Obsessive-compulsive disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Hartford, CT

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.

Experienced clinician focused on helping clients navigate life's stages and changes. Offering empathy, insight and empowerment through counseling. Graduate of Fordham University's School of Social Work. Together, we'll fine-tune your ability to manage the emotional challenges that adults often experience in mid to late-life.

I understand that the decision to seek help for mental health needs can be a nerve-racking and scary process. When it comes to patient care, I am most passionate about the preservation of dignity and making my patients feel seen. I meet fear or nervousness with acceptance, encouragement, and knowledge.

I have extensive experience working with complex trauma, attachment issues, family, and spiritually and religiously-based trauma.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker credentialed in both New York and Connecticut. I earned my Master of Social Work from Fordham University in 2001 and have dedicated my career to helping clients overcome obstacles. I also hold a post-graduate certificates in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). By skillfully blending psychodynamic and behavioral techniques, I provide a dynamic and customized approach to healing and growth.

Currently accepting new clients. Are you seeking a natural path to healing and vitality in your life? It's my passion to help you live your one wild and precious life to its fullest. I help clients remember who they are, how to find their power and learn how to bring it as a gift to the world. Through the process of personal exploration, healing in nature and building healthy relationships, I can help you experience more vitality, purpose and meaning in your life.

I specialize in working with individuals who feel stuck in unhealthy or confusing relationship patterns, including those recovering from narcissistic abuse or navigating attachment wounds. Together, we focus on building self-trust, strengthening boundaries, and creating more secure, fulfilling connections.

I also enjoy working with teens and young adults who are navigating important life transitions, whether that’s adjusting to college, exploring identity, managing anxiety, or figuring out friendships and dating. This stage of life can feel overwhelming, and therapy can offer a space to better understand yourself and build confidence in who you are becoming.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with training in adult outpatient psychiatry and telehealth. My background includes psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adults with anxiety, depression, mood-related concerns, ADHD, trauma-related symptoms, sleep difficulties, and stress or burnout. I take a supportive, collaborative approach focused on clear communication and shared decision-making. Evening appointments are available.

No single approach fits all clients; I tailor my approach to each client, making it relevant to the specific problem they are facing. The best way to understand your current issues is to examine how your past influences who you are today. I also emphasize understanding your emotions and past patterns to ensure a better understanding of yourself. I strive to provide a gentle and warm experience, ensuring you are comfortable within the therapy setting and process these hard feelings through a genuine relationship. I also ensure that you understand the process of our work together so you can feel informed and empowered.