We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. April Walker, LPC, LMHC and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Dr. April, how does your business help the community?
Empowering Pathways Counseling helps the community by addressing a great need to provide essential mental health care services and support to individuals in the Atlanta and metro communities. Additionally, representation is of great importance, and my practice provides culturally competent and quality care for the diverse communities in which it serves. Being visible in the community and making therapy easily accessible allows for an increased willingness and participation; helping to bridge the gap and ensuring everyone receives the support they need.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Empowering Pathways Counseling is a practice that stands on the belief that counseling is a personal and unique journey, and no matter where individuals are in their journey, the aim is to help guide them towards living healthy and abundant lives. I have been in solo private practice for two full years, and while it has not been easy, I am most proud of the tremendous amount of growth made in that timeframe along with my ability to reject the fear that I had and learning to trust the process. Hearing clients express their sincere gratitude for the work that I do and how they see the passion behind it all continues to propel me forward; to keep going. I believe that my authenticity is what has got me to where I am today, and I am forever grateful for the lives I have positively impacted and the growth I see in the clients I serve. What sets me a part is that I believe in meeting my clients where they are and providing a warm and affirming therapy space for them to feel empowered; empowered to make choices to improve their lives and mental wellness. My practice name was birthed from the idea that life is a journey and while I am not here to give a client “advice,” my goal is to help clients explore their thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment, guiding them on a path towards their own insights and solutions. Together, we work towards navigating challenges and discovering new perspectives that empower them to make meaningful changes in their lives. I often share with my clients that they are in the driver seat and in control of their lives. As their therapist, I am simply on the passenger side helping to guide them along the way.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I enjoy the city life and all that the Atlanta area has to offer! I absolutely love the diversity of the city and it is refreshing to see in various places around the city. From attending a Braves game, to concerts or festivals, I aways enjoy getting out in the community. You could catch me at City Winery for a great concert or comedy show, or even spending time with friends at various restaurants around the city. Little Alley Steakhouse and Mojave are a couple of personal favorites of mine. When I want to relax and recharge, the Woodhouse Spa is always a great option. I am also a sucker for a nice speakeasy and cocktails, and the James Room is always a great choice! Rock Steady is a restaurant and lounge that is also a personal favorite of mine and always has a great vibe and crowd. Oh! And a night with karaoke always makes for a fun night! Punch bowl social is always a great spot to have some wholesome fun!
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to express my deepest appreciation and gratitude for my husband and children. Their unwavering love, encouragement, and support has been the backbone of my journey the moment it was a dream realized. I appreciate them for believing in me even when I didn’t believe in myself, pushing me on those days I felt exhausted, and pouring into me with words and even actions that fueled my passions. I am eternally grateful for them and love them tremendously.
Website: https://www.empoeringpathways.net
Instagram: @pathways2empowerment
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralwalker
Facebook: Empowering Pathways Counseling, LLC
Image Credits
Mike Dawkins