Meet Nichole
Compassionate therapy and end-of-life support rooted in connection, dignity, and care.
Hello, I’m Nichole Regel Ruffatto, LCSW, therapist, end-of-life doula, and founder of Sunset Journey Therapeutic Services.
As a fourth-generation Montanan, I have a deep appreciation for community, connection, and the ways we support one another through life’s most meaningful and difficult moments. My work is centered around helping individuals and families navigate grief, aging, caregiving, life transitions, and end-of-life experiences with compassion and understanding.
I believe every stage of life deserves thoughtful care, honest conversation, and support that honors each person’s unique experiences, values, and goals.
My Approach
Life does not always follow the path we expect.
Loss, illness, caregiving, changes in health, aging, and major life transitions can leave us feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or alone. My role is not to tell you what your journey should look like, but to walk alongside you, provide support, and create a safe space for reflection, healing, and meaningful conversations.
My approach is person-centered, compassionate, and collaborative. I believe in meeting people where they are and recognizing that every individual and family experiences change, grief, and transition differently.
Whether we are working together through therapy or end-of-life doula support, my goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered.
Areas of Focus
My work includes support for:
Grief and bereavement
Anticipatory grief
Aging and life transitions
Older adult mental health
Caregiver support
Loss of independence
Serious illness and major diagnoses
Family transitions
End-of-life planning and support
Emotional support for individuals and families
Professional Background
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience supporting individuals and families through a wide range of life experiences and transitions.
My work combines professional training with a deeply human approach that values listening, curiosity, compassion, and dignity.
In addition to providing therapy, I am trained as an end-of-life doula, offering non-medical support, education, advocacy, and companionship for individuals and families preparing for and experiencing the end of life.
I believe these two roles complement one another by helping people navigate both the emotional and practical aspects of life’s most significant transitions.
A Letter to My Community
Why This Work Matters to Me
To My Neighbors,
If you are visiting this site, you may be going through a very challenging time. My name is Nichole, and I hope our paths will cross, in the event you need or want care. My life's journey has led me to support others through some of life's most difficult times. I am here for you.
As a therapist and death doula, I have a unique set of skills. My approach is grounded in my background as a social justice worker, where I prioritize guiding clients through the complex and confusing systems we all must navigate in healthcare; addressing difficult inward and outward emotions; and facilitating the meaning-making process, which is essential during times of pain. I am also a bridge to other professionals in our community with gifts to share.
Living in a healthy community takes work, solidarity, and love. Healthy communities are built by ensuring each individual's needs are met and that our neighbors are available to both receive and show support.
Here if you need me.
Let's Begin with a Conversation
If you have questions about therapy, grief counseling, or end-of-life doula services, I invite you to reach out.
You do not need to know exactly what you need before making contact. Sometimes the first step is simply having a conversation.