At Nichols & Associates, we specialize in finding customized solutions to your insurance needs that optimize your benefits. We look at each client's unique situation and work closely with you to find solutions that will work for you now as well as in the future. Our customer service-oriented approach has helped us to develop lasting relationships that don't end when we start your policy.
Our highly trained staff is ready to help you throughout the life cycle of your policies and will always do anything we can to support your questions and ongoing needs. Our team constantly stays up-to-date on insurance laws and trends so you can always depend on us to provide accurate and informed answers.
To learn more about our staff, browse the profiles below for each of our team members.
Mike Nichols
REBC, RHU, LUTCF
Terresa Philip
Matthew Sowell
Tricia Cotton Ressler
John Ruthven
Mike began his 30+ year journey within the insurance industry in 1986 working for a local Independent agency. In 1991, he opened Nichols & Associates of Bay County and has continued to provide prompt and thorough service for all of our clients. Mike holds designations from Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow (LUTCF) and Registered Health Underwriter(RHU), while continuing with his education training to best advise clients on health care needs.
Mike has always stayed active in the Insurance Industry and has served as a board member for many state and local insurance associations. Mike has been a board member of the Panama City Association Insurance Financial Advisors (PCAIFA) since 1986 and served as President of the organization in 1994. Additionally, Mike has been a board member for National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors of Florida (NAIFA) since 1984 and served as President of the organization in 2001.
Mike’s commitment to his community is shown through his involvement with the Boys & Girls Club of Bay County, Optimist Club, and Jaycees. Mike served as a board member for the Panama City Chamber of Commerce, and was elected the first chairman of the Small Business Institute, which provides continuing education training for small businesses. He has held a position on the Development Board for Florida State University Panama City Campus since 2002, and has participated as a member for the Panama City Police Pension.
Mike formerly served as a Panama City Commissioner (Ward 4) and responsible for being the past Chairman of the Bay County Transportation Planning Organization (TPO). He also serves as the Vice-Chairman of the Panama City Community Development Corporation (CDC). Mike’s dedication to Panama City is proven through his track record of contributing to the betterment of the city and its citizens.
A long-time resident of Bay County, Terresa joined Nichols & Associates in April 2001. She received her Insurance License in Health, Life & Variable Annuity. She has extensive knowledge of all insurances offered by Nichols & Associates and offers a wealth of experience. Terresa specializes in Medicare, Health, Dental Insurance and is a Certified Marketplace Expert. She is focused on serving Nichols & Associates clients with honesty and integrity and giving technical knowledge about our insurance products. With over 25 years of sales and customer services experience, Terresa is known for her exceptional professional service to all; individuals, groups, and business clients.
Matthew (Matt) attended Florida State University and Gulf Coast State College, is a long time native to Panama City, and joined our team at Nichols & Associates in 2014. Matt has a strong work ethic and a desire for knowledge. He specializes in Medicare, Disability, Health, Dental, Group Health, Life, and Vision Insurance.
He is a Certified Marketplace Expert and named a Top 30, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida agents. Matt is excellent at listening to his customers and with his vast knowledge of the health insurance industry, it allows him to focus on providing his customers with a tailored plan that can take an innovative approach to meet their insurance needs, budget, and goals.
Tricia has been an essential part of the Nichols & Associates team since 2013. Her extensive background in customer service shows as she provides excellent customer support for our clients. She assists employers with adding employees to their group plans. Her vast knowledge of industry helps her direct customers in the right direction and get the answers to the challenging questions, including billing. Tricia is our liaison between our agents and our customers. Her friendly smile and easy-going personality will make you feel welcomed the moment you walk into our office.
Tricia was born and raised in Panama City, is an avid University of Florida football fan. And if you visit our office during the month of October you are in for a real treat. Contact Tricia admin@bayinspc.com for any questions related to your insurance or scheduling an appointment to discuss your insurance needs or concerns.
John was born and raised in Panama City and graduated from Bay High School. He then attended and graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting. He’s an avid Auburn fan.
After college, John became the CFO of his best friend’s company and learned the ins and outs of the hospice industry. Years later, he opened and operated Oasis Healthcare in Alexander, LA and Birmingham, AL for over 13 years, before selling and returning to Panama City in 2016, to be closer to his roots, and family that are very dear to him.
John joined Nichols & Associates in 2018, his experience in the hospice industry, combined with his passion to help people, makes him a great agent. He specializes in individual health insurance, group plans, and Medicare. As soon as you meet John you will notice and feel his genuine caring and compassionate demeanor.