Nakia Murphy, M.A., Associate Marriage Family Therapy #150387

Nakia Murphy, M.A., Associate Marriage Family Therapy #150387

Supervised by Dr. Melissa Tihin, Psy. D., Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #86602, PMH-C
Serves in person and telehealth clients in Fresno | Serves telehealth clients in California|

“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.” — Maya Angelou.

Welcome! I’m Nakia, an Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Fresno, California. With my experience working with diverse populations, I am dedicated to helping individuals and families overcome life’s challenges. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy, providing culturally competent and empathetic care to each of my clients. My passion for mental health is reflected in my work with children, adolescents, adults, and underserved communities, including those within the LGBTQ population. Combining my professional expertise with personal experiences as a mother and spouse, I create a supportive, healing environment where clients can explore their emotions, foster resilience, and achieve personal growth.

My Approach & Values

Nakia, a Fresno native, earned her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from National University in 2024. She is a dedicated Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LPCC) practicing in her hometown of Fresno, California. With years of experience as a counselor, Nakia has worked extensively with children, adolescents, and adults, dedicating her career to helping individuals and families navigate various life challenges.

During her tenure at WestCare and Amity Foundations, Nakia gained valuable experience working with incarcerated individuals, economically disadvantaged communities, and underserved populations. This diverse exposure has provided her with deep insight into the complexities of human behavior and the systemic factors that influence mental health. She is passionate about delivering culturally competent care, always striving to meet the unique needs of each client with empathy and understanding.

Nakia’s educational background includes an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts from Fresno City College (2008), a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology/Victimology from California State University, Fresno (2011), and completion of all Drug and Alcohol courses at Fresno City College (2016). In 2017, she became a registered Drug and Alcohol Counselor with the California Association of DUI Treatment Programs (CADTP). Her academic and professional training informs her expertise in various therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Couples Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy. She believes in the innate capacity for growth and resilience in all individuals.

In her therapeutic practice, Nakia fosters a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. Through CBT, she helps clients recognize and reframe unhealthy thinking patterns that contribute to anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. Her work in Solution-Focused Therapy involves collaborating with clients to harness their strengths and create practical solutions for their immediate concerns. In Couples and Family Systems Therapy, she promotes open communication and understanding, guiding clients through the complexities of their relationships.

At Central Valley Family Therapy, Nakia continues her work with individuals across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, and adults. She is also deeply committed to serving the LGBTQ community, ensuring equitable, affirming, and inclusive therapeutic experiences for both individuals and their families.

As a mother of four and wife of 31 years, Nakia brings personal insight into the importance of healthy family dynamics and relationships. Her lived experiences enhance her ability to connect with clients, fostering trust and rapport. Nakia’s mission is to empower individuals and families to overcome challenges, improve emotional well-being, and build resilience. She is committed to guiding her clients on their journeys of self-discovery and growth, providing a compassionate and supportive space for healing and transformation.

Certifications and Specialized Training

    • Abuse and Neglect of Elders
    • HIPPA: For Behavioral Health Professionals
    • Substance Abuse and Addiction
    • Suicide Prevention
    • Partner/Intimate Violence
    • Psychiatric Medications in Behavioral Healthcare
    • Child Abuse
    • Relapse Prevention
    • Parenting
    • CPI
    • Crisis Intervention
    • Safeguarding information
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Crisis Intervention
    • Healthy Relationships

Professional Memberships

  • CAMFT- California Association of Marriage and Family Therapy

 

About Us

With locations all over Central and Northern California, our practice specializes in treating individuals, couples and families, and through years of experience, we are confident that no problem is too great to overcome.

Phone Number: (559) 691-6840

Email: contact@centralvalleyfamilytherapy.com

Office Hours

Fresno:
Monday- 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
Tuesday- 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
Wednesday- 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
Thursday- 8:00 am to 7:00 pm
Friday- 8:00 am to Noon