Nia Cook

My Story

My life has been centered around helping and creating change. Growing up is a complex process of discovery, and I’ve always gravitated toward the children and teens who—like me—feel they don’t quite fit the standard mold. I became a therapist to help people realize that being "different" is a profound strength, and to provide a space where they can stop asking "what’s wrong with me?" and start exploring who they truly want to be. I believe therapy is a place to "un-become" the labels assigned by others and safely explore every part of the self.

I hold a Master of Social Work from Western Carolina University and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA). When I meet with a client, I show up as a real person. I am here to connect with and champion my clients as they navigate the highs and lows of adolescence, helping them find their voice and forge a life worth living.

A major focus of my work is emotional regulation—helping clients find that powerful connection between the body and the mind so they feel in control of their own "weather." I specialize in supporting those navigating anxiety, self-esteem challenges, and difficult family dynamics. By blending evidence-based tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) with the practical skills of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), I help clients manage life transitions with confidence. To meet younger clients where they are, I also incorporate Play Therapy techniques, using creativity and movement to make the healing process feel natural and engaging.

When I’m not working, my focus is on expressing myself creatively and connecting to nature. I spend much of my time painting, creating large-scale sculptures and exploring the outdoors. I find that creating something with my hands helps maintain my own inner peace, and I hope to help my clients cultivate that same sense of peace and self-expression as we work together.

I specialize in:

• Emotional Regulation: Mastering distress tolerance and coping skills.

• Self-Esteem & Identity

• Family Issues: Navigating complex relationships and communication.

• Life Transitions: Support during school changes, family shifts, or moving into adulthood.

• Anxiety & Mood Management: Practical tools for managing intrusive thoughts and stress.

• Creative Healing: Using art and movement to process emotions.