


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
Former Senior Policy Fellow, Voices for Georgia's Children
Member, American Psychological Association (APA)
Editorial Board, Behavioral Sleep Medicine
Former Chair, Grady Nia Project Community Advisory Board
Our Team
Breon Gaines, LPC
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor who has a passion for supporting children, adolescents, and young adults. We’ll work together to grow your self-acceptance, build upon inherent abilities, and quiet the negative thoughts that bring upon feelings of self-doubt. I draw from Psychodynamic, Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and narrative therapy—while also using play, humor, art, and the outdoors to support growth in meaningful ways. I strive for the therapeutic space to widen your view of yourself and create room for healing.
In therapy with children, I use Child-Centered Play Therapy to understand and connect with your child through play, as that is the language in which they communicate. The focus is on developing the inner “resources” of the child while using the therapeutic relationship as a tool for growth.
I work closely with parents and/or caregivers to provide resources and identify ways to be support your child within the environment they are embedded in. My main focus of experience has been with children who are “deeply feeling”, struggle with self-esteem, are Autistic, and have experienced major life events.
I am here to be with you—in a world that may at times feel harsh, noisy, too complicated, or not perfect enough. You are more than your symptoms and struggles. I see you as a whole person, full of strength, potential, and stories worth exploring. This space will be forgiving, expansive, and tailored just for you. It’s an honor to walk alongside you in your journey toward greater connection with yourself.
Education
Spelman College, Atlanta, GA
Bachelor of Art-Psychology, Atlanta, Ga
The George Washington University, Washington D.C
Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Clinical Training
Clinical Practicum
The George Washington University Counseling Center
Washington, DC
Clinical Internship
The Phillips Program
Annandale, Virginia