Nicole Calvino

My name is Nicole Calvino, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm empathetic and view the world as a series of unique interactions and experiences. I am supportive and kind; my dry humor is famous.

My approach

My approach is client-centered and strengths-based. I pull from multiple theories and approaches to develop a unique set of interventions, tailored to the person I'm working with. Some of the common theoretical models I utilize in therapy are trauma-informed/focused (such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Seeking Safety). I also incorporate elements from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.

My focus

I typically work with people who are experiencing challenges with self-esteem and self-efficacy, shame, and anxiety. I also work with adults and teens who have a history of trauma, particularly around social forces such as discrimination and isolation. Additionally, I work with people who feel they have an unhealthy/unhelpful relationship with certain behaviors/choices and want to create habits that stick.

My communication style

My communication style is warm, gentle, and direct. If ok with you, I may try to bring a little bit of humor where appropriate. I will try to call your attention to the discrepancy between your goals and your behaviors and will shoulder you through the process of figuring out how to remove obstacles. You should feel that I hold you in unconditional positive regard and that I am not judging you for the reasons why we are talking today.

My journey to mental healthcare

There have been patterns I have noticed in my own life that have resulted in therapist-like behaviors far before I ever became one. In no particular order: 1) A woman crying in the bathroom? Ask if she's ok. 2) Noticing when loud people get quiet, or when quiet people get loud. 3) Friends reaching out if they haven't in a while= what's the ask? At my core, I've discovered an instinct to reach out when people feel alone, unseen, or unheard. I became a therapist because I wanted to make sure that what I felt I should be doing was actually helping.

My goals for you

I really enjoy utilizing experiential exercises to reveal your underlying strengths and capabilities. That way, I can use those as a foundation to help you figure out what you really want, and how I can help you get there.

My first session with you

Honestly? It might be a little boring or uncomfortable, but I promise you we'll work through it. It's a bit of a first-session thing. Deciding to talk to a therapist is a great step, but that doesn't get rid of the fact that you're going to talk about things you might never have given voice to with a perfect stranger. I will have a conversation with you to figure out what problem you are currently struggling with, how long it has been troubling you, and what your desired outcome is. We'll see if we're a good fit- and if it's not, I'll try to support you in figuring out what works better.