Nikkita Drake LCSW, CADC (She/Her) Nikkita is a compassionate and insightful clinician within The Canvas of Life Counseling's integrative healing collective, committed to guiding clients with empathy and strength as they navigate their unique paths toward healing and self-discovery.
Nikkita Drake is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor in the State of Maine. She earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Maine, specializing in clinical practice. Nikkita is committed to advancing her expertise and will begin her Doctor of Social Work program at the University of New England in the Fall of 2025. Throughout her career, Nikkita has gained diverse experience working with children and families, including roles as a BHH Children’s Case Manager at the Center of Excellence in Autism and Developmental Disorders, a Section 28 Behavioral Health Practitioner supporting children in their homes and communities, and as a Special Education Assistant Teacher for young children at Andwell (formerly Sandcastle). Nikkita serves as part of the clinical team at The Canvas of Life Counseling and provides a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel free to explore their authentic selves, discover their strengths, and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. Outside of her professional life, Nikkita enjoys singing, playing video games, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Nikkita's Counseling Philosophy
Nikkita's counseling philosophy centers on creating a warm, safe, and affirming environment where every individual feels valued and understood. She brings a compassionate, client-centered approach to counseling, integrating evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) alongside strength-based strategies. She believes that healing and growth begin with a trusting therapeutic relationship grounded in respect, empathy, and authenticity. She uses these evidence-based techniques to empower clients to better understand their thoughts and emotions, build self-confidence, and develop practical skills to navigate stress and daily life challenges. She views clients as the experts of their own lives and works collaboratively to support their self-awareness, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills. Her approach is holistic, focusing not only on symptom reduction but also on building real-world skills that empower clients to manage emotions and everyday challenges. Nikkita is passionate about fostering client autonomy and confidence by meeting clients where they are and tailoring treatment to their individual needs and goals.