We had the good fortune of connecting with Lillian “Nikki” Hurley-Hines, MA, LPC, LMHC and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Lillian “Nikki”, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The thought process behind starting my business was deeply personal and transformative for me. At the age of 16, I had the privilege of working with an incredible therapist who positively altered the course of my life. Through our sessions, I realized that meaningful change was possible, even in the face of adversity. This experience ignited a passion within me to help others reshape their lives too.
From that moment, I was determined not only to become a therapist but also to carve my own path as an entrepreneur. I wanted to create a space where I could implement my vision and principles, empowering clients to overcome their challenges and achieve personal growth. Starting my own business was important because it allowed me the freedom and flexibility to run things my way. I wanted to design a practice that reflected my values, offered innovative approaches to therapy, and provided a supportive environment to each person I work with. The desire to build something impactful led me to establish my own practice, Resilient Roots Psychotherapy, PLLC, where I could fully dedicate myself to helping others while satisfying my entrepreneurial aspirations.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I pride myself on being a relatable therapist. I want clients to know that when we work together, they’re connecting with someone who understands what it’s like to be on the other side of the (virtual) couch as a client. I embrace many guiding philosophies as a therapist: I practice what I preach and never ask clients to do anything I wouldn’t do myself. Therapy should be a space where clients feel seen and heard, and I strive to create that environment with gratitude for their vulnerability, humor to ease the journey, and a stance free from shame and judgment. I’ve had the privilege of supporting people through their best and worst times and fully believe that each client is the expert in their own life. My role is to use my expertise to help clients create the change they desire, providing the support and encouragement they need to take those steps while meeting them where they are in their journey.
I recently introduced hypnotherapy into my practice, alongside cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and other trauma-informed approaches. I love exploring the unconscious mind and helping clients uncover the roots of their lifelong mental health challenges. Hypnotherapy is incredibly versatile, aiding in healing trauma/PTSD, boosting self-esteem, managing anxiety and depression, addressing inner child wounds like abandonment or rejection, and alleviating chronic pain. It’s rewarding to witness clients break through limiting beliefs and achieve their goals with a deeper understanding of themselves.
Since March 2020, I have worked remotely and connected with clients online to support their mental health goals. My clients appreciate the convenience and accessibility of telehealth, which helps those with busy schedules, illnesses, or transportation issues, including those struggling with finding childcare. They can attend sessions without the added burden of commuting.
Like many entrepreneurs, I have faced challenges along the way, from establishing my online presence to navigating the nuances of telehealth. I’ve navigated these hurdles by learning how to market myself and ensuring that my telehealth services provide the best experience possible. Networking with fellow therapists and staying engaged in the therapeutic community has also been invaluable.
Throughout it all, my goal has been to offer accessible, compassionate therapy. This commitment drives my work as a business owner and helps me build strong, trusting relationships with my clients. I want the world to know that my approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a deep dedication to helping others heal and thrive.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, I’d start by showing them around Longmont. We’d head out for brunch at The Passenger and sit outside with mimosas while we people-watch on Main Street. Then, we’d take a leisurely walk around McIntosh Lake to enjoy the beautiful lake and mountain views. For dinner, I’d take them to Jai Thai for some delicious Pad Kee Mao.
We’d spend a couple of days in Estes Park, enjoying the scenic and breathtaking drive up the mountains. We’d explore Lake Estes, drive by the historic Stanley Hotel, and hope to spot some elk or other wildlife along the way. A ride on the Mustang Mountain Coaster is a must for some fun, and we’d finish off with a couple of glasses of mead at Snowy Peaks Winery.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Jake, my therapist, was the catalyst for my journey into this profession. He taught me that no matter how stuck I felt, I had the power to become the person I wanted to be. His guidance and wisdom were instrumental in shaping my career and personal growth in therapy, and I’m thankful for the years he has been my trusted confidant.
I am also grateful for the unconditional love and support from my partner, friends, and family. Their encouragement and belief in my vision have motivated me to push forward, especially during times when I doubted myself. Without them, I would not have been able to pursue my dream of helping others transform their lives as a therapist in private practice.
Lastly, I want to acknowledge my appreciation for the collective contributions of the therapeutic community and the supervisors and mentors I’ve had along the way. Their insights and shared knowledge have inspired and guided my practice, helping me become a better therapist and business owner.
Website: www.resilientrootspsychotherapy.com
Instagram: @resilientrootspsychotherapy
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/resilientrootspsychotherapy
Image Credits
Lynette Marie Photography https://lynettegarber.wixsite.com/lovemephotography?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2TGJJeLIKjn8eWd-k5FvCDNlZFWfijdszz0hmmmxjQ9Yk3c2Uyuib-a8U_aem_5UYozrgWT5cZzSvZ8U7wtw