- CBT techniques
- Solution-focused steps
- Client-centered listening
About Nicole
Nicole Kough is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) practicing in Illinois with 15 years of experience. She began her counseling work in 2009 and completed further study at Lindenwood University in 2014. Her practice focuses on common concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship strain, and family matters.
Nicole uses straightforward therapeutic methods rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. She helps people identify thought patterns that get in the way and then develops practical steps to change those patterns. Conversations are direct and focused on immediate problems and clear next steps.
She also draws on Client-Centered and Narrative approaches when helpful. That means the conversation centers on the client's perspective and the stories they tell about themselves. Reframing those stories can reduce shame and guilt and open up new choices in relationships and daily life.
Nicole works with people dealing with blended family issues, communication problems, divorce and separation, and relationship challenges. She addresses intimacy-related concerns, anger, and panic symptoms with concrete strategies and short-term goal planning. The aim is to reduce distress and improve coping.
Her style is practical and nonjudgmental. Sessions look at what is getting in the way now and what can be tried next. For someone adjusting to a stephousehold or managing co-parenting stress, she offers clear tools and action-focused conversations.
How her approaches translate to online sessions
Nicole commonly blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy in session. CBT looks at the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and uses short exercises to test and change unhelpful thinking. Solution-Focused Therapy concentrates on small, practical steps and measurable goals to create change more quickly.She also uses Client-Centered and Narrative ideas when they fit. Client-Centered work means the conversation follows the client's concerns and priorities. Narrative work helps people reframe the stories they tell about themselves, which can reduce guilt, shame, or stuck patterns. Together these approaches give room for both problem-solving and revising personal narratives.
Finding the right mix of approaches is collaborative. She will talk with each person about goals and preferences and adjust methods as needed. For online sessions, confirm the current session options before booking since formats are not listed here. Online work can make it easier to schedule sessions around daily life, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and reduce travel time. Therapists and licensed professionals commonly use online sessions to fit therapy into a busy household, but confirm which formats are offered before you schedule.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
15+ years
Listed in
Illinois
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does she work with?
She works with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship strain, family problems, and related concerns such as anger and panic symptoms.
What is her therapy style like?
Nicole uses a practical, nonjudgmental approach that focuses on thinking patterns and clear steps to address problems.
How much clinical experience does she have?
She has worked in the field since 2009, giving her about 15 years of experience supporting clients with mood and relationship concerns.
What credentials and region apply to her practice?
She is an Illinois Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and practices in Illinois.
Which languages does she offer sessions in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Does she see international clients?
She does not accept international clients at this time.
How does payment and cost work?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with her?
Click the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is for adults and is not emergency care, mediation or legal advice. If you or a child are in danger, use the emergency numbers. Find someone else by name.