Therapy with Nicole
“We don't get wounded alone and we don't heal alone.” - Carl Jung
Your Path to Emotional Wellness Begins Here
Nicole specializes in working with Persian and first-generation individuals who feel caught between their cultural upbringing and their own identity.
You may feel guilt for wanting something different, struggle to set boundaries with your family, or feel like you’re living a life that doesn’t fully belong to you.
You may feel like you’re living between two worlds—deeply connected to your family and culture, yet quietly questioning the expectations placed on you. On the outside, you show up as responsible, capable, and put together. But internally, you might feel overwhelmed, conflicted, or disconnected from your own voice. You may find yourself asking, “What do I actually want?” while carrying guilt for even thinking about choosing a different path. It can feel like no matter what you do, you’re either letting yourself down or disappointing the people you love.
I work with Persian and first-generation individuals who feel this internal pull every day. You may struggle to set boundaries without guilt, feel responsible for your family’s emotions, or notice patterns of people-pleasing and self-sacrifice that are hard to break. Together, we create space to understand where these patterns come from, reconnect you with your sense of self, and help you build a life that feels aligned—without losing the parts of your identity and culture that matter most to you.
If this is you, I completely understand. Contact me at nikigabbaymft@gmail.com.
Navigating Mental wellness
The connection we form in therapy transcends the ordinary. I'm not merely your therapist; I'm walking alongside with you on your journey, delving deep into the profound and personal layers of your experiences. The goal isn't to foster dependency on therapy; instead, my aspiration is that, as you undergo growth and transformation, you'll re-discover and carry the inherent strength and courage that was always within you. I'm here to assist you in reaching that realization. Think of me not as someone you'll always need, but as someone whose presence you'll feel, empowering you long after our paths formally cross.
“What you seek is seeking you” -RUMI
My Treatment Approaches
Client-Centered Therapy
Client-centered therapy, developed by Carl Rogers, is an approach where the therapist provides a supportive and empathetic environment, allowing clients to explore and express their thoughts and feelings without judgment. The focus is on the client's self-discovery and personal growth, with the therapist serving as a facilitator rather than an authority figure.
Psychodynamic Theory
Inspired by Sigmund Freud, illuminates the influence of unconscious thoughts and childhood experiences on present behavior. This approach becomes a transformative journey, not just towards healing but also gaining profound insights into the intricacies of oneself. Together, we navigate the terrain of your psyche, transforming past shadows into catalysts for growth and empowerment.
Attachment-Based Therapy
Attachment-Based Therapy, developed by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth, focuses on the impact of early attachment experiences on emotional and relational well-being. It helps individuals understand and address patterns formed in early relationships, aiming to enhance secure and healthy connections in current relationships.
Nicole’s STORY
My life journey has been profoundly shaped by my cultural perspectives as a first-generation American, born to parents who immigrated from Iran after the revolution. Navigating intergenerational trauma and the challenges of being a troubled teen, I've gained a deep understanding of the delicate balance between cultural sensitivity and individual struggles, especially during the integration into American culture.
I specialize in helping individuals grappling with low self-esteem, navigating issues with their relationship to themselves and others. I understand that our connections with those around us shape our worldview, and through our therapeutic journey, we can foster a positive transformation in how we perceive ourselves and our relationships.
My unique background positions me to empathize with the nuanced experiences of culturally sensitive families. Acknowledging the profound impact of addiction and mental health issues on family dynamics, my commitment to offering compassionate support is deeply personal. I channel this dedication, fueled by the memory of a loved one lost to overdose due to addiction, and informed by my own journey as a recovered addict. It is this personal commitment that forms the heart of my practice, inviting those seeking understanding and empathy to embark on a journey of healing.