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I am the Clinical Director at Carolina Counseling and Psychiatry. My experience spans a variety of clinical settings, including hospitals, clinics, and substance use centers, giving me a deep understanding of the mental health system in South Carolina. I'm committed to ongoing learning and am not afraid to seek additional training to better support your mental health needs.

My primary focus areas include addiction, anxiety, trauma, and chronic health/pain. I take great pride in helping clients comprehend their experiences and chart a path to health and success. Utilizing a solution-oriented approach, I empower clients to make meaningful changes and decisions that align with their personal goals.

Educational Background:

• B.S. in Business Management from Anderson University – SC
• M.S. in Marketing from Clemson University
• Master’s in Education/Education Specialist degree, specializing in Clinical Mental Health from Clemson University (2017)

With 6 years of practice as a therapist and full licensure since 2023, I assist individuals in managing anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, and relationship issues. I firmly believe in each person's capacity for growth and change and aim to guide you along your journey.

I am trained in various methods, including motivational interviewing, and I am currently working towards a trauma certification. Additionally, I am certified in Hypnotherapy through the National Guild of Hypnotists, Inc., which is particularly beneficial for anxiety management. I work with individuals aged 11 and up and plan to start training in ERP for OCD in the coming year.

Clients describe me as non-judgmental, kind, and empathetic. I provide necessary confrontations in a supportive manner, always with your best interests at heart. As an African American female, I understand that starting therapy can be challenging. My goal is to make your experience comfortable and safe, ensuring you feel empowered to seek help when needed. Life is hard, but we can take this journey together to achieve your goals.

I believe in meeting people where they are, without judgment. If you’ve ever felt misunderstood or isolated, you’ve found a place where you can feel accepted and supported.

With 8 years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals navigate various challenges. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (ADC), and someone trained in Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES), my goal is to create a collaborative, nonjudgmental, and client-centered environment for healing.

At our practice, we strive to help you build a strong foundation for your life. You are the architect of your own journey, and I am here to guide you toward becoming your best self.

Greetings! I am Debra Chapman Epps.

I am a people person at heart. Throughout my personal, academic, and professional life, I have always been fascinated by the resilience of the human heart and mind. My journey into the mental health field stems from a deeply rooted compassion and a mission to help others, driven by the motto: “Diagnosis is NOT your destiny!”

With 30 years of experience in mental health, I have worked across the full spectrum of clinical care, including community agencies, clinical day programs, residential treatment centers, and inpatient psychiatric hospitals. Over the last 15 years, I have focused on providing outpatient, community-based counseling and psychoeducation services.

My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, trauma, grief, and other stress-related disorders. I understand that while stress is a part of everyday life, it can significantly impact your health, functioning, relationships, and overall quality of life. Seeking help during times of need or struggle is a courageous step.

Experience, education, and training form the backbone of a provider’s competence; however, caring and empathy are gifts from the heart.

Educational / Credentialing Background:

• B.A. in Social and Behavioral Sciences – Psychology Major, University of South Florida
• M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (formerly Counseling and Guidance Services)
• Licensed Professional Counselor (1997)
• Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (2004)
• National Certified Counselor (2010)

My hope is to help, educate, and empower individuals to face their struggles, manage and alleviate their symptoms, and maximize their capacity to recover and overcome. At the core of my approach, I draw from human growth and development (psychodynamic), cognitive-based therapies, prolonged exposure therapy, and interpersonal therapy.

Life can be challenging, and sometimes painful. My goal is to provide a safe, judgment-free space where clients feel supported and understood. I strive to guide them toward interventions and therapies that will enhance their ability to function, improve their quality of life, and rise above their current circumstances to reach their true potential and identity.

Remember, “Diagnosis is NOT your destiny, nor your identity!”

Jean Chunyo, MSPAS, PA-C, is a dedicated and compassionate member of our team, bringing experience and expertise in psychiatry and addiction medicine.

Originally from Erie, PA, Jean enlisted in the United States Air Force during college, where she studied Radiologic Science. After several years as an Ultrasound Technologist, she returned to school, graduating with honors from Cleveland State University with a Bachelor of Science and an undergraduate certificate in Bioethics. She then attended the University of Kentucky, earning a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies.

Jean moved to South Carolina to continue her practice, and she is now a vital part of our team.

Outside of her professional life, Jean enjoys a rich personal life with her four grown children, seven grandchildren, and three Great Pyrenees fur babies, along with several goats and chickens. In her free time, Jean loves traveling, watching sports, gardening, and making cold process soap.

At Carolina Counseling and Psychiatry, Jean Chunyo is committed to providing personalized and compassionate care to all her patients. 

Welcome to Carolina Counseling and Psychiatry! I bring years of dedicated experience in the mental health and substance abuse field. My journey has equipped me with an understanding of the challenges individuals face and a passion for offering the highest quality care.

I am committed to providing exceptional service to all clients, ensuring that everyone feels supported, understood, and empowered. At Carolina Counseling and Psychiatry, we strive to create a welcoming environment where your well-being is our number one priority.

I am proud to lead a team dedicated to helping you achieve your mental health and wellness goals.