April Chapel

I help women evaluate if they are in a destructive relationship. I provide assistance developing a safety plan if there is a current threat from a toxic relationship. Treatment goals for clients leaving a violent relationship include strengthening skills for independence, reducing codependency, and healing from the inner wounds that abuse creates.

Like an iceberg, the majority of distress can be hidden under the surface. We will evaluate for sources of depression like unrealized expectations, anger, guilt, stress, shame, trauma, relationship conflict, and grief.

Together, clients and I explore spiritual identity and consider any infections to having a positive view of self. We consider if another person or a painful experience has defined the client's worth.

CBT is effective in changing negative thinking styles. Our feelings and behaviors result from our thoughts and beliefs. I teach clients to evaluate their thinking on a regular basis and reframe negative thoughts through cognitive restructuring. Mental habits take 63 days to change!

DBT is very helpful for situations that are not likely to change. It seeks to find a healthy balance between acceptance and change.

Trauma settles into the body, so recognizing stress in the body can be a good message. Relaxation and self-care will provide opportunities for the body to release the trauma.

PTSD can result from any negative life event that occurs in a state of relative helplessness. I work with clients to identify the survival responses that developed during trauma and are reinforced by traumatic memory. I use Cognitive Processing Therapy to evaluate and correct any core beliefs about self, others, life, or God that became distorted from the trauma. I teach somatic strategies to relax the body and regain a sense of safety and control.