Cathleen Nicholson
Cathleen Nicholson is a dedicated Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor at Mo State Vocational Rehabilitation, where she has been helping clients achieve their employment goals for over a decade. With a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University at Buffalo, Cathleen combines her academic expertise with practical experience to guide individuals through career challenges, workplace accommodations, and skill development. Her work emphasizes empowering clients to overcome barriers and achieve meaningful, sustainable employment.
Throughout her career, Cathleen has continued to expand her professional knowledge, completing certifications such as “Preventing Harassment in the Workplace” and courses on building relationships while working remotely. She is deeply committed to fostering inclusive workplace environments and reducing obstacles such as ageism, demonstrating her dedication not only to her clients but to broader workforce equity initiatives.
Outside of her professional role, Cathleen is known for her strong communication and customer service skills, which she applies to create trusting and supportive relationships with those she serves. Her thoughtful approach and long-standing commitment to vocational rehabilitation reflect a career built on compassion, expertise, and a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
• Certified Rehabilitation Counselor
• Building Relationships While Working from Home
• Preventing Harassment in the Workplace (2018)
• University at Buffalo- M.S.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to over 30 years of experience in the rehabilitation field, working with individuals in schools, nursing homes, private homes, and those with brain injuries or vision loss. I’m most proud of helping people reduce substance abuse and seeing them thrive in the jobs I helped them attain.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering this field to work toward breaking stigmas, stay focused, and always work hard.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are perseverance, education, and dedication, as I balanced being a single mom while earning my BA and completing my Master’s in Rehabilitation.