Nicole Smith

Hello, I’m Nikki Smith, LPC, and I have over 18 years of experience supporting clients through trauma, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, and the complex ways our experiences shape how we function today. My career began in 2008 with ten years of work in foster care and adoption, where I supported children, adolescents, and families navigating complex trauma and systemic challenges. I then spent time providing therapeutic day treatment in schools and mentoring at-risk children and families before returning to graduate school to pursue what I had always wanted to do — clinical therapy. 

These experiences gave me a realistic, grounded understanding of the world and strengthened my ability to meet clients with compassion, attunement, and a deep appreciation for the diverse circumstances that shape their lives. Each role expanded my clinical lens and continues to supplement the work I do today.

In recent years, my practice has focused primarily on adults, integrating trauma-informed care, nervous system education, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I fully believe that our thoughts influence our feelings, and our feelings influence our actions, and I work with clients to identify and shift these patterns in ways that support healing, confidence, and meaningful change. 

My guiding philosophy is calm the body, calm the mind. I incorporate grounding, breathwork, and mindful awareness into therapy, drawing from the steady, intuitive way animals respond to human emotion. My professional experience working with equines has strengthened my appreciation for attunement, regulation, and the importance of creating a therapeutic environment where clients can settle, feel safe, and reconnect with themselves. While my telehealth practice does not include equine-assisted therapy, the grounding principles learned through that work inform the calm, attuned presence I bring to each session.

I believe deeply in choice, collaboration, and empowerment. Trauma, anxiety, and depression can all diminish a person’s sense of voice, and therapy should be the place where that voice is reclaimed. I work alongside clients, ensuring they have agency in the work we do together. Advocacy, autonomy, and partnership are central to my approach, and I strive to create a space where clients feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their healing. 

I am committed to working with clients from all backgrounds, identities, and belief systems. I welcome and integrate what is meaningful to each person — including religious, spiritual, cultural, or personal values — while also honoring those who do not identify with any of these frameworks. My work is grounded in the full biopsychosocial spectrum, and my goal is to ensure every client feels safe, valued, and supported in bringing their whole self into the therapeutic space. 

Outside of my clinical work, I value connection, creativity, and the grounding power of nature. I find joy in the magic of Disney World, the calm of the ocean, and the sparkle of small moments that bring light into everyday life. Photography allows me to capture the beauty of nature, and time with my family and friends reminds me of the importance of support, belonging, and shared experiences. These personal values reflect the same principles I bring into therapy: presence, connection, and the belief that healing is strengthened through supportive relationships. 

I have provided therapy in outpatient offices, schools, and experiential environments. I completed my undergraduate degree at James Madison University and my graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. My work is centered on helping clients build regulation, resilience, and a renewed sense of control over their internal world. 

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

Driven by a passion for supporting individuals grappling with challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-worth, and trauma, I tailor my therapeutic approach to each client's unique needs. Embracing person-centered treatment, mindfulness-based techniques, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I strive to empower individuals to navigate their healing journey with resilience and self-compassion. I firmly believe in a holistic biopsychosocial approach that acknowledges the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, including considerations of spiritual and religious aspects to address the diverse needs of my clients.

I aim to provide comprehensive support that honors the whole person. As your clinical therapist, I am dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your inner world, cultivate resilience, and embark on a transformative journey towards healing. Together, we will navigate challenges, celebrate victories, and uncover the innate strength within you. I look forward to joining you on this path of self-discovery and empowerment.

Which evidence-based modalities do you specialize in, and how are they applied?

I utilize evidence-based therapies, including, Psychotherapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy & Trauma-Focused Therapy. 

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

As your therapist, I bring to our therapeutic relationship a profound sense of empathy and a steadfast dedication to providing compassionate care. With years of experience working with individuals who have endured multi-generational trauma, as well as abuse, neglect, and sexual trauma, my biggest strength lies in my ability to deeply understand and connect with the emotions and experiences you carry within you. My empathetic nature enables me to walk alongside you in your journey of healing without judgment or reservation. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your pain, fears, and vulnerabilities knowing that you are heard, seen, and valued.

Through our work together, I will draw upon my experience in navigating complex layers of trauma to guide you towards resilience, self-compassion, and empowerment. I recognize the profound impact that multi-generational trauma and interpersonal violations can have on one's sense of self and well-being, and I am here to help you navigate this intricate terrain with courage and grace. I firmly believe in the transformative power of compassionate care and the healing potential of our therapeutic relationship. Together, we will embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing, honoring your unique strengths and resilience along the way.