DKATI.

Nicole is a multifaceted professional—artist, social worker, and queer neurodivergent advocate. Passionate about creative self-expression, music, community development, social justice, playfulness, humor, travel, movement, animals, and the outdoors, Nicole brings a vibrant and holistic perspective to her work.

With over 6 years of experience working front-line with at-risk and street-entrenched children and youth, Nicole has supported individuals facing significant mental health challenges, substance use issues, and trauma. She believes in the resilience and potential of youth, viewing them as compassionate, curious, and perseverant. Nicole’s dedication extends to individuals of all ages, ensuring everyone feels heard, respected, and met where they are, regardless of their circumstances.

Nicole's professional journey includes diverse settings such as group homes, residential treatment centers, stabilization and detox programs, mental health day treatment programs, and inpatient units. She has also spent over 8 years supporting individuals through their substance use journeys with a harm reduction approach, maintaining a non-judgmental and collaborative stance.

Her commitment to inclusive therapeutic practices led her to introduce and create art therapy programs in various social service settings. Witnessing systemic hurdles within mental health care, Nicole is motivated to drive change. She is dedicated to creating approachable, collaborative, destigmatized, and holistic mental health care systems. Her experience in environments where Indigenous and marginalized youth are overrepresented fuels her passion for decolonized and culturally inclusive practices.

Nicole rejects a “one size fits all” model of therapeutic support, recognizing each person as the expert of their own life. She stands with her clients, advocating for their needs in a way that empowers and respects their unique experiences. She believes trauma should be understood as “what happened to you” rather than “what is wrong with you,” and is dedicated to providing a safe, compassionate, and patient space for individuals navigating their healing journeys. Through her work, Nicole strives to create environments where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to overcome life's challenges.