LCSW, 6 years of experience
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia and Maryland, helping adults and couples work through anxiety, depression, relationship stress, burnout, and major life transitions. My style is warm, collaborative, and goal-focused. I use evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, and person-centered therapy, blending compassion with practical strategies so clients gain clarity, build confidence, and create meaningful, lasting change they can feel in daily life.
Your first session is about creating a safe space where you feel heard and understood. We’ll start by talking about what brought you to therapy, your current concerns, and what you hope to achieve. I’ll ask questions to better understand your history, relationships, and patterns, but we’ll go at a pace that feels comfortable for you. We’ll also talk about your strengths and what’s been helping you cope so far. By the end of the first session, we’ll have a clearer picture of your goals and an initial plan for how we’ll work toward them together. My goal is for you to leave feeling supported, understood, and hopeful about the process ahead.
My strengths include helping clients quickly identify the core issues behind their struggles, breaking problems into manageable steps, and blending emotional support with actionable strategies. I integrate CBT, ACT, supportive, person-centered, and strength-based approaches to create results clients can see and feel.
I work best with adults and couples who are ready to make changes but feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges. My clients often want to better understand their emotions, improve communication, set healthier boundaries, or navigate major life transitions with more confidence. Some are dealing with burnout or self-esteem struggles, while others are adjusting to new roles, losses, or changes. I also work with couples seeking to strengthen their connection, resolve conflicts, and rebuild trust. Whether you’re looking for practical coping strategies, emotional support, or a safe place to process, I meet you where you are and tailor our work to your needs and pace
1 rating with written reviews
February 11, 2025
After feeling very nervous about my 1st session, Nikelah made me feel very comfortable with talking with her. I look forward to more sessions.
I use CBT to help clients identify unhelpful thought patterns and the impact they have on emotions and behaviors. Together, we explore these patterns and develop practical strategies to challenge and replace them with healthier, more balanced thinking. This approach helps clients build skills they can use daily to manage anxiety, depression, and stress more effectively.
In supportive therapy, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can openly share their feelings and experiences. My role is to offer empathy, encouragement, and guidance while helping you process challenges and develop coping skills. This approach is especially helpful during times of stress, loss, or major life transitions.
I believe you are the expert on your own life. Using a person-centered approach, I meet you where you are and tailor therapy to your unique needs and pace. I create a warm, respectful environment that promotes self-exploration, personal growth, and empowerment, helping you uncover your own solutions and strengths.
I use ACT to help clients develop a more flexible and compassionate relationship with their thoughts and emotions. Instead of fighting difficult feelings, we focus on accepting them, identifying your core values, and taking committed action toward a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling.
I believe lasting change starts with recognizing and building on your existing strengths. In a strength-based approach, we identify your personal resources, successes, and abilities, and use them as the foundation for growth. This method empowers you to approach challenges with confidence and resilience.