Hi there! I’m Nicole (she/her) and I am a clinical intern at Integrated Counseling and in my final stretch of my Master’s program at UNC. I’ve acquired nearly a year’s worth of counseling experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds. Previously I’ve had the opportunity to work in various clinical settings, including college counseling centers, residential treatment facilities, and equine-assisted therapy programs.

In sessions with clients, I am committed to creating a safe and supportive space to collaborate on healing and self discovery together. Within sessions, I meet clients with curiosity and without judgment as I invite them to be vulnerable, experiment, and take risks. Having experienced therapy personally, I know of the importance of gaining a strong, safe, and empowering relationship between therapist and client, and this is one of my biggest priorities in my own work with clients.

I find a lot of joy working with adolescents (12+), adults, and older adults (50+),as every stage of our life brings distinct challenges and growth that deserve attention and care.  I am especially passionate about working with clients navigating life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues, women’s issues, identity development, trauma, anxiety and spiritual/existential exploration. Through various personnel and professional experiences, I am passionate about working with folks from the LGBTQ+ community. While I acknowledge I am not apart of this community myself, I am dedicated to all people feeling secure to create a place of safety and exploration within the therapy room. I believe every client has unique qualities and needs, so I aim to create a personalized therapy process that hones in on client strengths, unique worldviews, and goals. In my sessions with clients,

I practice from Gestalt therapy, Existential therapy, and Attachment therapy where I value mind and body connection as we increase self-awareness to accept our whole selves and take steps to change and create the life that we want, and find purpose and meaning in our lives. I aim to show up authentically and energetically to sessions and will challenge my clients to expand their abilities and stretch themselves. I’ve been told that my approach to therapy is a warm blend of directness and care, with a strong emphasis on strengths and a holistic perspective.

I want to note that I am also a fellow human on a journey of healing. I am a human who has struggled with hyper-independence, anxiety, perfectionism, and loneliness. I have navigated challenging relationships and abuse, a divorced and blended family, spiritual exploration, grief and loss of loved ones and opportunities, chronic illness, and the many struggles of trying to find my place in this often busy and stressful world. Starting therapy involves facing unknowns and taking brave steps in your unique healing journey. While our experiences may differ, I share my vulnerability to offer hope and emphasize the potential for growth when connecting with a counselor who provides empathy, understanding, and the space to heal during your challenging moments in life.

In my free time you can find me and my partner in the mountains hiking, backpacking, skiing, or camping. In addition to my counseling job, I work with horses which includes riding and training, and teaching others horsemanship skills.  I also enjoy creating artwork, perfecting new yoga poses, and cuddling with my cat. While you have the option to work with any therapist, if something in my bio resonates with you, I’d be delighted to meet you and explore whether we make great team for your healing journey ahead.