About Dr. Nicole Pucci
Clinical Expertise. School Insight. Thoughtful Partnership.
Dr. Nicole Pucci is a licensed clinical psychologist with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and nearly two decades of experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Her professional background uniquely bridges clinical practice and independent school administrative experience, allowing her to understand not only individual mental health, but the broader academic and developmental systems in which youth grow.
For ten years, she served as a full-time psychologist and school administrator at a local independent school, working with students in grades 9-12. In that role, she supported high achieving adolescents navigating anxiety, depression, executive functioning challenges, academic pressure, and life transitions. She collaborated closely with families, faculty and school leadership, developing a nuanced understanding of the emotional landscape in which adolescents grow.
In 2024, she founded her practice to provide focused therapy rooted in evidence-based treatment and proactive mental health skill-building.
Therapeutic Approach
Dr. Pucci’s work is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and developmentally informed parent collaboration.
Therapy is goal-oriented, aiming to help young people not only feel better, but also to function more effectively - emotionally, socially and academically.
Working with Parents
In her work with children and teens, Dr. Pucci views parents as essential partners in the process.
Meaningful change is most likely to occur when parents learn tools to respond differently to anxiety, emotional dysregulation or executive functioning challenges. Her parent coaching model emphasizes practical strategies, clarity around normal development, and confidence in setting appropriate boundaries.
Dr. Pucci has recently added structured parent strategy groups focused on early anxiety prevention and executive functioning foundations.
A Commitment to Youth Mental Health
In addition to clinical work, Dr. Pucci provides educational presentations and consultation for schools and community organizations. She has appeared on local news programs to discuss youth anxiety, academic pressure, and family mental health trends.
She is committed to elevating conversations around proactive mental health - helping families to build resilience when they notice early patterns.
Dr. Pucci serves on the board of State of Mind: Hudson and is a member of the American Psychological Association, Ohio Psychological Association, and the Cleveland Psychological Association.
Education & Training
She earned her undergraduate degree from the Research-Focused Honors Psychology Program at Purdue University. She went on to earn her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Case Western Reserve University.
She received extensive training during graduate school at the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals and MetroHealth Medical Center, where she specialized in the evaluation and treatment of youth with a wide range of presenting concerns and treatment goals. She also completed rotations at schools, community agencies and psychiatric care units during Case Western Reserve University’s six-year doctoral program. In addition, she taught an undergraduate seminar in Childhood Anxiety Disorders.
Dr. Pucci has deep training and experience in the field of child and adolescent psychology within Cleveland-based hospitals and schools. This gives her a unique perspective on enhancing the well-being of the whole child in order to help them thrive.
Personal
“My life’s work is centered on the belief that youth who understand their emotions, grow through challenges, and internalize a deep sense of self-worth become compassionate and confident adults who navigate the world with empathy, resilience, and purpose.
It is a privilege to work with young people and their families and to play a small but meaningful role in their journey. While therapy often begins during a challenging life season, I keep the broader perspective in mind, highlighting each individual's strengths and the qualities that foster long term self-worth.
As a clinical psychologist and mom of two, I understand that your child's health and well-being are your highest priorities. I welcome the opportunity to partner with you and your family.”