Meet the Team


Nicole Lozo, Licensed Professional Counselor, sitting outdoors with therapy dogs Scout and Dolly, memers of Texas Taproot Counseling in Austin, Texas.

Nicole Lozo

M.Ed., NCC, LPC, RPT™, SEP, CCST
Children | Teens | Individuals 18+

Nicole Lozo is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Registered Play Therapist (RPT), National Certified Counselor (NCC), Animal-Assisted Counselor, and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP). She earned both her Master’s degree in Educational Psychology and her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from the University of Texas at Austin. Nicole is also a graduate of the Texas State Animal-Assisted Counseling Academy.

With more than 26 years of experience as an educator and school counselor in Austin ISD, Nicole has worked with children, adolescents, and families across elementary, middle, and high school settings. This extensive experience provides her with a deep understanding of the academic, social, emotional, and developmental challenges that individuals and families face throughout different stages of life. In recognition of her dedication to students and families, Nicole was named one of three finalists for Austin ISD Counselor of the Year in 2021 and received the CREST Award (Counselors Reinforcing Excellence in Texas) from the Texas Counseling Association.

Nicole has extensive training and experience in trauma-informed care and enjoys working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She is a Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI®) Practitioner and a Certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator. She provides counseling for adults navigating life transitions, stress, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship concerns, and personal growth. She also enjoys supporting children, teens, and their families through emotional, behavioral, social, and developmental challenges.

Nicole approaches counseling from a strengths-based, solution-focused perspective, believing that every individual possesses unique strengths, resilience, and resources that can be utilized in the healing process. She integrates a variety of evidence-based and experiential approaches, including Somatic Experiencing®, EMDR, Play Therapy, Animal-Assisted Counseling, Sandtray Therapy, Expressive Arts, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Nicole views therapy as a collaborative partnership. She tailors each session to the unique needs, strengths, and goals of her clients, creating a supportive, compassionate, and empowering environment where healing, growth, and meaningful change can occur. Whether working with a child learning to express big emotions, a teen navigating life's challenges, or an adult seeking greater balance and well-being, Nicole strives to help clients feel understood, connected, and capable of moving forward with confidence.

Areas of Specialization:


ADHD
Anxiety
Behavior Issues
Coping Skills
Depression
Divorce
Grief

Modalities Utilized:

Parenting
Peer Relationships
School Issues
Self Esteem
Stress
Trauma/PTSD

Animal-Assisted Counseling
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
EMDR
Sandtray Therapy
Solution-Focused Therapy
Somatic Experiencing
Play Therapy

Scout

Therapy Dog
Children | Teens | Individuals 18+

Scout is a certified therapy dog and a Good Canine Citizen (CGC) through the American Kennel Club (AKC). He has a fun-loving personality, a gentle heart, and never meets a stranger. Scout loves showing off his tricks, giving his famous wave, and receiving all the pets and attention he can get.

Scout enjoys assisting his counseling partner, Nicole, during therapy sessions, where his friendly presence helps create a welcoming and supportive environment. This fall, Scout will also begin spending time at a local elementary school, where he is excited to connect with students and become a familiar furry friend on campus. When he's not working, Scout enjoys playing with his canine siblings, going on adventures, and settling in for cuddles with his family. .

Dolly

Therapy Dog
Children | Teens | Individuals 18+

Dolly is a certified therapy dog, a registered member of Pet Partners, and has earned her Good Canine Citizen (CGC) designation through the American Kennel Club (AKC). With her gentle spirit, sweet temperament, and calm presence, Dolly has a special way of helping people feel safe, seen, and accepted. She loves making new friends and is always happy to offer a comforting presence, whether that means sitting quietly nearby or leaning in for extra affection.

Dolly enjoys partnering with her counseling companion, Nicole, during therapy sessions, where her nurturing nature helps create a warm and welcoming environment. This fall, Dolly will also begin spending time at a local elementary school, supporting students and staff as they navigate the ups and downs of daily life. Her calm demeanor and patient personality make her a wonderful companion for children and adults alike.

When she's not working, Dolly enjoys spending time with her canine siblings, exploring the outdoors, swimming, playing with her favorite toys, and relaxing with her family. Whether she's helping in the counseling office or enjoying time at home, Dolly brings comfort, connection, and a little extra joy wherever she goes.