Dr. Courtney Chism

LICSW

Alabama

Experienced LICSW offering collaborative care

Continue with Courtney

At a glance

Credentials

LICSW

License

LICSW, Alabama / 5265C

NPI

1144872524

Experience

16 years

Languages

English

Location

Alabama

Details come from information the therapist supplied to BetterHelp. A license can be checked with the state board.

1. About Courtney

   Dr. Courtney Chism is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) with 16 years of experience helping people through difficult seasons. She focuses on common struggles like depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problems, trauma and low self-esteem. Her style is warm and client-centered, and she aims to create a calm space where people can talk at their own pace.

   She uses practical, evidence-based tools to address everyday life problems. That can mean learning new ways to manage strong emotions, practicing skills for clearer communication, or identifying values that guide change. Motivational Interviewing is one of the approaches she brings to sessions to help people find motivation for change.

   Dr. Chism pays attention to the whole person, including issues like aging and caregiver stress, chronic illness and pain, body image, attachment and abandonment concerns. She also addresses relationship challenges such as betrayal, commitment questions, and the strain of separation or divorce.

   Her approach blends Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral techniques, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy when helpful. She works collaboratively, offering straightforward guidance and practical strategies rather than jargon-heavy explanations.

   People who come to her can expect a respectful, steady presence and help building skills that carry into daily life. She invites clients to take therapy at a pace that feels right, and she supports gradual, sustainable shifts rather than quick fixes.

2. Therapeutic approaches that fit online care

   Dr. Chism often uses Motivational Interviewing to help people clarify reasons for change and find their own motivation. This approach is conversational and goal-focused, and it can help when someone feels stuck or unsure about next steps.
   
   She also uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which focuses on identifying personal values and taking actions that match those values even when emotions are difficult. Client-Centered Therapy is part of her practice too, offering a respectful, nonjudgmental space where the person’s experience guides the work.
   
   Finding the right approach is part of the process. She will work collaboratively to identify which methods fit a person’s needs, goals, and preferences rather than insisting on a single technique. This helps tailor sessions so they address what matters most to the client.
   
   If you are considering online therapy, confirm the session options before booking since formats are not listed here. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy schedule, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and remove travel time. Some approaches translate well to remote work because they rely on conversation and skill practice rather than hands-on activities. A licensed professional can help decide how to structure sessions to match everyday life and goals.

4. Areas of expertise

   Primary focus

   Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression

   Additional focus areas

   AbandonmentAging and geriatric issuesAttachment issuesBody imageCaregiver issues and stressChronic pain, illness, and disabilityCommitment issuesCommunication problemsControl issuesDivorce and separationEmptinessForgivenessGuilt and shameImpulsivityInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessJealousyLife purposeMidlife crisisVeteran and Armed Forces IssuesMoney and financial issuesMood disordersNarcissismObsessions, compulsions, and OCDPanic disorder and panic attacksPersonality disordersPostpartum depressionPost-traumatic stressPregnancy and childbirthPrejudice and discriminationSelf-loveSocial anxiety and phobiaWomen's issuesWorkplace issues

   Therapeutic approaches

   Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)Mindfulness TherapyMotivational InterviewingNarrative TherapyPsychodynamic TherapySolution-Focused TherapyTrauma-Focused TherapySystemic Therapy

   Experience

   16+ years

   Listed in

   Alabama

   Languages

   English

5. Frequently asked questions

   What concerns does Dr. Chism commonly address?

   She works with people facing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, trauma and self-esteem issues. She also focuses on topics like caregiver stress, chronic illness and attachment concerns.

   How would you describe her therapeutic style?

   Her style is client-centered and collaborative, with a warm, steady presence. She emphasizes practical skills and supports people at their own pace.

   How long has she been practicing?

   She has 16 years of experience working with individuals on a range of emotional and life challenges.

   What are her credentials and where is she based?

   She holds an AL LICSW and practices in Alabama.

   Which languages are sessions offered in?

   Sessions are offered in English.

   Can international clients work with her?

   International clients are not currently accepted.

   How does payment and cost work?

   Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

   What should I do to begin therapy?

   Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist availability.

6. Online talk therapy is not emergency or medical care. Stopping or cutting down alcohol or other drugs can be unsafe without medical advice. In immediate danger? Crisis numbers

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