We recently had the chance to connect with Nicole Scotto and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Nicole, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
Dancing. Dancing is such an ancient healing practice; and I love to lose myself in the rhythm.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Nicole, and I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC). I currently own a small psychotherapy practice, Balanced Life Therapy Group, with my mom, Maria, who is also an LMHC. We offer psychotherapy for individuals, families, children and couples. We combine wisdom from both of our generations to provide personalized services for each client; learning from one another along the way to extend our reach in the community.
I recently got certified in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and Preparation and Integration Therapy for individuals working with psychedelics and/or plant medicine for therapeutic purposes. I believe this is an important new role that is emerging in therapy as many people are choosing to work with these alternative methods of healing. I feel it is extremely important that in addition to medical supervision, individuals should choose to work alongside a therapist when embarking on those healing journeys. I aim to trailblaze this path by speaking out about the importance of being properly prepared and guided for these experiences as they can be intense for the psyche. In addition, integration of the experience is a key part of maintaining insights and emotions that lead to positive shifts in mindset and behavior.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My mother and my father, in very different ways. My father was always a business owner; so I grew up observing the business mindset he always held. My mother on the other hand, studied to become a therapist when I was a teenager. I can remember browsing her psychology textbooks for fun. I was always interested in psychology; and as the field of mental health was emerging- I watched my mom become a highly skilled therapist and wanted to follow in those footsteps. Using the business mindset instilled in me by my father, I convinced my mom to open a private practice with me. That being said, my mom taught and inspired me to be the therapist I am, and I used the inspiration my dad provided to apply the business mindset to my career as a psychotherapist.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes! About three years ago, I took the jump to work completely in my own private practice. Prior to that, I had worked full time as a school counselor while building my business and client base at the same time. As you can imagine, this involved many long days and late nights.
When I finally took the jump, it was very hard to adjust to not having the security of having a consistent paycheck and even PTO to use. This created a lot of uncertainty for me, and I almost caved and took my old job as a school counselor back. However, I chose to believe in myself and my dreams and hold the vision I had for myself. I am so glad I had the courage to do so! It was not easy!
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes! I feel extremely lucky to be able to be my authentic self in my work. Many people have to hide parts of themselves to be considered ‘professional’ in their work. For me, the passion for helping people feel seen, heard and understood is completely authentic. Working with psychedelics and plant medicines for healing is also something I am very passionate about, and I am extremely grateful that we are at a place in our world where I am able to speak about the healing power of these substances without fear or judgement. When I am working, I am actually my most authentic self. It allows me the space to be the caring, compassionate human that I am.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
Writing a book! I recently started writing a novel that will be based on my journey. It will tell a story of difficulties, despair, healing, transformation and joy. It will also tie all of that into how I found my path as a therapist and healer in the world. I feel my path was meant for me, and I hope to inspire others to follow their hearts and their passions knowing that the Universe rewards those brave enough to follow the call of their heart. I also hope to inspire others to be alchemists of their pain; turning it into compassion and love for the human experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://balancedlifetherapygroup.com/
- Instagram: @witchynicky_smilewoven
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-scotto/
- Other: Psychology Today:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/nicole-marie-scotto-aventura-fl/890877
