Addiction therapists & psychiatrists in Bridgeport, CT

I am a therapist with over 10 years of experience working with youth who are dealing with trauma and depression. I've spent years working with children and families as a DCF worker, foster care therapist, outpatient therapist, and now school based therapist. If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, family issues, or any tough emotional struggle please reach out!

I believe that meaningful therapy begins with feeling safe, heard, and supported. My goal is to create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where individuals and families can explore challenges, build on their strengths, and move toward positive change.

I hold both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Social Work and have over five years of experience working directly with children and families. My professional background includes supporting children and caregivers through emotional, behavioral, and relational concerns, while collaborating with families to strengthen communication, coping skills, and overall well-being.

In addition to my work with children and families, I also have several years of experience supporting older adults, including assisting individuals and families with long-term care planning. This work has given me a deep appreciation for the emotional, practical, and relational challenges that can arise during later life transitions, caregiving roles, and decision-making processes.

I am passionate about supporting clients across the lifespan and helping individuals and families navigate change with greater clarity, resilience, and connection.

I’m a psychotherapist and coach with nearly two decades of experience working with teens, young adults, and families. Much of my work focuses on strengthening communication, rebuilding trust, and helping people navigate major life transitions, including adolescence, college, relationships, and career development.

Over the past several years, I’ve focused deeply on generational, religious, and family dynamics—especially the ways past experiences shape how we relate to ourselves and to the people closest to us. My goal is simple: to help people like each other as much as they love each other.

My approach is practical, direct, and collaborative. I integrate evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems, while also helping clients develop clear communication skills, emotional awareness, and confidence in who they are and how they want to live.

Clients who work with me can expect thoughtful conversations, honest feedback, and a focus on meaningful growth—not just symptom relief.

Starting therapy is a meaningful step towards understanding yourself and creating lasting change. Together well work to explore the challenges youre facing, and help you mover towards greater balance and fullfillment.

Emil Pauling has 16 years of experience treating adolescents, young adults, adults, and families with varied challenges. Emil takes a holistic, strength-based approach to empower clients to meet their goals. Emil also has 34 years of combined experience in teaching, crisis intervention, and facilitating therapeutic and music programs. Life has its challenges. Finding joy in exploring your interests like music and humor can create a nice balance.

I help women move through fear, self-doubt, and old patterns so they can step into clarity, confidence, and fulfillment — both personally and professionally. Many of my clients are navigating transitions like ending relationships, redefining careers, or growing businesses while trying to protect their mental health. Together, we focus on strengthening self-trust, setting boundaries, and creating a mindset that supports lasting change. As a therapist and mindset coach, I combine evidence-based tools with forward-focused coaching to help you move from awareness to action — and build the confidence to trust yourself again.