As of Jan 26th our new address will be 2525 Camino Del Rio South, Ste 107, SD CA 92108.

About Me

Things you might like to know…

I am a private practice psychotherapist.  My areas of specialty are Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy on a foundation of Depth Psychology. I have provided services to a variety of populations including: LGBT, Trans-Gender men and women, and couples with a partner who is Trans-Gender, kink and polyamorous individuals and couples, and transgender adolescents and children. I have also worked with active duty military as well as vets who are transgender. 

Awarded Ph. D. Nov 2021 – Dissertation title: An Exploration of the Lived Experience of CIS women with Transgender Partners.

In 2012 an article that I wrote was published in The Journal of Systemic Therapies. The article proposed Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) as an effective way to help couples with a member who is Trans-Gender. I have unique experience that allows me to be an ally to Trans-Gender people and their spouses, SO’s and children. This rich life experience informs my work with Trans-Gender people and their families. 

In April of 2011 I led the design team for an educational event called “Understanding TransGender Families: Insight for Educators, Therapists, Students and the Community”. This was a panel discussion event that was held at Alliant International University. I also participated in the event as a voice advocating for the families and spouses of transgender people.

I received my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University in May of 2011, and I have completed course work for my PhD at Pacifica Graduate Institute. I am currently in the process of writing my dissertation. 

From 2011-2015 I was in practice at Personal Evolution Psychotherapy providing adherent DBT skills training by facilitating groups and being accessible for 24/7 coaching calls. Individual DBT therapy sessions were also provided. 

My practicum work (1200 hours) was done at Second Chance Program San Diego. Second Chance is a not for profit organization providing mental health services, job readiness and life skills training, job placement services and affordable housing to adults and youth from a variety of social and economic conditions. I have also provided Emotionally Focused Therapy at Alliant Couple and Family Clinic. 

For two years I have volunteered as a Cabin Big Buddy for Camp Erin San Diego. Camp Erin is a weekend camp for children who are grieving the loss of a loved one. Camp is provided free of charge to children ages 6-17 and is sponsored by San Diego Hospice and The Moyer Foundation. 

I am a San Diego native who grew up in a military family. In 2007 I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy specializing in Eastern Thought, with a minor in Religious Studies from California State University at Northridge.  My background in religious studies allows me to authentically align with clients from a variety of religious perspectives. I utilize mindfulness in all areas of my practice as well as in my personal life. 

I have a heart of compassion for everyone I work with. My personal philosophy is to meet my clients where they are, and to help them create and participate effectively in a life worth living. My over-arching goal in the field of psychology is to be a Therapist/Advocate for the Significant Other, family, and friends of Trans-Gender people whether actively in transition or considering it. My interest lies in the area of enrichment and empowerment for Trans-Gender people and their families. 

I am also certified to conduct “Hold Me Tight” relationship workshops for couples utilizing EFT and to conduct “Seeking Safety” an evidence based practice group therapy program for trauma and/or substance abuse. I have also conducted “Meaning of Life” group therapy for substance abuse adapted for mindfulness/meditation.  

I am an active member of SDPA/LGBT group, WPATH, ICEEFT, AAMFT, CAMFT, NCFR, SDPA/LGBTQII and the American Philosophical Association.

 

My info:

Name:
Donna M. Chapman

Pronouns:
Donna/she/her/hers

Education:
PhD Depth Psychology Pacifica Graduate Institute Master of Arts, Marriage and Family Therapy, Alliant International University

Links:
Darlene Tando, LCSW
ICEEFT
Gender Life/Forum
TS Roadmap
Dr. Becky.com
Trans Family, Youth, Allies
San Diego LGBT Center
Bethel Family Counseling
Follow Your Compass Therapy
Applied DBT Clinicians
Personal Evolution Psychotheraphy
Second Chance Program
The Moyer Foundation
TransFamily Support Services

For information or to request an appointment

call: (619) 908-9908
email: icare@dmchapman.com.

Contact Me

Dr. Donna M. Chapman Ph.D. LMFT,
Marriage and Family Therapist, #83943

2525 Camino Del Rio South, Ste 107
San Diego, CA 92108

For information or to request an appointment

Call

(619) 908-9908

Email

icare@dmchapman.com

Message Me

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© Dr. Donna M. Chapman Ph.D. LMFT, Marriage and Family Therapist. All Rights Reserved