I know you may not want to hear it, but, I think you have hit the nail on the head. Unfortunately, when a transmission goes there is little warning other than your car failing to move. If your Nissan isn’t moving, then you will have to have it hooked into a service area so a tech can run a diagnostic.
One question for you, though, is when was the last time you had the transmission fluid checked? If your transmission fluid is way down, then, your Nissan won’t move. Transmission fluid is that important. It not only ensures that your transmission is lubricated, but it also helps to remove a lot of heat from the transmission case. Further, the transmission fluid is the item that sets up the current that drives transmission and moves your Nissan.
If you haven’t checked your transmission fluid in a bit then it may be something as quick as adding enough fluid back to the transmission so that you get to the full mark on the dipstick. Here’s some information on how to check your transmission fluid and replace it.
If you find your tranny’s fluid is very low then you have found the likely cause of your problem. If not, then you need that diagnostic I mentioned. It should give you a good place to start. However, the problem is that is may indicate more than one source of the problem, say the torque converter and the valve body. Or, it could indicate a problem with one of the shafts (input or output) or a problem with the clutches/bands. Now, if there is a problem in just one area then you have a chance to fix that part and move on. However, since it is likely there is more than one problem awaiting you, it might be best to think of the replacement transmission. I realize it is quite expensive at $3,400 or so, but, it is money well spent if you plan to keep driving your Nissan. Please let me know what happens.