Nikki Mckenzie

My name is Nikki McKenzie, and I am a mental health professional with a background in in trauma, anxiety, and relationship concerns. I work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and understand how life experiences, culture, and identity shape mental health.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Hawaiʻi and a Master’s degree in Counseling from Wayland Baptist University.

As a U.S. Army combat veteran, I bring both professional training and personal understanding to my work with clients. My experiences in the military shaped my passion for supporting veterans, service members, and families who are navigating the complex emotional challenges that can follow trauma, transition, and major life stressors.

My style is warm, direct, and strengths-based. I do not believe in “fixing” people — I believe in helping people reconnect with their own resilience and inner wisdom.

I strive to create a therapeutic space that is safe, nonjudgmental, and grounded in trust. I understand that reaching out for support can be difficult, and I respect the courage it takes to begin therapy.

Because of my professional training and lived experience, I have a particular sensitivity to the experiences of veterans, women in male-dominated environments, and families coping with trauma or major life stress. However, I welcome clients from all backgrounds and walks of life.

My goal is to support you in finding clarity, building resilience, and strengthening the relationships and values that matter most in your life.

I believe therapy should be a collaborative and supportive process where clients feel respected, heard, and empowered. My approach is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I draw from several therapeutic approaches depending on each client’s needs, including cognitive-behavioral strategies, person-centered therapy, and trauma-informed care.

Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, I work with clients to understand their experiences, strengths, and goals. Together, we identify patterns that may be contributing to distress and develop practical tools to help clients move toward healing, stability, and personal growth.

My work often focuses on:

• Trauma and post-traumatic stress

• Veteran and military family issues

• Anxiety and stress management

• Relationship and family challenges

• Life transitions and identity development

The first session is primarily about getting to know each other and building a foundation for our work together. During this time, we will discuss what brings you to therapy, any concerns you may have, and what you hope to gain from the counseling process.

I will also review confidentiality, answer questions about how therapy works, and talk about possible treatment goals. There is no pressure to share everything right away—the pace of therapy is guided by your comfort level.

Many clients find that the first session helps them feel relieved, understood, and more hopeful about moving forward.