Hi! I’m Nikki Isbell. I grew up in Lake Tahoe, California, where the beauty of nature shaped my holistic view of health and sparked a lifelong love for the outdoors. Drawn to people and their stories, I initially moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. My path took a meaningful turn when I relocated to New York City and had the opportunity to work alongside Dana James, a Nutritionist and CBT Therapist. That experience, combined with my own transformative work in therapy, ignited a deep interest in psychology and inspired my decision to return to school.

I went on to graduate summa cum laude from New York University, where I designed an interdisciplinary major in Psychology and Narrative Writing, with a minor in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Studies. Most recently, I completed my Master’s in Clinical Psychology at Pepperdine University with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, also graduating summa cum laude. After graduating, I moved from Santa Monica back to Lake Tahoe, where I am now located in Truckee, CA. I am passionate about continuing to grow both personally and professionally in the field.

As an Associate Therapist (AMFT #157142, APCC#20214) at the non-profit Center for Mental Health Excellence, I provide compassionate support to individuals and couples. I work under the supervision of Dr. Veronica Viesca, PhD, LMFT #80308, and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor. I believe therapy is one of the most courageous steps a person can take and I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their stories and feel truly seen. Drawing from a range of therapeutic modalities, I collaborate with clients to help them move toward meaningful goals and lasting change.

Outside of the therapy room, I enjoy reading, cooking, yoga, running, skiing, and spending time in nature.