Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Consuela Chapman. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Consuela, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about how you went about setting up your own practice and if you have any advice for professionals who might be considering starting their own?
One of the first steps I took in starting my practice was developing a mission statement. I asked myself what is it exactly I want to do, and from there it helped me develop the brand name Choices In Wellness. I had my foundation and began to build from there. Choices In Wellness would mean our staff would be diverse and that we would offer a multi-model approach or holistic care. Our logo would beam balance and boundaries; I chose the tree pose with branches representing the tree of life. The octagon represents the 8 dimensions of wellness. This is what allows the tree to stay rooted and continue to thrive we are the tree! One of the many things I ask in session is ” Where are you growing?”
It’s been important for me to change the narrative regarding therapy as just an intervention to a preventive tool. I made sure to add EAP counseling as something I would offer. EAP counseling was actually my first introduction to mental health when I worked in a different industry back in 2006. I met with the counselor maybe twice but it was exactly what I needed at the time; to be heard and validated. It’s funny how things come full circle, isn’t it? In addition to EAP counseling, and Psychotherapy; CBD products, Coaching, Reiki, Meditation, and Massage Therapy. My plan is to offer yoga, sound healing, and a journal line in the near future.
For anyone entering into private practice, it’s important to understand you are running a business. I would highly recommend partaking in business counseling and paying for a consultation from someone who is where you are trying to go with your business. I think it’s important to be active in your community and to give back. We offer a sliding scale and have partnered with organizations like NAMI Wake to offer free and low-cost community inclusion events.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your background and context?
My name is Consuela Chapman I am originally from Fayetteville NC and I’m a Maverick! I love saying that by the way. Aside from that, I am an award-winning therapist and wellness curator. I’m dually licensed and multi-certified. My practice Choices In Wellness PLLC was named the best place for mental health in the Triangle. How did I get here; I attend the HBCU Fayetteville State University where I received my MSW in 2010. Over the course of my career, I’ve worked from home health hospice to PRTF. But it was actually during one of my internships that my supervisor said to me I’m not going to be able to work for anybody. Funny how things come full circle.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
The most important thing that I believe has helped me is being my authentic self. The second is practicing boundaries and balance.
If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?
Most definitely. I am grateful for all the opportunities provided that have molded me into the person I am now. I’m honored each time I work with a new client and or returning client. I truly have an amazing career because helping people heal and evolve into the best version of themselves improves my community. I believe in nurturing our neighbors because together we thrive!
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.
choicesinwellness.com - Instagram: @clinically_
speaking @choicesinwellness - Email: [email protected]