Hi, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with six years of experience helping individuals move from feeling overwhelmed to feeling more in control, confident, and grounded. I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a highly effective, skills-based approach for managing depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Together, we’ll focus on building real-life tools you can use right away—whether that’s regulating intense emotions, navigating stress, or improving relationships. My approach is person-centered, which means your therapy is designed around you—not a rigid formula. I take the time to understand your unique experiences and goals so we can create a path forward that actually fits your life. Clients often come to me looking for practical strategies, deeper self-understanding, and meaningful, lasting change—and that’s exactly what we work toward. I’m committed to creating a space that feels supportive, collaborative, and genuine, where you can be yourself and make real progress at your own pace. And every now and then, you may be greeted by my Newfoundland, Teddy, or my cat, Misty, who occasionally make surprise appearances and tend to bring a little extra comfort (and a few smiles) to sessions.
In our first session, we’ll review confidentiality, my role as a mandated reporter, and consent to treatment, along with your intake forms, goals, and expectations for therapy. I know opening up can feel uncomfortable at first, and you’ll never be pressured to share more than you’re ready to. We can always adjust goals as needed, and my aim is to support you in overcoming challenges and ultimately feeling confident enough to end therapy when you’re ready.
If you’re wondering whether you’re truly living up to your potential, it may be a sign that something needs to shift. My therapeutic approach is person-centered and strengths-based, focused on helping you recognize the growth you’ve already achieved while clarifying what you want next. Together, we’ll build insight, confidence, and practical tools to help you move toward your goals and create a life that feels more aligned and fulfilling.
I am best positioned to work with individuals who are motivated for change and open to stepping outside of their comfort zone in order to grow. My clients are often navigating challenges like anxiety, relationship concerns, or feeling stuck, and they’re ready to actively engage in the process of building new skills and perspectives. They may not have all the answers, but they’re willing to be curious, try new approaches, and tolerate some discomfort in service of meaningful, lasting change.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help you build simple, practical skills for handling life’s challenges. Together, we work on things like staying present in the moment, managing overwhelming emotions, coping with stress in healthier ways, and improving communication in relationships. DBT is about finding a balance—accepting where you are right now while also learning tools to create positive change. The goal is to give you strategies you can actually use in your daily life to feel more in control and confident.
Exposure Response Prevention (ERP)
I use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to help you gradually face the thoughts or situations that feel overwhelming, especially if you struggle with anxiety or OCD. Instead of avoiding what feels scary, we take small, manageable steps together to approach it in a safe and supported way. At the same time, we practice resisting the urge to do the behaviors that temporarily relieve anxiety but keep the cycle going. Over time, this helps your brain learn that you can handle the discomfort and that the anxiety will naturally decrease, giving you more freedom and control in your daily life.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
I use Positive Psychology and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) to help you create meaningful change right now, not just talk about the past. Together, we focus on your strengths, what’s already working, and the small steps that can move you forward. Instead of getting stuck in problems, we identify clear, realistic goals and build on the skills and resilience you already have. This approach is practical, hopeful, and action-oriented—helping you see progress quickly while creating lasting change in your everyday life.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I focus on you as a whole person—not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. Using a Person-Centered Therapy (PCT) approach, I create a space where you feel genuinely heard, understood, and accepted without judgment. This means I follow your lead, respect your experiences, and work at your pace, rather than fitting you into a predetermined framework. By building a strong, trusting relationship, we can explore what matters most to you and support meaningful change in a way that feels authentic and aligned with who you are.
5 ratings with written reviews
July 2, 2025
By far the best therapist I’ve ever had. I feel comfortable talking and feel empower to make positive changes after my appointment.
May 15, 2025
Nicole Scharrs really great empowering person. She very open minded and has help me figure out challenges i need to overcome
April 29, 2025
Nicole is an exceptional therapist. She works to meet your goals and uses an eclectic approach, and not just a one-size-fits-all type of therapy. She is welcoming, warm, and real. She has brought forth so many unique ways of coping and viewing the world that I had never considered. Incredibly thankful for her!