Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Capel.
Hi Kelly, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was the first (and only) kid in my family to attend a 4 year university. I knew I wanted to serve others, and at the time, I wanted to be a pediatrician. Unfortunately AND fortunately, I failed chemistry so I knew my chances of competing for a spot in medical school were slim to none! So, I picked a major that still gave me some wiggle room to decide what I wanted to do. While in college, I worked at an alcohol and drug abuse treatment center. This job brought me joy. It would be about 10 years later that I was reminded of that joy and I began to seek educational opportunities to explore becoming a substance abuse counselor. I entered into a masters program at Nova Southeastern University and after one year, I realized the great overlap between substance abuse and mental health. I tacked on an additional year and graduated with a masters in both substance abuse and mental health counseling. I landed a decent job and worked for 5 years with the military population. This was very rewarding but, I still felt I was missing something, like my purpose wasn’t being fulfilled. In 2024, I started my private practice, KC Counseling, PLLC. It is now, one year after starting my practice, that I feel a piece of that joy that I had before, the joy that I had been chasing but never seemed to catch. KCC, as I affectionally call my business, supports clients who are struggling with grief, trauma, and relationship issues. As I reflect back on my journey, I am forever grateful for each person I have interacted with, each obstacle, and each win.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Is any road smooth?? If it is I don’t want it! I had two life changing events occur on my journey – divorce and death. My divorce occurred in 2018; had I not been in my masters program, my journey may have ended differently. It was through what I was learning that kept me grounded. My mother died from metastatic colon cancer in October 2021. I am grateful to her for allowing me to be right beside her from her first appointment to her last breath. This experience helped me shape my practice. Grief is….different, dark, ugly, challenging, I mean I can go on. I want to give voice to the hurt and help people heal.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I am a Mental Health Counselor, licensed in NC, FL and GA. I am passionate about helping others push through insecurities, trauma, and grief and walk in their greatness. I also work with couples, which is challenging and rewarding work in itself. I’ve been called an asshole before because I don’t shy away from challenging clients and pushing them out of their comfort zones. I wear that asshole badge proudly – it’s what sets me apart. Therapy is hard work. I tell all of my clients upfront how I show up in the therapy room. My number one goal is to make sure my clients get out of therapy what they need to show up for themselves and others in all the best ways.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I’d invite your readers to give therapy a shot. Therapy is for everybody but not every therapist is going to be your cup of tea. It may take 2-3 therapists until you find the one that just gets you, and supports you the way you need. Most people have a primary care physician they see at least once a year and as needed. In the same way, get a mental health therapist! Once a month check-ins and more often if you feel like you need it!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.counselingwithkellyc.com
