice and in agencies focused on trauma, but residential was the missing piece. Skyland Trail has one of the best residential programs for teenagers, and I knew I could make an impact here while growing my skills.

What do you like most about working with adolescent clients?

Adolescents are wonderful to work with because, while their diagnoses and symptoms are very real, they’re still just kids. You can be silly with them, have fun, and enjoy the process while still doing meaningful therapeutic work.

What therapeutic approaches or techniques have you found most effective when working with teenagers?

I use a combination of experiential family therapy and structural family therapy, with some emotion-focused therapy mixed in when needed.

Experiential therapy means I bring my authentic self into the therapy room. For some clients, I may be the first truly safe person they’ve met, and that connection helps them open up. Once they realize therapy can feel real and human, they’re more willing to connect with others in safe and healthy ways.

I’m also very direct. I don’t just ask, “How does that make you feel?” and circle around. Instead, I point out the symptoms, go straight to the root, and dig into what’s happening. My clients know I’m tough, but they also know I’m a safe space. Even though I’ve only been at Skyland Trail since August, the kids know me, trust me, and feel comfortable being open with me. That trust is what allows us to do the work.

How can parents, family, and friends of adolescent clients play an impactful role in recovery?

Parents play one of the most important roles in a teen’s recovery. I like to use the metaphor of bowling: the teenager is the bowler, and their behaviors, feelings, and symptoms are the ball rolling down the lane. Parents are the guardrails.

Teens need the freedom to explore, gain independence, and make mistakes. But parents are there to set boundaries, provide guidance, and make sure they don’t end up in the gutter. That structure allows teens to grow while staying safe.

Self-care is vital for therapists. How do you personally maintain your well-bring and resilience while working with clients?

I try to leave work at work. I don’t check emails on weekends, and when I go home, I do my best to set down the love and care I hold for my clients so I can recharge.

Outside of work, I’m very invested in hobbies and community. I’m starting a pottery class, I travel often, I exercise, and I maintain a strong support system. I also see my own therapist, which is essential. Having a full life outside of therapy helps me stay grounded and resilient.

If you could go back in time, what would you tell your teenage self?

I’d tell myself it’s okay to be who you are. Authenticity will become your greatest strength, and it’s safe to be authentic.

Can you share a favorite quote, piece of advice, or cheerleading mantra that inspires you?

I use this line all the time in therapy, especially when I sense resistance: “But what do I know? I’m just a therapist.”

It usually makes clients laugh, but it also serves as a reminder. They realize, “Oh right, you do know what you’re talking about, you have the training, and you’re here to help me.” It’s become my catchphrase, and all my clients recognize it. It’s a small way of saying: I’m here, I’m real, and I care.