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Nikki Ford(She/Her/Hers)

(She/Her/Hers)
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, LICSW
Washington DCGeorgiaMarylandVirginia
Anxiety - Depression- Life transitions- Stress management-Substance abuse- Trauma-

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AboutSpecialtiesLocationsInsurance & Fees

Professional statement

Nikki Ford is a highly experienced therapist located in the Dupont neighborhood of Washington, DC, providing compassionate care to individuals seeking support for a wide range of mental health concerns. Recognizing the essential nature of individualized care, she tailors therapeutic interventions to address the unique needs of each client.

Nikki's approach to therapy is integrative, drawing from several evidence-based modalities including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic, and mindfulness-based techniques. Through open and honest communication, Nikki helps clients explore and gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, values, and behaviors, while also equipping them with practical tools to make positive changes in their lives.

She strongly believes in the power of self-compassion, curiosity, and laughter as tools for resilience, healing and growth. Nikki creates a warm and non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their emotions, learn self-acceptance, and embrace their unique journeys towards a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

With more than 20 years of experience in the field, she has successfully worked with clients dealing with a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, substance misuse/addiction, relationship difficulties, and life changes. Nikki earned a Master of Social Work from the University of Georgia, and a Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Maryland. She completed her undergraduate studies at Emory University in Atlanta, GA, double majoring in Psychology and Cultural Anthropology.

Whether you are seeking help for specific mental health concerns or simply want to enhance your overall well-being, Nikki is committed to providing a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment. With her highly collaborative approach, she recognizes that individuals are the experts of their own lives and fosters a therapeutic partnership based on trust, empathy, and mutual respect.


Message to clients

I want you to know that I understand how hard it can be to take the first step into therapy, and I am so glad you're here. Often the difficult thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that led you to consider therapy make the task of finding a therapist and scheduling your first appointment even more overwhelming.

I can't take that first step for you, but I can assure you of a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space to begin your journey of healing and growth. Therapy is one of the most amazing acts of self-compassion and it's really brave.

If you decide I may be a good fit in your therapy journey, we will work together to help you create meaningful and lasting changes in your life. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions that I may be able to answer or if you would like to schedule an initial consultation or first session. I look forward to hearing from you.


Work and Education

Years of Experience: 15 years

Grow Thrive Psychotherapy, Therapist/Owner
Benchmark Human Services, Regional Director, Crisis Services; Director of Development
UHS of Peachford Hospital, Director of Social Services; Director of Outpatient Services
UHS of SummitRidge Hospital, Director of Intake & Assessment Services
Georgia Department of Behavioral Health - Central State Hospital, Readmission Review Specialist; Social Worker - Complex Needs
Advantage Behavioral Health Systems, Social Worker/Case Manager
UHS of Peachford Hospital, Patient Advocate; Quality Manager/Assistant Risk Manager
Northeast Georgia Health Systems, Intake/Needs Assessment Specialist
UHS of Peachford Hospital, Mental Health Assistant

University of Maryland, Master of Public Health, 2021
The University of Georgia, Master of Social Work, 2009
Emory University, Bachelor of Psychology, 2000
Emory Univerisity, Bachelor of Cultural Anthropology, 2000

Licensure

Washington DC: LC50081449 - Maryland: 25681 - Virginia: 0904010042 - Georgia: CSW004885

Languages

English

Specialties

Anxiety - Coping with excessive worry, nervousness, or stress; intense discomfort in social settings (social anxiety); sudden and intense feelings of panic (panic disorder)

Depression - Providing support and promoting healing of hopelessness, low motivation and energy, sadness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and loss of interest and pleasure in life

Life transitions - Coping with difficult or impactful life changes, such as moving to a new area, relationship transitions, child rearing, or career changes; learning self-care to better manage resulting stress

Stress management - Strengthening effective ways of coping with the stress of life and change; managing expectations of self and others

Substance abuse - Reducing and preventing the negative impact of drug and alcohol use and addictions on physical, emotional, and relational health

Trauma - Coping and healing after threatening or scary events, such as witnessing accidents or experiencing sexual, verbal, emotional, or physical abuse




Clientele

  • Adults (24+)
  • Young adults (18-24)

Locations & Hours

I am in the office 9 am to 6 pm, Monday-Thursday, accepting new clients for in-person therapy in Washington, DC and telehealth session in DC, Maryland, and Virginia.


Insurance

Nikki Ford is not in-network with any insurances.

Read about the benefits of seeing an out-of-network provider here.


Out-of-pocket fees

  • Individual sessions:$200 (55min)
  • Initial session:$230 (60min)

Additional session information

Out-of-network billing options

This provider can support you in getting reimbursement from your insurance company if you are seeking out-of-network reimbursement. Here are the out-of-network billing options they provide:

  • Super billing
Payment options
  • Credit Card
  • Debit Card
Session frequency

Frequency of sessions this provider offers to see clients once you are an established client.

  • Weekly
  • Monthly
  • Every other week
  • Multiple times a week