At just 30, Nicholas Makris has already made his mark on LGBTQ mental health care in South Florida. He joined SunServe in 2022 as an intern while completing his master’s in clinical psychology at Barry University. By 2024, he had become Associate Clinical Director, a role traditionally held by licensed clinicians with decades of experience.
Makris brings innovation and compassion to his work. He’s overhauled intake systems, built clinician resource hubs, and crafted custom referral guides tailored to real community needs. He also manages all adult mental health referrals and maintains a therapy caseload.
Outside SunServe, he co-leads online coaching programs for parents of LGBTQ youth and for newly graduated registered interns, helping them map out their post-grad plans. A classically trained pianist, ordained minister, and self-proclaimed “old Italian grandmother” on the inside, Makris finds joy in music, puzzles, kayaking, and quiet cups of tea.
“Just because someone has more experience, or just because someone has certain degrees or training, doesn't mean that they're a better clinician," Makris said. "It doesn't mean that they're going to be more efficient. Or just because someone doesn't have all that experience doesn't mean that they can't outperform someone who does."
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