Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. April Givens.
Hi Dr. Givens, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I was born in Dallas, TX, and grew up in Alexandria, LA. With my mom and grandparents. I graduated from high school with honors and went into the Army National Guard as a logistics supply specialist. I did the split option, where you go on to basic training after high school, come back home and go to college, then the next summer go back into advanced training with the Army and then go back home and complete college. I continued to serve in the Army National Guard for 8 years. I received my Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Biology from the University of LA at Monroe. I decided to go into counseling after taking a histology class in my undergraduate program and couldn’t dissect a live rat. The professor had to come over to my group and cut open the rat for us. My major was Biology Pre-Med, and I was on track to go to medical school and after that class, I reconsidered whether I could actually work on cadavers. After taking two years off after graduating, I decided to go back to school and received my Master of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling. Then, three years later, I decided to pursue my PhD and received my PhD in 2020 in Counseling and Human Services with a concentration in Nonprofit Management and Leadership. Along the way, I had two children while completing my education.
I believe a combination of education and life experiences has made me an effective counselor with proven results. My counseling approach is considered “real”. I talk to my clients straightforward and challenge them to set the pace to make changes in their lives. I provide them with the tools to move forward and stay the course. I use cognitive behavioral techniques and solution-focused therapy along with reality therapy. I believe in positive psychology and using affirmations daily to promote positive thinking.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road. I have learned so much about myself along the way. I have learned to set boundaries in relationships and friendships and have let go of friendships and relationships along the way. This journey has taught me the importance of self-love, and I am truly happy with where I am in life.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Urban Counseling Clique?
Urban Counseling Clique has grown since 2o15, starting with just me, and now, in 2024, we have eight clinicians. We have also expanded to Arizona. Urban Counseling Clique is a group counseling practice specializing in trauma informed therapy, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy. We see children, adults, and couples. We also specialize in workplace stress, partnering with many Employee Assistance Programs to provide sessions to its employees. We are a thriving practice and strive to provide the best therapy by meeting clients where they are and making sure they receive treatment that is holistic. We focus on the mind, body, and spirit to combat mental health. We are in network with all major insurances, medicare, and Medicaid.
Alright, so before we go, can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
People can collaborate with me by being a mental health advocate and following me on Instagram and YouTube for mental health and wellness tips.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.draprilgivens.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Dr.aprilgivens
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/urbancounselingclique
- Twitter: https://Twitter.com/draprilgivens
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrAprilG
