Today we’d like to introduce you to Nikki Stillo.
Hi Nikki, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always been fascinated by how people navigate life’s challenges and relationships. Early in my career, I worked as a case manager in Dallas at a non-profit supporting pregnant and parenting teens. That experience taught me a lot about resilience and the power of support during transitional times, while also opening my eyes to the emotional struggles so many people face. It made me want to learn more about healing trauma and providing meaningful care, especially for those who are most vulnerable.
I went on to pursue a PhD in Counseling Psychology at the University of North Texas, with an emphasis in Couples and Family Therapy, which I completed in 2014. My training took me to several universities both locally and across the country, including college counseling centers at the University of North Texas, University of Texas at Dallas, and Vanderbilt University. I eventually returned to the Dallas area to be closer to my family and future spouse, completing my post-doctoral training at Southern Methodist University’s Counseling Center. There, I spent several years working with students on issues ranging from anxiety and depression to relationship struggles, while also supervising psychologists in training. I later served as Clinical Director at a local group practice, focusing on providing care to the community and expanding opportunities for counseling and psychology students in training.
Today, I run a private practice in Addison, working with individuals and couples, and provide clinical supervision and consultation for students and other professionals. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and perinatal mental health. It feels meaningful to come full circle—working directly with many new mothers, the same population that first inspired my professional journey. What I love most about this work is witnessing those moments of healing and growth—when someone gains clarity, confidence, or hope. It’s incredibly rewarding and truly an honor to be part of that journey.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road has definitely not always been smooth. My work requires a tremendous amount of emotional investment and openness. The world we live in today can feel heavy, dark, and even scary at times, and that weight can show up in the space we hold with clients. I’ve learned that doing this work well requires intentional self-care and a strong support network.
That’s part of why I’m so passionate about supporting other helpers and healers—therapists, physicians, parents, and students—who are navigating their own challenges while caring for others. On a personal level, becoming a mom has been one of the hardest—and most rewarding!—experiences of my life. It has tested me in ways I never expected, challenged me to grow, and shown me the depth of patience, empathy, and love we are capable of.
While the path hasn’t always been easy, these experiences have given me insight, connection, and a deeper sense of humanness in my work. I believe it’s important to be seen as human—not perfect, not having it all figured out—because it models that growth, resilience, and joy can exist even in the messy moments of life. Showing up authentically helps create trust and reminds both myself and my clients that it’s okay to navigate challenges without having everything under control all the time.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My practice specializes in supporting individuals and couples through perinatal mental health challenges, trauma, relationship transitions, and mood and anxiety concerns. I have a particular interest in working with young professionals, fellow helpers and healers, and couples navigating the many transitions of parenthood.
What sets my practice apart is the depth of specialized training I bring to this work. I am a certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional (PMH-C) through Postpartum Support International, trained in EMDR therapy with additional expertise in perinatal and infant mental health, and have completed Gottman Levels 1 and 2, which I regularly integrate into my work with couples. This combination of training allows me to tailor evidence-based approaches to meet each client’s unique needs.
I offer both in-person and telehealth services, with the added flexibility of an active Authorization to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) through the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT), allowing me to provide telehealth care to clients in 43 states. I am proud to offer a practice that prioritizes accessibility, specialized expertise, and a compassionate, human-centered approach.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I want readers to know that life is full of messy, challenging moments, and nobody has it all perfectly together all the time. It’s in navigating these moments that we discover resilience, insight, and growth. Seeking support isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of courage and a commitment to yourself. My hope is that everyone feels empowered to embrace imperfection, find connection, and recognize their own capacity to heal and thrive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nikkistillophd.com/
Image Credits
Brittnie Renee Photography
