About Me

Dr. Nichelle Chandler, pH.d.

Beautiful black woman doing graduate degree research on laptop

My Background

I discovered my passion for helping others as an investigator for Child Protective Services almost twenty-five years ago. I removed children from homes when allegations of abuse and neglect were substantiated.

While removing children from harm felt rewarding, witnessing homes being torn apart, not so much. I wanted to play an active role in keeping families together. That led me to pursue a counseling degree.

Helping families heal and navigate challenges that led me to remove children from homes many years ago has been the most rewarding experience of my life. I feel very blessed to do what I do!
Learn more about me from my Voyage Dallas Inspiring Stories interview andBrainz Magazine exclusive interview

Why I do what I do

I have the honor of helping women with Lupus find their voices, be more present and authentic, and cultivate the life they want, despite living with Lupus.
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As a therapist, I've found that working with women with Lupus is incredibly impactful due to the unique resilience, strength, and depth of emotion they bring to the therapeutic process. Women with Lupus often navigate complex roles and societal expectations, and through therapy, they can explore and embrace their authentic selves. Witnessing women with Lupus discover their inner strength, cultivate self-compassion, and create meaningful changes in their lives is both humbling and inspiring. Empowering women with Lupus to prioritize their mental health and well-being uplifts them and contributes to building healthier families, communities, and societies.
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That is a domino effect I love being part of!

WHAT I'M LIKE AS A THERAPIST

I am the opposite of how therapists are often depicted on television and in movies. You know, the 'how does that make you feel' therapist who speaks with a boring monotone pitch.
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Our sessions are more than just a friendly chat. They're a powerful tool for personal growth, delivered in a conversational style that feels like talking to a friend. One client summed it up perfectly: "You're cool and smart, and you 'keep it real' (slang for honest) in a professional and therapeutic way."
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My true personality comes through when I work with women with Lupus. Sometimes, I roll my eyes, sigh, or shake my head! Though a few things are constant, I do not judge my clients. I respect them, and I am 100 percent committed to helping them reach their goals.
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I am fully present and open. I am not afraid to self-disclose my past and present struggles with Lupus if it allows me to connect with my clients more deeply.
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I am human, and that comes across in my sessions. I make mistakes; I own them, apologize, and try to improve.
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For me, therapy does not fit into a confined window of time commitment. I have been known to pop up from my pillow in the wee hours of the night, experiencing an ah-ha moment relative to a therapy session, then write down the thought and bring it to the next session.

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Young black woman and whte woman wlak and talk together on college campus

How I work

My approaches are backed by research proving their effectiveness. I am not just winging it! I approach therapy for women with Lupus with the idea that what you tell yourself day in and day out has a huge effect on how you experience your life. Our thoughts affect the way we feel and the way we behave, so they’re an important starting point for therapy.
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I firmly believe that therapy for women with Lupus should adapt to their needs and preferences. It does not have to be confined to a room with a door. Many of my clients enjoy walking and talking therapy and combining therapy and yoga together. I am a therapist who is willing to incorporate any method necessary to help my clients get the results they want.
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My approach is holistic. Therefore, I will be interested in your nutrition, physical activity, and sleep regimen. Some clients have found it beneficial to incorporate other aspects of their wellness into our sessions. For example, I have had several clients walk on their treadmills during therapy sessions.

Want to know more?

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Education & Credentials

Here, you'll find more information about my training and professional qualifications.

Specialties

Check out my areas of expertise.