About

Passion. Experience. Dedication.

 
 

 

At Youthrive, we believe every child, teen, and young adult deserves support that truly understands who they are. Our mission is to provide compassionate, evidence-based therapy that helps young people feel seen, heard, and empowered—especially those from communities that have too often been overlooked. We partner with families, schools, and community members to create a safe space for healing, growth, and lasting change. Whether you’re navigating big emotions, school stress, identity questions, or family challenges, we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

 

practice Owner

Dr. Nikia Scott

I’m a child and adolescent psychologist dedicated to helping young people and their families thrive. My approach blends cognitive-behavioral strategies with systems-based thinking, allowing me to see each child in the context of their relationships, environments, and experiences. I work closely with parents, educators, and healthcare providers to ensure that every client receives well-rounded, collaborative care.

I provide evidence-based treatment for a wide range of emotional and behavioral concerns, including depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Using practical, skills-based interventions, I help children and teens better understand their emotions, strengthen focus, and improve functioning at home and in school. In addition to this foundational work, I bring advanced training in trauma and behavioral sleep medicine. As a nationally certified provider of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), I support young clients in healing from abuse and traumatic experiences through structured, research-backed care. I also work with families to address sleep disturbances, helping improve both nighttime rest and daytime behavior.

In my work with college students, I focus on mood, anxiety, and adjustment concerns, using evidence-based interventions to build coping skills and confidence. Guided by a feministic lens, I emphasize empowerment, healthy boundaries, and self-esteem across all of my clinical work—especially for those navigating complex identities or life transitions. Above all, I strive to create a safe, affirming space where young people feel understood and supported as they grow.

Education

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY, Washington, DC
PhD, Clinical Psychology

NEW YORK UNIVERSITY, New York, NY
MA, Psychology

COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY, New York, NY
Postbaccalaureate, Psychology

HOWARD UNIVERSITY, Washington, DC
BS, Biology/Chemistry

Clinical Training

Predoctoral Internship
University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine
Mailman Center for Child Development

Postdoctoral Fellowship
Emory University School of Medicine
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

National Certifications

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

Professional Affiliations

Senior Policy Fellow, Voices for Georgia's Children
Member, American Psychological Association (APA)
Editorial Board, Behavioral Sleep Medicine
Chair, Grady Nia Project Community Advisory Board