In our first session together, here's what you can expect

My name is Nicole Chess and I have a masters in sport psychology and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a Master's sport psychology degree from John F. Kennedy University and I have a Masters in marriage and family therapy. I also have a B.A. in Business with a specialization in management information systems from San Jose State University, which I played on the number #1 golf team for many years and was in the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association). I have a passion for helping individuals transform their lives and dreams into bigger and better ones. I will collaborate with you so we come up with a plan to implement practical ways to make them come true! I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy plus hypnotherapy. I can incorporate these inside therapy so that you can improve outside of therapy and in your daily life. My clients usually see improvement in as little as 3 to 4 sessions. I have worked with lawyers, pilots, pro athletes, techies, and people from all faiths and all walks of life. I also have half of two doctorate degrees I have not completed in transpersonal psychology from Sophia University and half of a doctorate in clinical psychology from San Diego University of Integrative Studies.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

I love meeting people where they are in terms of personal growth, emotional and psychological understanding of themselves and others. I will ask in-depth questions so that you may better understand how to help yourself in ways in which you may have sought out others for answers. I will help you learn to trust yourself and uncover areas that may be untapped, so that you may reach your full potential! I was a pro-golfer and love to use metaphors from sports, or other arts to psycho-educate or just use what you already know a lot about to speak "your language" so you can utilize that knowledge in your life. Sometimes even analyzing or sharing your dreams can give the "key" to unlock the door to areas that may have been hidden to you, so that you can uncover the best you, learn to love yourself and others and perform our best; you can be your own "star". My approach is unique as you are! Since we are all made a little different, I like to follow your own processes, so it is comfortable and natural to you. I have extensive training in goal-setting, mission statements, and hypnotherapy and following up with each to make those dreams come true. I do like to give practical small assignments that are simple and easy to incorporate outside of therapy so that in the sessions that follow; we can start to see transformations and really see an upward cycle in the quality of your daily living. If we don't record it we won't know when we reach the goal or if we are getting closer to it or need to readjust. I am structured and a "tough" coach but with empathy. I do expect your active participation inside and outside of therapy. How can you expect to make changes if you dont spend as much time on the new ways of thinking then the old ways of thinking? If you dont you will become frustrated, most likely quit therapy and come back at some point. Its all about you taking responsibility unfortunately "adulting". In my experience sometimes we dont click with therapists or didnt benefit because we are unwilling to take responsibility and be proactive in therapy which goes no where.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

🚨 No paperwork = no session. Starting therapy without forms is like trying to board a flight with no ID — we’re not going anywhere. I review everything ahead of time to make sure we’re a good fit. If not, I’ll let you know and help you find someone who is. No drama. No blank submissions. 🧠 In Session 1: We’ll map out your goals, how long you want to commit, and create a game plan (structure > vibes). Sessions are 45 mins. Please cancel early if needed. ⚠️ Miss 1 session = check-in. Miss 2 = referral. Therapy only works if you show up. 🧳 Going out of state or traveling more than 2 weeks? Tell me in advance — I can’t meet outside states I’m licensed in. Im licensed in Al, Texas, Ca. 🚗 And no driving during sessions, please! If you are in your car be prepared to give me location city and cross streets in case of an emergency. 📩 Message me via the portal — it’s secure and I usually reply same day. 📝 Before each session, press “Confirm Transcription” to get your session summary + next steps (your therapy cheat sheet). 💬 Not feeling the fit? Just say so — I’ll help you find a better match. Grown-up energy only. To let you know I am not a prescriber. I do not prescribe medicine so you can refer yourself back to grow to find a prescriber in your state. I also don't work with bi polar, personality disorders, borderline clients, or current substance use issues. It's best to specifically indicate to the Grow therapy system so it finds a therapist that's most specialized in those areas. Thank you for reading. I look forward to meeting you!