Dawn Nickel

Dr. Dawn Nickel is a respected leader in the women’s recovery movement and the founder of SHE RECOVERS® Foundation, a nonprofit that inspires hope and reduces stigma for women in or seeking recovery from substance use, mental health challenges, and other life issues. With a PhD in healthcare policy, Dawn has spent over three decades working in mental health, addiction, and trauma-informed care. In recovery since 1987 from substance use disorder, domestic violence, and later workaholism, anxiety, and cancer, she brings both lived and professional experience to her work. Dawn is also a Certified Professional Recovery Coach and a passionate advocate for individualized, holistic recovery paths. She is frequently called upon to share her expertise and experience in recovery with diverse audiences—offering insight, humor, compassion, and practical tools for healing and growth.