MEET Nic

nic ahumada, lpc associate

(they/she)

Associate Therapist

Supervised by Ilyse Kennedy, LMFT-S, LPC-S

I believe that bringing my whole self into the room helps create meaningful, authentic connections central to healing and transformation. In my work with clients, I approach therapy as a collaborative partnership built on mutual respect, empathy, and the shared goal of growth; we're here changing together.

Schedule a free consult with nic

welcome

Hello, my name is Nic (they/she). As a therapist, I’m dedicated to crafting a space where authenticity, connection, and mutual growth are at the forefront of our relationship together. With a personal background shaped by my first/third generation Mexican-American indigenous roots, and queer identity, I’ve experienced navigating both individual and relational complexities within the context of systemic challenges that are constantly evolving. As someone who is also neurodivergent (ADHD), I constantly work to bring a perspective to therapy that acknowledges how our selves, experiences, and societal structures intertwine to shape our identities, relationships, and our mental health.

My journey to becoming a therapist was shaped by experiences with both individual and relational therapy of my own. Through this journey, it's become increasingly clear how the systems in place often fall short in helping teach us—and generations before us—how to build healthy, productive relationships. I believe that bringing my whole self into the room helps create meaningful, authentic connections central to healing and transformation. In my work with clients, I approach therapy as a collaborative partnership built on mutual respect, empathy, and the shared goal of growth; we're here changing together.

background & experience

As the first in my family, I obtained my undergraduate degree in psychology while in Hawai’i, and completed graduate studies for counseling at Texas State University. I’ve also been fortunate enough to have spent the better part of the last decade working in the mental health field, starting my work with high-needs kids and young adults with autism and other mental health-focused cases within the Hawai’i school system. My experience spans across various settings including educational and clinical environments, and mental health research. The research I’ve been a part of centers around depression and suicidality and has fortunately included scientific journal publication. Work in this area has deepened my commitment to advancing knowledge and awareness in the mental health field. I’ve also gained much more awareness in witnessing how the repeating patterns of familial and systemic trauma affect our mental health over time. I also completed my graduate internship through a non-profit therapy site where I continue to give my services, working most often with individuals in marginalized communities. This is a population I’m extremely passionate about offering accessible services to and I continue to gain invaluable experience from it.

how i work

My therapeutic approach is grounded in a relational-cultural framework, which emphasizes the importance of connection in our development and healing. My approach is non-hierarchical, meaning we are in this together—not as a therapist offering answers, but as people engaging in a shared process of exploration, discovery, and growth.

I also work from an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and anti-capitalist lens, understanding that true healing requires addressing the broader social forces that impact mental health. I believe that empowering clients to explore their identity and challenge harmful societal norms is central to building resilience, well-being, and community.

who i work with

I have a deep passion for working with families and relationships, helping individuals, couples, and families navigate the complexities of their connections. Together, we explore emotions, generational family patterns, relational dynamics, and the impact of larger systems on your individual and collective well-being.

I’m particularly eager to work with queer identities, ethical non-monogamy, as well as sex, intimacy, BDSM and kink, working from a sex-positive lens to destigmatize sexuality and lessen shame and guilt. I’m also passionate about providing care for those facing intense or complex challenges, with stigmatizing diagnoses or trauma. I understand that these experiences can feel isolating, and I strive to create a therapeutic space where everyone feels safe, understood, and empowered to work toward healing. I approach this work with deep respect for the resilience and strength it takes to seek support in the first place.

outside the therapy room

In my personal time, I pour myself into creative outlets that keep me grounded and inspired. Whether I’m sculpting, creating urban art pieces, experimenting in the kitchen, enjoying music, or getting lost in a project, creating is how I reconnect with myself and the world around me. I also have a deep love for being on two wheels. Whether spending hours on my motorcycle or dusting off my bicycle, riding gives me a chance to disconnect from the noise of daily life and connect with the present moment. And finally, I value spending time with the people who matter most in my life—my friends, family, and chosen relationships. Sharing laughter, connection, and meaningful moments with them reminds me of the importance of continuing to build my community and embrace belonging.

These passions fuel my sense of balance, curiosity, and joy, and they remind me of the beauty in growth, exploration, and embracing the unexpected—values I strive to always bring into my work as a therapist.

Areas of Expertise & Interest