Nicole Chaggaris recieved a dual degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from the University of New Hampshire. During her undergraduate work she recieved experience in social services through residential counseling at an adolescent group home and family work through the State of NH's Department of Children, Youth, and Families. Following her graduation from UNH Nicole moved to the Brookline, MA area and began as a case manager at Side By Side in 2007. After working at SBS for a couple years, Nicole realized that she wanted to gain the clinical knowledge to better assist those with mental health needs. Nicole enrolled part-time at Boston University's School of Social Work. During this time she completed internships at a women's homeless shelter and a juvenile court clinic. She gained experience advocating for homeless adults with dual diagnosis, navigating the mental health system to connect individuals for services, and counseling women with truama, substance abuse, and and other adversities. During her time at the court clinic, Nicole counseled teenage youth in the court system and ran various groups to educate youth on teen issues and reduce recidivism. She also conducted interviews and completed biopyschosocial assessments of youth to assist in making recommendations for treatment.
Nicole returned to SBS in the summer of 2011 as an interim case manager following her graduation from Boston University with a Master's in Social Work. Shorty after she accepted the position of Program Director and took on the responsibilities for overseeing the program as a whole. She is looking forward to being back at SBS and continuing to have a part in helping individuals realize their dreams.
