About
Dr. Nicole Bugella, Ph.D LMSW
LEAP- Lifelong Empowerment ABA & Psychotherapy provides clinical and behavioral services to the whole family using a hybrid approach.
Nicole Bugella
Licensed Master Social Worker
Hi! My name is Dr. Nicole Bugella. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker with a Ph.D in Social Work from the University of Alabama. I am passionate about working with clients to build a meaningful life worth living. I specialize in treating a range of eating disorders as well as Borderline Personality Disorder. I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help my clients develop skills for coping and managing through life’s challenges. In my doctoral research, I focused on the psychosocial experiences of individuals living with a visible difference. My hope is to work with clients on challenges associated with living with a visible difference, as well as bring awareness and understanding to the clinical field on effective treatment for this particular population.
Outside of work , I am a competitive gymnast through the National Association of Intercollegiate Gymnastics Clubs and a coach, and judge through USA Gymnastics. I enjoy working with athletes to improve performance and foster positive mental health.


