My name is Rachel Chapman, and I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists. I obtained my Bachelor of Child and Youth Care degree in 2010 from Grant MacEwan University, followed by my Master’s in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University in 2021. Following graduation, I have worked closely with high-risk youth who were facing adversity through circumstances such as homelessness, addictions, attachment issues, teen pregnancy, trauma, abuse, mental health issues, 2SLGBTQI+ issues, and legal issues.

I have worked for Black Gold School Division as a Family School Liaison for the last twelve years of my career. In this time, I have worked with numerous students individually, facilitated group sessions, provided universal supports within the classroom, as well as supported the staff and families within the entire school setting. Building capacity for positive mental health within communities, families, and the school setting has been an incredible experience. It is my belief that connection and healthy relationships (attachment) are the key to wellness and prevention.

My personal journey of healing and recovery, professional background, and education have provided the foundation of the therapeutic approaches I deliver. I work from a person-centred and strength-based approach where I walk alongside the client to establish a relationship of nonjudgement, safety, and trust. My belief is that every individual journey is unique. Together we draw from personal strengths and resiliency, and away from life’s challenges and

hardship. It is my hope that every client feels seen, heard, empowered, and validated within our time spent together.

Identifying individual needs and strengths, I draw from several additional approaches. These include emotional-focussed therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and attachment theory. My personal goal is continuing to certify in Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) with my dog “Harbour”. I have a huge heart for animals and strongly believe in the therapeutic value they create for all individuals.