Conversations with Dr. April Walker, LPC, LMHC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. April Walker, LPC, LMHC.

Hi Dr. April , please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey started with a deep passion for helping others. Early on, I believed that calling would take shape through the pursuit of a medical degree, but over time, I realized my heart was being pulled toward mental health. That shift became especially clear while taking a course in African American Psychology, where learning about the significant gaps in mental health services within the Black community ignited a deeper passion and sense of purpose. I became especially committed to supporting individuals who look like me and who have historically been underserved in mental health spaces. As a Black woman, I saw the need for representation that not only understands the cultural nuances of our experiences, but also encourages intentional care for mental wellness.

I began my journey after my undergraduate degree working in various mental health settings, from serving as a behavior technician with dually diagnosed individuals, caseworker for children in foster care, to obtaining my Master’s and spending nearly ten years supporting youth as a school counselor. During my time in schools, I became increasingly aware of the gaps in mental health services through the students and families I served. That realization led me to pursue my Doctoral degree and licensure as a professional counselor, and I have now been in private practice for almost four years, continuing the work of creating accessible, culturally responsive mental health support.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey I had to take to get where I am today was certainly not a smooth one. I spent the majority of my professional journey as a military spouse which meant frequent relocations and constant transitions. Each move brought new hurdles, from differences in state requirements, delays in licensure, and having to repeatedly prove my qualifications. I am now licensed in three states, but getting there required persistence, patience, and navigating a system that isn’t always designed for people with transient lifestyles.

Those roadblocks, combined with the instability of constantly starting over, led to a lot of self-doubt. Even with the encouragement of family and friends, I struggled with imposter syndrome; questioning whether I truly belonged in these spaces or had “earned” my seat at the table. Over time, I’ve learned that those feelings weren’t a reflection of my ability, but a response to systemic barriers and repeated disruption that shattered my confidence. Working through that has been a powerful part of my growth and has deepened my empathy for the clients I now support.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a licensed Psychotherapist, my work is centered on helping individuals change the trajectory of their lives by navigating the challenges that show up at home, school, and in the workplace. my practice-Empowering Pathways Counseling, is geared towards supporting and collaboratively working with clients to build and sustain positive mental health and overall wellness, meeting them exactly where they are in their journey. I’m especially known for creating a warm, affirming, and culturally responsive space where clients feel seen, supported, and empowered; which was the driving force of my business name. Beyond clinical work, I’m especially passionate about my role of mentorship, client advocacy, and community outreach.

I believe what sets me apart is my belief that counseling is not a one-size-fits-all process. Each person’s journey is personal and unique, and my goal is to guide clients toward healthier thoughts, behaviors, and emotional resilience in a way that honors their lived experiences. I take great pride in helping individuals feel empowered to live healthy, balanced, and abundant lives.

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
My definition of success has completely shifted as I’ve gotten older. It used to rest in titles and external achievements, but now I define success by growth, impact, and alignment with purpose. Success, to me, is showing up fully for myself and pouring into others from my overflow; it is through my ability to always be open to learn, adapt, and create meaningful change in the lives of those I serve. In my line of work and through my personal perspective, I’ve defined it through my ability to help clients feel empowered, seen, and capable of navigating life’s challenges, while also honoring my own journey of growth and resilience. Ultimately, I view success as living in a way that reflects my values, contributing positively to my community, and being an inspiration to others.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.empoweringpathways.net
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pathways2empowerment/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Empowering-Pathways-Counseling-LLC-100075744844526/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralwalker

Image Credits
Mike Dawkins