Nicole Stefano, CSWA, CADC-R

Nicole is a Clinical Social Work Associate on track to earn her Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential in May 2025. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Science with a concentration in Diversity Studies and a Master’s in Social Work, both from Portland State University.

Before transitioning into the mental health field, Nicole developed valuable experience as a paralegal, Head Start Teacher Family Advocate, and Family Access Network Advocate with Bend-La Pine Schools. Over the past four years, she has worked as an outpatient mental health therapist, beginning her career in community mental health. Nicole also holds a school social work license and has extensive experience providing school-based support and care coordination, especially for individuals with neurodiversities.

Nicole works with children, adults, families, and couples from diverse backgrounds, offering a wide range of therapeutic services. Her approach integrates evidence-based modalities, including Attachment-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Structural Family Therapy. She emphasizes a person-centered, strengths-based approach that prioritizes trust, compassion, and empathy in the therapeutic relationship.

Nicole is passionate about helping clients navigate personal challenges and work toward their goals. She believes in the transformative power of unconditional positive regard and a genuine connection in fostering meaningful change and growth.