Christy Nyakana

Hello and welcome to BetterHelp! My name is Christy Nyakana and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who works with young people and adults who find themselves struggling with their emotions, relationships, or life experiences. In the 20 years that I have been practicing as a therapist, I’ve learned that life is tough and doesn’t always go as we had hoped or planned. I firmly believe that the most important things many people are missing in their life are kindness, compassion, and empathy. For that reason, I am committed to providing therapy that is always positively focused and that encourages self-acceptance while you work to become the best version of yourself. Throughout the course of my career, I’ve worked with a variety of people and issues in many different settings. This has helped me develop a non-judgemental, casual and personal approach to therapy. My start in social services began as a volunteer in schools and hospitals when I was 15 years old. My love for educating and helping people find their way has only gotten stronger since then. In 1997, I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology/Criminology from the University of Utah. Following graduation, I worked for several years as a court advocate for victims of violent crime. In 2001, I began my Master of Social Work degree with a focus on clinical mental health at the University of Pittsburgh. During my graduate work, I had the opportunity to intern at Magee Women’s Hospital outpatient clinic and Catholic Charities Roselia Center, which served pregnant teen mothers and their children. In these two roles, I discovered a passion for women’s social, emotional, and mental health issues. After graduating with my MSW in 2003, I have been incredibly fortunate to work in a variety of positions that include inpatient social work in psychiatric hospitals, in-home family therapy services, doctor’s offices, military installations and, of course, by providing individual psychotherapy in community and private practices. Through these experiences, I have met the most amazing and resilient people! I am certified in providing MARI (Mandala Assessment Research Instrument) assessments, am certified to provide clinical supervision and hold a certification in bariatric counseling. I am currently working toward my AABC (American Association of Bariatric Counselors) certification. To date, I have completed more than 300 hours of post-graduate continuing education, and am an active member of the Society for Military Psychology and the OAC (Obesity Action Coalition). I am an active Give An Hour Provider and have completed all levels of the Star Behavioral Health Providers training; both of which provide specialized services to active and veteran military service members and their families. My areas of expertise include: Military informed treatment PTSD Mood disorders/Depression Anxiety/Stress Women’s issues Grief and loss Caregiver fatigue Self-image and body dysmorphia Bariatric counseling—pre- and post-surgical In addition, I am a sex positive, LGBTQ+ and Kink informed therapist.