About Dr. Courtney M. Chappell
Dr. Courtney Chappell is a licensed clinical psychologist with doctoral-level training in the treatment of mood disorders, substance use concerns, and psychological distress related to chronic medical illness. Dr. Chappell’s clinical work has taken place across community mental health and medical settings, where she has provided psychological assessment and therapy to children, adults, couples, and groups. Dr. Chappell values care that is compassionate, practical, and grounded in strong clinical science.
Education & Training: Dr. Chappell earned a dual Bachelor of Science in Biology and Psychology from Southern University and A&M Colleges, followed by a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Palo Alto University in Silicon Valley, California. Dr. Chappell completed her APA-accredited doctoral internship through Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) at Rochester Regional Health, an outpatient mental health and addiction medicine clinic serving diverse clinical populations. During internship, Dr. Chappell worked as part of a multidisciplinary treatment team providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), with a focus on severe and persistent mental illness.
In addition to direct clinical care, Dr. Chappell contributed to the development of a program integrating behavioral health technologies to improve access to mental health services for individuals experiencing homelessness in the Rochester area. This work reflects her ongoing commitment to equity, access, and thoughtful program development.
Approach to Therapy: Dr. Chappell’s approach to therapy is collaborative, individualized, and grounded in evidence-based practice. She believes that effective treatment begins with understanding the whole person—their history, values, strengths, and the contexts in which they live. Dr. Chappell draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), family systems approaches, mindfulness-based interventions, and anger management strategies, tailoring these tools to fit each client’s unique needs and goals.
Dr. Chappell strives to create a therapeutic space that feels safe, respectful, and engaged, where clients can explore challenges openly while also developing concrete skills they can apply in daily life. My background in research and program development informs an integrated perspective that balances clinical rigor with flexibility and responsiveness.
Treatment Planning: Treatment planning is a collaborative process. Together, we identify goals that are meaningful, realistic, and aligned with what matters most to you. Dr. Chappell emphasizes clarity and structure while remaining open to adjusting the plan as needs evolve over time. Interventions are selected intentionally, with attention to both short-term relief and long-term sustainability.
Dr. Chappell views treatment as an active partnership—one that supports steady progress through small, intentional steps rather than quick fixes. This approach allows change to unfold in a way that is manageable, empowering, and grounded in everyday life.
CA License #: PSY36397