Anxiety and depression therapists and psychiatrists in Rockford, IL

My name is Nicole Washington, and while my full name is Catherine Nicole Washington, I’ve always gone by my middle name. (A fun fact: I didn’t even realize Catherine was my first name until kindergarten—I thought my mom was Catherine and my name was “Cole” because that’s what everyone called me!)

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling from Capella University, driven by a lifelong desire to help others—one that was deeply shaped by my own personal journey with mental health challenges. I believe healing is possible, not just because I’ve studied it, but because I’ve lived it.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including partial hospitalization programs, and I have experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults. My background also includes work with domestic violence survivors, DCFS-involved families, group therapy, and individuals navigating complex life transitions. Oh and I’m also a the spouse of a Veteran. Which gives me a unique perspective of the challenges that military family’s may encounter. These diverse experiences allow me to meet clients where they are—with compassion, understanding, and respect.

As a licensed clinical social worker, I've spent my career working alongside people

who've often felt unseen, underserved, or unsupported by the systems meant to help

them. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults in marginalized communities

navigating identity, mental health, relationships, and trauma. My approach is

grounded in genuine curiosity about who you are, not just what brings you in. You'll

find a space built on empathy and empowerment, where you can show up exactly as

you are. I'd love to connect.

I have 16 years of clinical experience, working with Children, adolescents, and adults. I provide individual, family, pre/post natal and couples counseling. I take a warm and inviting approach to ensure you feel comfortable as a client. I specialize in anxiety, depression, school concerns, family/ home concerns, friendship issues, ADHD, grief, narcissistic abuse, and autism. I also have 20 years of experience as a school social worker.

I believe people deserve to feel understood before they’re asked to change. My approach to therapy is direct and collaborative. I work primarily with men and couples who feel stuck in patterns of conflict, disconnection, defensiveness, or shutting down, and want to better understand themselves and the people they care about.