Nikia Gaines
East Hartford
Summary
Compassionate and dedicated counseling intern with a strong foundation in psychological theory and evidence-based interventions. Skilled in building rapport, fostering safe and supportive environments, and helping clients navigate emotional and behavioral challenges. Experienced in collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and committed to ongoing professional growth in the counseling field.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Mental Health Assistant
Connecticut Valley Hospital
09.2014 - Current
- Supervise and support a team of 5–12 Mental Health Assistants in delivering quality patient care
- Act as liaison between clinical and direct care staff to ensure coordinated treatment
- Facilitate safety interventions and manage client crises using therapeutic techniques
- Conduct behavioral observations, document client progress, and contribute to treatment planning
- Lead shift briefings and maintain structured, supportive environments
Clinical Intern / Psychotherapist
T.R.U.E. Self Counseling LLC
01.2024 - 06.2024
- Provided individual therapy to children, adolescents, and adults under supervision using CBT, DBT, and person-centered modalities
- Conducted intakes, developed treatment plans, and maintained accurate clinical documentation
- Participated in weekly supervision to strengthen assessment, diagnostic, and therapeutic skills
- Supported clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and family-related challenges
- Ensured HIPAA compliance and timely documentation in EHR (SimplePractice)
Mental Health Assistant
Connecticut Valley Hospital
06.2006 - 09.2014
- Ensured patient and staff safety during crisis and behavioral escalation situations
- Supported clients during therapeutic groups, activities, and transitions across units
- Applied de-escalation and limit-setting skills to promote client stability
- Documented observations, reported changes, and participated in treatment team discussions
- Assisted up to 17 clients daily in achieving therapeutic goals
Education
M.S. - Counseling & Human Services
Post University
Waterbury, CT01.2026
B.A. - Psychology
College of the Holy Cross
Worcester, MA01.2003
Skills
- Clinical Documentation & EHR (SimplePractice)
- Active Listening & Therapeutic Communication
- Multidisciplinary Team Collaboration
- Crisis Management & De-escalation
- Organization & Time Management
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
- Trauma-Informed & Person-Centered Approaches
- Adaptability & Emotional Intelligence
Timeline
Clinical Intern / Psychotherapist
T.R.U.E. Self Counseling LLC
01.2024 - 06.2024
Lead Mental Health Assistant
Connecticut Valley Hospital
09.2014 - Current
Mental Health Assistant
Connecticut Valley Hospital
06.2006 - 09.2014
B.A. - Psychology
College of the Holy Cross
M.S. - Counseling & Human Services
Post University
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