Hello, my name is Nicole Angel, and I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience. I hold a bachelor's degree in psychology and education, as well as a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused brief therapy, helping clients manage struggles with anxiety, depression, trauma, and various family and professional issues. Throughout my career, I have worked with trauma survivors, couples, and families, serving in roles such as juvenile dependency case manager and substance abuse counselor. My goal is to provide compassionate support and practical solutions to help my clients improve their well-being and relationships.
In your first session with me, you can expect a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment where you can openly share your concerns and goals. We'll start by discussing what brings you to therapy and any specific issues you're facing. I will ask questions to understand your background, including your personal history, relationships, and any previous experiences with therapy. Together, we will identify the primary areas you'd like to focus on and set some initial goals for our work together. This session is about building rapport, understanding your unique needs, and laying the foundation for a collaborative and effective therapeutic relationship. My aim is to ensure you leave the first session feeling heard, understood, and hopeful about the path forward.
My greatest strengths as a provider lie in my extensive experience and my compassionate, client-centered approach. With over 10 years of experience, I have a deep understanding of how to support individuals, couples, and families through various challenges. My background in trauma, couples counseling, and family therapy, combined with my work in substance abuse treatment and juvenile dependency, equips me with a diverse skill set to address a wide range of issues. What makes me unique is my ability to blend cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused brief therapy, providing both practical tools and a forward-looking perspective to help clients achieve their goals. My experience leading family therapy groups and participating in drug court has honed my skills in creating a supportive and structured environment for growth and healing. I am dedicated to empowering my clients by fostering resilience and promoting positive change, and I am passionate about helping them navigate their journeys toward better mental health and stronger relationships.
I am best positioned to serve clients who are navigating the complexities of trauma, anxiety, depression, and family or relationship issues. My ideal clients are individuals, couples, and families who are ready to embark on a journey of healing and growth. They share a common goal of improving their emotional well-being and strengthening their relationships. Whether they are struggling with the aftermath of trauma, seeking to improve communication and connection in their marriage, or facing professional and career challenges, my clients are committed to making positive changes in their lives. With my extensive experience in cognitive behavioral therapy and solution-focused brief therapy, I am dedicated to providing them with the tools and support they need to achieve lasting transformation.
Identify Issues: Begin by assessing problems and concerns. Understanding background, current situation, and specific issues to address. Self-Monitoring: Encourage monitoring of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors through journaling or thought records. This increases awareness of patterns and triggers. Cognitive Restructuring: Teach ways to identify and challenge negative or distorted thoughts. This will help to recognize cognitive distortions (e.g., all-or-nothing thinking, catastrophizing) and replace them with more balanced, realistic thoughts. Behavioral Activation: Encourage engagement in activities that are enjoyable or meaningful. This will improve mood and reduce avoidance. Problem-Solving Skills: Teach problem-solving techniques to address specific challenges. This involves defining problems, brainstorming solutions, evaluating options, and implementing plans. Relaxation Techniques: Introduce relaxation methods such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness to help clients manage stress and anxiety. Practice Skills: Assign homework to practice new skills or techniques learned in therapy. This reinforces learning and encourages clients to apply CBT principles in real-life situations. Self-Reflection: Encourage clients to reflect on their experiences and progress. This helps consolidate learning and identify areas needing further attention. Regular Check-ins: Regularly review the client's progress towards their goals. Adjust the therapy plan as needed based on their feedback and experiences.