Niki Bahri, MA | Therapist

Niki Bahri is a therapist at Spectrum Psych LA, dedicated to working with autistic individuals and their families since 2014. She holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Loma Linda University.

Niki offers a comprehensive approach to therapy that aims to enhance communication, social skills, adaptive functioning, and emotional well-being. She has specialized training in addressing anxiety, behavioral challenges, and emotional difficulties, as well as expertise in behavioral health interventions for sleep-related issues. Her approach integrates components of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), alongside parent management training to empower families in effectively supporting their children’s development. 

Prior to her doctoral studies, Niki completed Post-baccalaureate training at UCLA, where she focused on working with autistic individuals through the PEERS® program and under the guidance of Dr. Catherine Lord, a leading expert in autism diagnostic tools. As a certified PEERS® provider, she delivers evidence-based social skills training for adolescents. Additionally, her experience as an in-home therapist utilizing DIR (Developmental, Individual-differences, and Relationship-based model)/Floortime methodology involved coaching and guiding both autistic children and their parents on social-emotional milestones, allowing her to tailor interventions to each client’s unique needs.

An LA native, Niki enjoys exploring the city’s vibrant cultural scene and spending time at the beach. She loves discovering new places and activities in her hometown, and spending time with her family and friends. 

Niki is a Registered Psychological Assistant under the supervision of Dr. Deanna Dow.

Education and Training:

Master of Arts in Psychology at Loma Linda University 

Post-baccalaureate training at UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Lord Lab and UCLA PEERS® Clinic

Bachelor of Science in Psychology, California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo

Registration #PSB94028479, California; Supervised by Dr. Deanna Dow