Heather Nicholson, ASW

During sessions with Heather (she/her), you'll be met with compassion, authenticity, and a welcoming atmosphere. She is passionate about creating a safe space where children, teens, young adults, and families feel comfortable being themselves. Heather may be a great fit if you're looking for a therapist to help your child or teen navigate anxiety, emotional regulation, school-related challenges, life transitions, or the effects of trauma, or if you're seeking support in strengthening your family's relationships.

Heather specializes in working with children, teens, young adults, and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, adoption and attachment-related concerns, behavioral challenges, self-esteem issues, academic barriers, and other life and relationship stressors. She especially enjoys helping younger children build healthy emotional regulation skills while partnering with parents to better understand and support their child's unique needs.

Heather's approach is trauma-informed, strengths-based, and tailored to each client's individual needs. She incorporates techniques from a variety of therapeutic approaches, drawing heavily from Solution-Focused Therapy, Developmental Theory, CBT, DBT, and Attachment Theory. Heather works collaboratively with clients to help them build practical skills, strengthen relationships, and move toward their personal goals while feeling safe and supported throughout the process.

Heather received her Master of Social Work and Bachelor of Arts in Child and Adolescent Development from California State University San Marcos. She also holds a Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPSC) from San Jose State University. Her experience includes work in nonprofit organizations, crisis centers, community-based services, and school settings, where she has supported children, adolescents, and families from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds, family structures, and life experiences.