Meet Dr. April Givens | Licensed Psychotherapist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. April Givens and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. April, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Work life balance is something alot of people struggle with on a daily basis. With these uncertain times, there is a lot of stress to maintain stability financially and mentally. Initially I was the person who was always working and would jump on every opportunity that came my way. If it was for the opportunity of exposure or for financial gain. My day was often filled with tasks to do and that would lead to burnout, frustrations, and overwhelm. As an entreprenuer I knew I had control over what I did and what I didn’t do so I started implementing that control. I started saying no to various things and created a set schedule of when I worked and when I incorporated self care and fun interchangeably. I enjoy getting massages, exercising, meditation, facials, and most of all traveling. I also enjoy spending time with my family, children, and closest friends. I believe it is so important to maintain this balance. When you feel your body becoming anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed it is time to say no to things that are causing this and regroup. As a psychotherapist I tell my clients how to do this by creating what I like to call a maintenance schedule. Implementing a daily schedule by writing down goals for the day. As you complete each goal check it off your list, this eliminates stress and anxiety. By having a plan of action you take control of your life and feel awesome by doing so.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I can definitely say I love what I do and it keeps getting better and better. I just received a contract with a major company to provide therapy to their employees. I have a number of supervisees that I am currently supervising for their clinical licensure and who recently joined Urban Counseling Clique to provide therapy along with me. What makes us stand out is that we are authentic. I believe people appreciate you when you are authentic. We thrive by being open and honest with our clientele and truly helping them navigate life. Years ago when I first pursued mental health as a career my goal was to have my own nonprofit group mental health practice. I developed a strategic plan that included working in as many organizations that were nonprofit mental health organizations so I could learn the intricates of how to run a successful practice. I also learned what worked and didn’t work by working at some of these places. I took the knowledge that I acquired and used that to start Urban Counseling Clique in 2015 and we have grown tremendously since. I am most proud of the continued growth and support that we have received by so many.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My favorite spots to visit in the Dallas (DFW) area includes Firewheel shopping center, Glorias latin cuisine, Medina Oven and Bar Moroccan restaurant, and events at Klyde Warren Park, Addison area, and a comedy show.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people that have encouraged me along the way and have contributed to my success by continuous motivation and just being a strong support. These people are my mom Debra, My Dad Ron, My grandmother Frances, My aunt Sue, who is my biggest cheerleader, My uncle Darryl, a series of cousins too many to name, My closest friends, Lori, Erica, Crystal, Kawana, Brigitta, Natachi, Mandy, and Fallon. I also have others that I may come in contact with on a daily basis that serve as a light as well.

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