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Nicole Plaisted

Visit Type:
In Person, Virtual

Here to Help You Heal

I primarily work with adults of all ages, while also welcoming children and adolescents into my practice. I support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, self-esteem concerns, and identity-related challenges. I also work with people experiencing ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), burnout, perfectionism, and life transitions. I'm particularly interested in helping people better understand themselves, explore attachment styles and codependency, and break cycles of generational trauma that may be affecting their relationships and well-being.

I understand that opening up to someone isn't easy, and you don't need to have everything figured out before starting therapy. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, struggling with difficult emotions, or hoping to make changes in your life, we can work together to figure out where to begin. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental space and offer culturally sensitive, BIPOC- and LGBTQIA+-affirming care. I want you to feel comfortable being yourself and speaking openly about whatever is on your mind. Your input is an important part of therapy, and we'll work at a pace that feels right for you, focusing on your needs, strengths, and goals.

My Approach to Care

My approach is based in person-centered, humanistic, and integrative therapy. I bring empathy, authenticity, and collaboration into my work, and I'm an engaged and attentive therapist who takes an active role in helping you work through challenges. I believe it's important to understand not only what someone is experiencing in the present, but also how their past experiences, relationships, family dynamics, and personal beliefs may be influencing them today. I draw from narrative and psychodynamic perspectives to explore these connections, while also considering how trauma, nervous system responses, and psychological defense mechanisms can affect our emotions, behaviors, and relationships.

I incorporate Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and grounding techniques to help you identify your goals, manage difficult emotions, build self-awareness, establish healthier boundaries, and develop practical coping skills. I also use elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), particularly when working on negative self-talk and unhelpful thought patterns. When working with children, I incorporate play-based activities and creative arts interventions to help them express themselves. I understand that not every strategy works for everyone, so I regularly check in about what's helpful and adjust our approach when needed. I want therapy to be a place where you feel understood, while also gaining tools and strategies to help you make progress toward your goals.

A Journey into Exceptional Patient Care

My path into mental health counseling developed through years of studying psychology and working as a research assistant in different settings, including university labs, schools, a technology company, and a neuropsychology practice.

Early on, I worked as a caregiver and tutor for children on the autism spectrum, which taught me the importance of patience, flexibility, and understanding each person's needs. I've also always enjoyed learning about different cultures and perspectives. Coming from a multicultural background myself has given me a personal appreciation for how culture, identity, and our experiences growing up can shape the way we see ourselves and the world around us.

I earned my Master of Arts in Counseling for Mental Health & Wellness from New York University. During and after my graduate training, I gained clinical experience providing counseling in a community mental health setting. I worked with individuals facing a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and interpersonal challenges. I approach each person with an open mind and without judgment, taking the time to get to know them and understand where they're coming from.

Personal Interests

Outside of therapy, I enjoy making my own ceramics, practicing piano, listening to music, and attending concerts. I also love scuba diving, hiking, spending time in nature, traveling, and exploring different cultures. As a huge foodie, I'm always excited to discover new places and try different cuisines, whether close to home or abroad. I'm also a big fan of New York’s comedy clubs!

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