Nina Rivela (she/her) is pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Texas at Austin. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, International Relations, and Global Studies from the University of Texas at Austin. Nina’s clinical experience includes work at Helping Hand Home for Children, where she supported children and teens using TBRI (Trust-Based Relational Intervention). She helped clients learn emotional regulation skills and build healthy attachments. Nina previously interned at the UT Immigration Law clinic as a bilingual case manager/social work intern. Working in English and Spanish, she supported clients with histories of trauma and abuse, navigating complex legal situations, day-to-day needs, and safety issues. These experiences guide Nina’s focus on cultural humility, collaboration, healing attachment wounds, advocacy, and trauma-informed practice. She is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and judgment-free therapeutic space for clients.
Nina wants to help people feel genuinely seen throughout the therapeutic process. She is excited to be a part of the Austin DBT Associates team and to work collaboratively with clients as they process trauma, build emotional regulation skills, and improve their relationships through evidence-based care. Nina is also passionate about community healing, challenging systems of oppression, and sustainability.
In her free-time, Nina enjoys doodling, sewing, spending time with friends and family, watching movies, listening to podcasts, and running. Nina habla español e inglés.
