My Story: What if the change you’re seeking isn’t about becoming someone new—but about returning to the parts of yourself that were never broken?

I am a Caribbean-American licensed social worker with over 20 years of experience; as an immigrant whose parents migrated to the United States in search of opportunity, I understand what it means to navigate multiple cultures, hold dual identities, and carry the silent weight of resilience.

I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Hunter College – Silberman School of Social Work, with a focus on Organizational Management and Leadership, Health and Mental Health Practice.  My practice is grounded in a deep commitment to equity, dignity, and healing-centered care. I create a safe, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment where clients can overcome barriers, explore their experiences, and grow through experiential and evidence-based approaches.

My clinical background spans housing support, mental health, substance use, and justice-involved populations. I bring a trauma-informed, strengths-based lens to each session, drawing from modalities such as CBT, DBT, internal family systems, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing. I work collaboratively with clients to foster resilience, insight, and transformation.

I became a therapist because I know what it means to carry the weight of responsibility while silently navigating pain. As a woman of color, I’ve held space for people who were often overlooked—those who’ve been told to “push through,” “stay strong,” or “be quiet.” I believe that therapy can be a radical act of self-reclamation.

Nichole Johnson, LMSW

Who I Work With

Two plants on a table

I specialize in working with women in leadership, adolescents, young adults, trauma survivors, and neurodivergent individuals. Whether you’re leading others, finding your identity, or healing from complex trauma, I offer a grounded, culturally responsive space where all parts of you are welcome.

I also work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, identity exploration, ADHD, relationship issues and life transitions. I have experience supporting clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities.

My Therapy Approach

I create a safe, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment where clients can overcome barriers, explore their experiences, and grow through experiential and evidence-based approaches.  I provide a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their inner worlds, make sense of their experiences, and develop tools to move forward.

My approach is experiential, strengths-based, and trauma-informed. Together, we explore not just what hurts—but what’s possible. Healing isn’t about fixing you—it’s about reconnecting with the parts of you that have always known how to survive.  You don’t have to carry it alone anymore. Your story matters. Let’s honor it—together.

Why Work with Me

Choosing the right therapist is a powerful first step—and it’s important to find someone who truly sees and supports you. As a Caribbean-American, licensed social worker with over 20 years of experience, I bring both clinical expertise and lived understanding. I know what it means to navigate cultural expectations, identity shifts, generational pressure, and emotionally overwhelm—often without a roadmap.

Clients choose to work with me because I offer more than just tools and techniques—I offer a safe, affirming, and nonjudgmental space to heal, grow, and reconnect with your authentic self. I use a trauma-informed, client-centered, and experiential approach rooted in cultural humility and deep respect for each person’s lived experience.

Whether you’re navigating leadership stress, identity transitions, trauma recovery, or neurodivergent challenges—I meet you where you are. I work with adults and adolescents of all genders who are ready to move beyond survival and into intentional, meaningful living.

Working with me means partnering with someone who listens deeply, challenges gently, and honors every part of your story.

Calendar and cup of coffee and journal

Education & Training

  • Master of Social Work – Hunter College, Silberman School of Social Work
  • Licensed Master Social Worker, New York
  • Bachelor and Master of Science, Health Sciences – Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus
  • Mental Health First Aid, National Council for Mental Wellbeing
  • Sanctuary Model Trainer

Get Started

If you resonate with what we offer, contact us in our Valley Stream office. We’ll chat about your needs, and work towards transforming your life and creating a brighter future.