Michelle Chapman (she/her/hers)
B.A. in Psychology and Studio Art, Certified Life-Coach
Advanced Placement Intern, Boston University Clinical MSW Program
About me:
There is nothing I love more than helping someone realize their worth and take steps toward living authentically and wholeheartedly! Life is an intricate dance of pain and joy, and all too often it can feel as if pain is leading the dance…stress, grief, sorrow, anxiety, fear, broken relationships, etc. To get by day-to-day, we learn to adapt and protect these vulnerable parts of ourselves. Sometimes these protectors also block our joy or disconnect us from ourselves and others. I would be honored to go on a restorative journey with you and work together to lessen your pain, gain a fresh perspective, and help you move into a more authentic and fulfilling future! After all, YOU are worth the journey!
My background:
Throughout my life, I have found myself in roles that provide care, advocacy, and resources that aim to empower individuals, families, and communities. I have experience in the non-profit sector providing clean water initiatives in Uganda, life coaching, working with children through dramatic arts, and providing case management for individuals experiencing homelessness. I am also a wife and mom to two teenagers, so I understand the challenges of balancing family, work, and self-care. My life experience has taught me that people thrive in environments that offer dignity and compassion; healthy relationships are vital to our well-being; love is a better motivator than fear; and empowerment is the best way forward. The field of social work embodies these values, so I decided to pursue my MSW through Boston University in 2020. I am excited to be completing my advanced placement as an intern at Chesapeake Counseling Center.
My approach:
I utilize a holistic approach to engage the body, mind, and spirit in the therapeutic process to facilitate healing and change. I will focus on your strengths and incorporate your values, beliefs, culture, and comfort level into our work. I will always do my best to provide a non-judgmental and safe space for you. I have an interest in mindfulness and compassion-based therapy, DBT, Family systems, and trauma recovery/brain-based therapies.
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work:
I am a non-licensed provider (intern) completing my advanced field placement requirement for an MSW degree through Boston University School of Social Work. I work under the license of my supervisor, Jodi Baker-Hutchinson LCSW (Founder and psychotherapist at Chesapeake Counseling Center). Jodi provides oversight and case consultations for all clients working with Michelle to ensure they are receiving the highest quality of care and outcomes. If you wish to speak with Jodi directly, you may contact her at (757) 302-8362.