Nicole Cope

M.Ed., Ed.S. LMHC

working to find meaning, build resiliency, and create a safe space for clients to explore and recover

I started my journey in the mental health field by working in community mental health as a volunteer group facilitator and sitting in on individual sessions with my mentor. I realized that working with clients as a therapist was the right path for me. I went back to college as an older student and pursued both my Bachelor's in Psychology and my Master's and Specialist degrees at the University of Florida.

I have been working in the mental health field since 2008 and have experience working as a therapist in residential treatment facilities, acute psychiatric hospitals, and community mental health centers. Most recently, I was the Chief Operating Officer of The Refuge, A Healing Place, a residential treatment facility for people who are working to recover from trauma, substance use, mood disorders, PTSD, and many other mental health symptoms. Although I loved that role, I was eager to get back into doing therapy with clients again- working to find meaning, build resiliency, and create a safe space for clients to explore and recover. I am thrilled to be a part of the exceptionally talented team of counselors at Arena Counseling and Wellness providing excellent mental health care in the Gainesville area.

Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT):

For individuals, couples, and families. This attachment-based, experiential therapy model is highly effective at helping clients, couples, and families deepen healthy connection, create attunement with themselves and others, and work through internal and interpersonal conflict.​

​Certified in EFIT (Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy)

EFIT Level 1 and 2

​EMDR

Level 1 and Level 2 trained 

• I utilize a combination of therapies based on the evolving needs of the client and the needs of the therapeutic moment.