We were lucky to catch up with Nikki Torretta recently and have shared our conversation below.

Nikki, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you recount a story of an unexpected problem you’ve faced along the way?

One of the most unexpected and challenging problems I’ve faced as both a mental health therapist and a business owner has been navigating the complexities of working with insurance companies. It’s a constant balancing act, and one of the most stressful surprises I encountered early on was dealing with clawbacks.

For those unfamiliar, clawbacks happen when an insurance company, sometimes over a year after a claim is paid out, suddenly informs you that the client had other coverage. They then demand the money back, but the window to bill the other insurance has long since closed. This leaves you with an ethical dilemma: while you technically could bill the client, it doesn’t feel right to do so, especially since they likely assumed everything was resolved.

The first time this happened, I was shocked and overwhelmed. It felt like the rug had been pulled out from under me. You think a claim is settled, only to find out much later that you’re in the red. What made it even worse was the lack of responsiveness from the insurance companies. Getting in touch with the right person to resolve these issues can feel like shouting into the void. Long hold times, endless transfers, and unreturned calls are par for the course.

One particularly frustrating realization was learning that some insurance companies, especially in New York, still reimburse therapists at the same rates they did for years. When you combine that with rising operational costs, the stress of clawbacks, and the effort required to simply get answers, it’s easy to feel defeated.

To resolve these issues, I’ve had to create systems to better track claims and ensure that every possible detail about a client’s coverage is verified upfront. I’ve also sought guidance from other professionals and billing specialists to streamline processes and prevent similar situations. Most importantly, I’ve learned to advocate relentlessly, whether by escalating issues within the insurance company or joining collective efforts to push for fairer practices.

While these challenges have been stressful, they’ve taught me resilience, problem-solving, and the importance of building a strong support network. It’s not easy, but the reward of helping clients access care makes it all worth it.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’ve been a practicing mental health counselor for over seven years, working with individuals facing a wide range of challenges. My approach is deeply collaborative—I believe that every person is the expert on their own life, and I aim to empower my clients to take charge of their treatment at every step. I adapt my methods to each individual’s unique needs, integrating psychodynamic techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral elements, and a systemic perspective to provide personalized care.

My journey into this field was a bit unconventional. While bartending to put myself through undergrad, I discovered something unexpected—many patrons would confide in me, saying how easy I was to talk to and how much they valued our conversations. One even suggested I become a therapist. At first, I laughed it off, but as I reflected, I realized how much I genuinely enjoyed connecting with people and helping them navigate their struggles. That insight led me to pursue a career in mental health counseling, and I haven’t looked back since.

What sets me apart is my belief in the resilience and strength within every person. Life’s obstacles can be overwhelming, but with the right tools and support, I know they can become manageable. Together with my clients, I work to build their confidence, foster resilience, and help them create lasting, positive changes.

I’m most proud of the trust my clients place in me and the transformations I’ve witnessed in their lives. It’s incredibly rewarding to see someone step into their power, overcome challenges, and thrive. For anyone considering working with me, I want you to know that this is your journey, and I’m here to guide, support, and adapt to your needs. Your growth, healing, and well-being are my top priorities.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Several years ago, I found myself in the middle of a life-altering situation that tested every ounce of my strength. My ex-fiancé betrayed my trust in the worst way imaginable—he scammed me out of my business, my home, and all the money I had. It felt as though my entire world had crumbled overnight, leaving me with nothing but the determination to rebuild.

Starting over from nothing was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I had to dig deep within myself to find the strength to move forward. I leaned into my training as a mental health counselor and focused on taking things one step at a time. Slowly but surely, I rebuilt my life. I started a new private practice, purchased a new home, and reclaimed my financial stability. Most importantly, I created a life that brings me joy and fulfillment in every aspect.

This experience, as painful as it was, taught me so much about resilience. It showed me how strong I truly am and reminded me of the importance of self-trust and perseverance. It also shaped the way I connect with my clients—I can relate to their struggles on a deeper level and share firsthand that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, there is always a way to rebuild and thrive.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

Managing a team and maintaining high morale begins with fostering a culture of respect, transparency, and genuine connection. As a mental health counselor and business owner, I’ve learned that when people feel valued, heard, and supported, they are more motivated and engaged in their work.

One of the key pieces of advice I would offer is to prioritize clear and open communication. Make it a point to regularly check in with your team—not just about work tasks but also about how they’re feeling and what they need to succeed. Creating an environment where team members feel safe to express concerns or ideas builds trust and strengthens relationships.

Another essential aspect is recognizing and celebrating achievements, both big and small. Acknowledging hard work and expressing gratitude can go a long way in boosting morale. It’s also important to provide opportunities for growth and development, empowering your team to take on challenges and reach their full potential.

Lastly, as a leader, it’s crucial to model balance and self-care. High morale starts with a healthy team culture, and that includes encouraging breaks, respecting boundaries, and supporting wellness. When your team sees that you prioritize their well-being and your own, it sets a tone that fosters positivity and resilience.

By leading with empathy, maintaining open communication, and celebrating successes, you can create a thriving, motivated team where everyone feels valued and inspired to contribute their best.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.elitetherapeuticservices.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-torretta-ms-lmhc-ncc-5a1b285a/

Image Credits

N/A