School of Social Work

Nicole O-Pries is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Virginia with substantive experience in clinical work with people who have experienced trauma. O-Pries has nearly 20 years of nonprofit experience, much of which has focused on developing effective trauma-focused services for youth and families. She is a certified practitioner in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and level 1 eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy.

O-Pries is currently an associate professor at Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Social Work, where she teaches courses focused on trauma-informed and trauma-focused social work practice, clinical practice and social justice. Her service work includes active membership in the Greater Richmond Trauma-Informed Community Network, as well as advising local nonprofits regarding integration of trauma-informed Care principles.

Outside of her role at VCU, O-Pries maintains a group telemental health practice for LGBTQ+ adults. She also provides consultations and training for human service professionals, advocates and educators about topics related to trauma-informed care, compassion fatigue and telemental health practice.

Areas of expertise

• Mental Health
• Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
• Social Work Practice
• Technology in Social Work Practice
• Telemental Health
• Trauma-Focused Mental Health
• Trauma-Informed Care

Education and credentials

M.S.W., Virginia Commonwealth University
B.A., State University of New York at Binghamton
A.A., State University of New York at Cobleskill