Nicole Gruszewski, LPCC-S counselor at Avenues of Counseling Akron Office
 

Nicole Gruszewski, MS, LPCC-S

 
 

My name is Nicole Gruszewski, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervisory Designation (LPCC-S). I have a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a variety of mental health and life concerns. I have particular expertise in anxiety and depression and also work with adults navigating ADHD, grief and loss, life transitions, chronic health concerns, OCD, social anxiety, and women's issues.

My approach to therapy is supportive, collaborative, and tailored to each client's individual needs. I have particular expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), helping clients understand how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected and develop healthier ways of coping with difficult emotions and situations. I also incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients develop practical skills for managing emotions, tolerating distress, improving relationships, and navigating challenging situations more effectively. I use mindfulness to help clients become more aware of their thoughts and emotions in the present moment without judgment, and Motivational Interviewing to help clients explore their own reasons and readiness for making meaningful changes. My person-centered approach means meeting clients where they are, recognizing their individual strengths and experiences, and creating a supportive space where they feel heard, understood, and actively involved in their own growth. 

I also have extensive experience providing counseling for children and teens, particularly those experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional or behavioral challenges, and difficult family or life changes. When working with children, I incorporate play therapy to provide developmentally appropriate ways to communicate and process emotions. I also have expertise in parenting strategies and enjoy helping parents better understand their child's emotional and behavioral needs and develop practical ways to support them at home.

In addition to working with a variety of mental health concerns, I have experience supporting clients through infertility, pregnancy loss and postpartum concerns, divorce, trauma and PTSD, phobias, self-harm, and LGBTQ+ concerns. My goal is to create a comfortable and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, develop useful coping skills, and feel more confident navigating life's challenges.

In my free time, I enjoy going on hikes with my family, knitting, watching my favorite shows while working on craft projects, reading and snuggling with my cat.


 
 

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