Meet Nikki Love
Nikki Love is an accomplished professional with 20 years of experience in healthcare. She is a dedicated wife and mother of two girls, aged 17 and 12, and a successful entrepreneur. Nikki holds a master's degree in clinical psychology with a concentration in Behavioral Health and is a certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor. She serves as a social worker supervisor for a foster care and adoption agency and works as a senior psychiatric evaluator for Dignity Health. In addition, Nikki owns and operates Captions of Love 360 Photo Booth, offering innovative photo experiences for parties and events. Beyond her career, Nikki enjoys wine tasting, hosting brunches as the Sacramento Ambassador for Brown Skin Brunchin', and creating cherished memories with her family through travel and exploration
Personal Milestones
Nikki Love pictured with her husband and two daughters
Where are you from?
Born in Buffalo, NY, and now resides in Stockton, Ca
What was your first job?
Daycare assistant
One thing most people don't know about you:
I completed one semester of a PhD program, then dropped out. Self-evaluation of life, finances, career goals, and time contributed to this decision, and I have no regrets.
What is your favorite book or podcast?
Therapy for Black Girls
What motivates you to pursue current and new passions?
I always want to set the tone for my girls that black women CAN, in fact, have it all.
What is your biggest accomplishment at this point in your life?
Maximizing my education by obtaining my Masters Degree while raising a family.
What is one thing you know now that you wish you knew at 18 years old?
Mental health is a real thing that you must nurture, cherish, and acknowledge.
Professional Milestones
Nikki Love and her husband offering photo Booth services at an event
Is what you do now what you always wanted to do as a child?
No, I always wanted to be a teacher or nurse.
What inspired you to go into your industry?
I have always loved the healthcare field; helping people overcome their mental health barriers gives me a sense of purpose. The child welfare industry also allows me to assist youth in overcoming trauma, parents in overcoming barriers to gaining custody back of their children, and educate foster parents on the need to be trauma-informed when caring for youth.
Describe in one word what it's like to be a woman of color in your industry.
Rewarding
Was there ever a time you faced challenges in your professional life? How did you overcome them?
Yes, I continued to allow myself to be myself and exude the confident black woman I am. I reminded myself that it is ok to correct, challenge, and voice my opinion. I often tell myself, "Do not dim your light, and do not downplay what you bring to the table."
What's next for you in your career?
Next up is growing our photo booth business, with employees and multiple photo booths for rent.
What advice would you give a young woman of color trying to enter or advance in your industry?
Advocate for yourself and gain as much knowledge as possible so you can be confident when speaking.
Who/what do you attribute your success to?
My husband, family, close-knit friend group, and my determination to be GREAT.
Are you involved in any organizations, associations, clubs, or groups?
Brown Skin Brunchin'
Mental Health First Aid Instructors
California Youth Association
Connect with Nikki
Facebook: Nikki Love
Instagram: @Mrslove35
TikTok: Mrslove35
Website: captionsoflove.com
