LCSW, 6 years of experience
New to Grow
I’m Nina Batista, a licensed clinical social worker who helps individuals navigate relationship struggles, trauma, and life transitions. Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed in their relationships, and my role is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can untangle what’s happening and begin to heal. My style is straightforward and down-to-earth — clients often describe me as the “no-nonsense best friend therapist” who will both support and challenge them. Together, we’ll focus on building clarity, healthier patterns, and a stronger connection to yourself
In our first session, my main goal is to help you feel comfortable and understood. We’ll start by talking about what brought you in, what’s been most difficult for you lately, and what you hope to get out of therapy. I’ll ask some questions about your history, relationships, and current stressors so I can get a clear picture of your experiences. You’ll also have space to share at your own pace — there’s no pressure to tell your whole story right away. Together, we’ll start identifying your goals and the areas you’d like to focus on. I’ll explain my approach and answer any questions you have, so you know what to expect moving forward. By the end of the session, most clients feel relief simply from being heard, validated, and having a plan for next steps.
Clients often tell me I feel like the “no-bs best friend” they wish they had — someone who listens without judgment, tells the truth with compassion, and helps them see things clearly. I won’t sugarcoat or just nod along; I’ll validate your experience while also challenging the patterns that keep you stuck. My style is direct, honest, and down-to-earth. You’ll get practical tools you can use outside of session, but you’ll also get a space where you feel deeply understood and supported. Think of me as both your therapist and your biggest advocate — the one who’s in your corner, helping you break unhealthy cycles and build the kind of relationships and life you actually deserve
I work with adults who are struggling in their relationships — whether that’s with a partner, a parent, a friend, or even themselves. Many of my clients feel stuck in patterns of conflict, loneliness, or self-doubt and want support in breaking free from cycles that don’t serve them. Clients I often support include those who are: Feeling unheard, dismissed, or unsupported in their relationships Unsure how to set or maintain healthy boundaries Struggling with trust, intimacy, or communication Experiencing anxiety, low mood, or trauma symptoms connected to relationships Wanting to understand past patterns so they can create healthier ones moving forward I also help clients who may not have the “right words” for what’s wrong but know something feels off in their relationships and want clarity, validation, and tools to heal. My approach blends compassion with practical skills, helping you feel more grounded in yourself and more confident in the way you connect with others. Whether your goal is to improve communication, recover from past hurts, or build stronger self-worth, I will meet you where you are and guide you toward lasting change.
I’ve been using CBT in my practice for the past five years. It’s helped dozens of clients challenge reoccurring thoughts and manage their anxiety. We’ll use CBT to recognize how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors influence each other. We’ll then use that knowledge to change your thinking patterns, which will help you lead a less anxious and stressed life
I’ve been using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in my practice for the past five years to help clients manage overwhelming emotions, improve relationships, and build coping skills. Together, we’ll focus on practical tools like mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. By learning and applying these skills, you’ll gain more balance and control in your life, helping you reduce stress and respond to challenges in healthier, more effective ways.
I’ve been using Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) in my practice to help clients understand how their relationships and life events impact their mood and overall well-being. Together, we’ll look at patterns in your communication, role transitions, and unresolved grief or conflict that may be contributing to stress or depression. By improving how you connect with others and how you navigate changes in your life, IPT can help you feel more supported, understood, and empowered in your relationships.