Nicole Knowlton

Main Areas of Focus

 

Neurodiverse Couples 

 

Nicole was in a long-term relationship where neurodiversity was present. Nicole understands and believes that it is vital to identify solid communication strategies between partners, using specific techniques for handling relationship troubles, whether perpetual or solvable. 

 

These techniques encourage the understanding that emotions are important, there is no absolute reality, only two subjective ones, acceptance is crucial, and a development of fondness and admiration within the relationship. Nicole encourages couples to celebrate the small steps towards a larger goal and helps keep focus on what the couple can do to set themselves up to thrive. 

 

Assessments

 

Nicole began conducting assessments in 2006 as a graduate assistant for the Chapman University MFT Program, under the advisement and oversight of Dr. Ron Scott, who managed the program’s psychological assessment curriculum and pioneered the first LGBTQ student and faculty group in Orange County and within the faith-based, highly conservative university. Nicole helped train her peers in the administration of assessments, administered them for the Chapman Community Clinic, Orange County Healthy Care Agency, Cliffside Malibu rehabilitation program, and has integrated the use of these various tools in the majority of her clinical work.

 

Nicole is uniquely able to help adult clients identify possible neurodivergence due to her own journey in finding out that she is on the spectrum and has ADHD. Nicole has found tremendous benefit in obtaining a formal diagnosis because it has enabled her to help gain a better understanding of herself, her history, family members, and in developing a more manageable life path forward to better succeed in life. Nicole offers coaching, resources and support during the assessment process and for clients looking to continue therapy services. Nicole specializes in providing long-term individual, couples and family therapy to neurodivergent individuals.