16+ Years Exp - LPC
Nicole Smith
16+ Years Exp
LPC
21 specialities
Accepts insurance
Telehealth appointments throughout
Call us for details on 16+ Years Exp
LPC21 specialitiesAccepts insurance
Nicole Smith
With a profound commitment to promoting healing and growth, I am Nikki Smith, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 16 years of experience in the mental health field. My journey began by dedicating a decade to working with children, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma in foster care and adoption settings at my local social services agency. This foundational experience instilled in me a deep understanding of the complexities of trauma and its impact on individuals and families. I attended James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA for my undergraduate work and completed my graduate program through Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA. After a brief period engaging in Therapeutic Day Treatment and child and family mentoring, I pursued further education to attain a clinical mental health counseling degree. Throughout my career, I have maintained a focus on serving youth aged 5-17, incorporating family work into the individual work, and expanding my practice to include adults during my LPC residency. I have had the privilege of offering therapy in diverse settings, including in-office sessions, school-based interventions, and incorporating equine-assisted therapy into my approach. In my personal time, I find solace and rejuvenation in nature, whether it be capturing its beauty through amateur photography or finding joy in cherished moments at Disney World with my family. At the beach, I revel in the soothing rhythms of the ocean, reflecting on the power of nature to bring comfort and peace.
Witnessing the transformation of an adolescent client with repeated trauma starting at the age of 3, who initially trusted no one and felt hopeless about therapy to gradually opening up, engaging in the healing process, and developing a sense of trust, self-worth, and hope was a profoundly significant breakthrough in my work as a therapist. Seeing this client transition from struggling with suicidal ideations and low self-esteem to envisioning a future filled with self-love and employing learned coping skills was a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of a therapeutic relationship built on trust and support.
Being a therapist is a privilege, and I approach each client with Unconditional Positive Regard. You can trust that I will never judge or belittle you, allowing you to continue the important work of opening up and healing. Our sessions will be focused on meeting your goals and improving your daily life and overall mental health. I tailor each session to fit your individual needs, providing as much structure as necessary to support your growth and progress.
During our first session, I aim to establish a strong connection with you by getting to know you and understanding the challenges you are facing. You are encouraged to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with, and we can start working on addressing your concerns from the get-go or take a slower pace based on your preferences. Building rapport is a crucial part of our initial session. This is a safe space for you to share what's important to you, and I am here to listen, support, and guide you through your therapeutic journey.
My primary motivation as a therapist stems from a deep desire to facilitate healing and empower individuals to become the best versions of themselves. Witnessing clients overcome challenges and grow in resilience fuels my passion for this work. My commitment to helping others stems from a place of genuine empathy and understanding. I believe in the transformative power of therapy and am honored to walk alongside clients on their journey towards healing and personal growth.
Highlights
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.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
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.
Specialities
