About Me...
My name is Marissa Nickel and I am licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) for the state of Idaho. I have lived in the Boise-area all of my life, and have a special appreciation for and fondness of the Treasure Valley and its people. I have 20 years experience working within the human-service sector, and have now been active in the counseling community for 15 years. Additionally, I am an adjunct faculty at Boise State University and I teach clinically-relevant courses for the School of Social Work.
My preferred areas of practice and treatment specialization include: parenting; LGBT issues; interpersonal relationships; depression; anxiety; mood management; trauma/abuse; family dynamics; adjustment/transition; and grief/loss. I have experience working with clients of all ages, abilities, and diagnoses as well as individuals, couples, and families. Blending both conventional and alternative approaches, I draw on mindfulness practice in combination with cognitive-behavioral, family systems, and solution-focused therapy techniques to incorporate what will be most helpful and beneficial to each individual client. My focus is on the development of a strong therapeutic alliance, as I believe that by fostering a trusting, safe relationship between client and therapist, personal growth is achieved and emotional awareness is obtained. I am strongly invested in empowering clients, and I do so by way of providing validation, emotional support, empathy, and education. I actively participate in advocacy related to the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, and I am an ally who provides affirming care.
Please visit my profile on Psychology Today for more detailed information on my philosophy of care and my treatment specialties.