Nicole Garcia

My name is Nicole Garcia LCSW-C aka Sunshine!

Giving some background about my experience and diverse learning atmospheres may give some insights to how I approach treatment and therapy in general. For the past six years I have been a Trauma focused therapist who has worked with ages three and up. I have had the ability to work with high school students, women, men, single parents, caregivers, LGBTQIA+ individuals, families, and couples.

During my bachelor's level internship, I was afforded the opportunity to work with Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens in Richmond, Virginia. Here I researched and applied the many benefits of nature in healing and created/developed a therapeutic horticulture program. This program was trauma informed, celebrated diversity, and was created to be applied across the life span. Not only did I learn how nature can help us heal, but it is also here to teach us if we are willing to listen. Through my approach, I use nature as a way to teach mindfulness and coping skills in everyday life. Sometimes healing happens on the trail, not just in a therapy office.

I do have an understanding of different relationship styles such as Ethical-non-monogamy and polyamory. I am a kink-affirming therapist and have a vast understanding of kink and the community surrounding it. I have a vast understanding of LGBTQIA+ communities and of the challenges that come with trying to understand the terms, sort through personal feelings, self-acceptance, and “coming out” to family/friends.

Therapy is an invitation, not just to get to know yourself but to deeply understand yourself and why we do the things we do. My approach is person centered and focused on meeting my clients where they are right now in their lives.

First sessions are where I get the chance to understand what brings you to therapy. We typically set goals for treatment and come up with a plan on where you the client want to focus. I will be here as a guide and able to help set these manageable sort and long-term goals.