Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it. – Tori Amos
Nicki is currently in network with Aetna, Anthem, BCBSIL PPO, Blue Choice, United Healthcare and Cigna. She is also offering self-pay and can also provide a SuperBill if requested.
Hi there! I am a bilingual (Spanish/English) Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. My counseling philosophy is grounded in the belief that every person has the capacity for personal growth and positive change. I approach therapy with a non-judgmental and empathetic attitude, creating a safe space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, where the client and therapist work together to identify goals and create a personalized treatment plan that best suits their needs. My goal as a therapist is to help clients gain insight, develop coping skills, and overcome obstacles, so that they can lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
APPROACH
I consider my approach to be integrative, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic, and Strength Based Therapies. More importantly, I believe that forming a therapeutic, connected relationship can facilitate the most healing. Here is brief explanation:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence based approach in which negative thoughts and distortions in thinking are challenged. Once the patterns of thinking are identified, we work to change those patterns which will in turn change your feelings and then your behaviors.
Humanistic Therapy is a client centered approach in which the therapist will strive to understand the clients experience from their perspective. A supportive and non-judgmental environment allows the client to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors freely. The goal is to help the client develop self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-esteem, which are considered essential for personal growth and well-being.
Strength Based Therapy is based on the belief that every person has unique strengths and capabilities that can be harnessed to help them overcome difficulties and achieve their goals. It helps shift the focus from problems and limitations to potential and possibilities.
QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
2018 – Masters in Counseling, Summa Cum Laude | Northeastern Illinois University
2011 – Bachelors in Spanish Teacher Education, Magna Cum Laude | Illinois State University
LANGUAGES
Spanish and English
EXPERIENCE
I have experience working in multiple settings including in schools and community agencies. During my graduate studies, I interned at an Elementary School in Lincolnshire as a school counselor. At this school, I gained experience working with children with a variety of presenting problems. I also lead groups for students and facilitated group therapy. In my time at a community agency in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood, I worked mainly with adults searching for help in navigating social services. The main presenting problems were anxiety, depression, transitional stress, work stress and grief. I also have experience working at schools in the US, Colombia and Spain. My responsibility ranged from teaching and counseling in these environments.
PERSONAL
In my free time, I like to perform in community theater musicals as well as do yoga and go hiking! I grew up doing theater and it always brought me so much joy. Because of this passion, I am interested in creative arts therapies. I also love to travel and explore new cultures with my husband who I met while living abroad in Spain. Just like learning about new cultures, I believe the best therapy happens when the client learns about new aspects of themselves and is able to apply what they learn in therapy to their everyday life.