Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Jackson, MS

For more than 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside individuals, couples, and families as they work toward healing, growth, and change. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor, and Substance Abuse Professional, I bring both deep clinical knowledge and a compassionate, down-to-earth approach to therapy.

I specialize in helping clients navigate life’s most personal challenges—including relationship and intimacy concerns, life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, and mental health struggles. I also provide substance abuse treatment, DOT/SAP evaluations, and recovery support using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Reality Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, the Duluth Model, and the Matrix Model.

I have a special commitment to serving Black communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people living with HIV, re-entry populations, sex workers, and youth facing challenges. I understand how personal, cultural, and systemic factors shape each person’s story, and I create a safe, affirming space where clients feel truly seen and heard.

In our sessions, you can expect a respectful, judgment-free environment where your voice matters. I believe therapy works best as a partnership—we’ll set goals together, explore what’s holding you back, and develop practical strategies you can use in daily life a more fulfilling life. Whether you’re seeking support for a specific issue or simply want to invest in your personal growth, I’m here to help you take that next step.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), approved by the Mississippi Board of Counselors, a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), approved by the Utah Department of Commerce, certified in DBT, and a certified parent trainer. I am a published author. I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my undergraduate degree in psychology at Mississippi University for Women (2003). I also earned a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University (2012).

My commitment to you is simple: I will listen carefully, communicate openly, and act with integrity in every interaction. I’ll take the time to understand your unique goals, challenges, and values, and I’ll tailor my approach to meet your needs rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions. You can expect transparency from me at every step. I’ll explain not only what I recommend, but why I recommend it, so you always feel informed and empowered to make decisions.

I assist children, teens, young adults, and adults work through tough times and difficult emotions, life’s transitions, and relationship challenges. Whether it’s a child with big feelings and educational barriers, a teen feeling isolated and unsure of themselves, or an adult attempting to navigate anxiety, stress, burnout, or identity shifts - I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore what’s going on and facilitate lasting change.

Hi! Im April Kitchens, LCSW. I am thrilled that we have crossed paths. If you are here, you have done half of the work! Im passionate about helping others manage OCD, anxiety backed disorders, depression and other stressors that life has handed to you. We all experience difficulties but when enough is enough we could use a helping hand. I am that hand.