Find a therapist in Duluth, MN — covered by insurance

For the past eighteen years, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals, children, and families across both clinical and K–12 educational settings. My professional journey has included roles as a Professional School Counselor, 504 Coordinator/Learning Specialist, and Clinical Therapist, giving me a unique understanding of how emotional, cognitive, and learning needs intersect.

Over time, my view of mental health has expanded. I’ve always been interested in nutrition, movement, sleep, and lifestyle as contributors to emotional wellness. But everything shifted when I began integrating mindfulness, contemplative practices, and a deeper exploration of hormone health—both personally and professionally. Understanding how hormones influence mood, stress, and cognition opened an entirely new dimension of care.

I now approach therapy through a whole-person lens that honors the connection between mind, body, hormones, and environment.

Alex sees a wide range of cases including but not limited to: Anxiety Disorders, Depression, PTSD, Bipolar 1 & 2 Disorders, and ADHD accompanied by behavioral and emotion dysregulation issues. The symptoms that his clients may experience include debilitating anxiety, depression, and relationship issues which client's might describe as tense or chaotic.

Alex McLeod holds an MSW, and LICSW and was a top graduate at Saint Catherine University Master’s program. He was featured in IMPAAKT Magazine’s cover story topping the list for most influential mental health leaders of 2024. He has a 13 year career working in human service including therapy-based shelter care, corrections work with felony level teens, probation, experience with the Minnesota Board of Public Defense, and outpatient individual therapy. Alex also teaches a university class on the correlations between anatomy and pathologically violent behaviors.

Couples who call me say they've drifted apart, feel more like roommates, and affection has stopped. Ineffective patterns of communication prevent them from reaching to each other. The magic in their relationship has died and the dance has ended. Individuals who call me say they are exhausted, discouraged, and dissatisfied with life. Old thoughts and behaviors continue to negatively impact who they are, what they want to accomplish, and their relationships. They too, have lost the meaning and magic of life. Healthy relationships, whether with yourself or others, are key to a happy, satisfying, life and keeping the magic going.

Get to Know Me

Hi, I’m Paula! I’m an LPCC who works with young children and their families, teens, young adults, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, family dynamics, self-esteem, and major life transitions. I take a relational, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive approach, with a focus on understanding the why behind what we’re experiencing—not just managing the symptoms. I also have a special interest in neurodiversity and enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals and families, approaching differences with curiosity, compassion, and a strengths-based perspective. I value honesty, curiosity, and creating a space where you can be yourself without having to have everything figured out. Therapy can be hard work, but I believe we can approach it with compassion, a little humor, and a “okay, this is where we are—now what can we do with it?” kind of energy.

I work with teens and adults who are struggling with feelings of sadness, worry, dread, helplessness or unease. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in old patterns, or simply realizing that something in your life needs to change. Together we can make sense of the bigger picture of your life and the experiences, relationships, and environments that have shaped you.

I’m a curious therapist, and I want to understand you as a whole person. Together, we’ll identify patterns, figure out what might help you feel better, and develop a deeper understanding of yourself. My goal is to help you create changes that feel meaningful and lasting.

I am a clinical licensed therapist with two years of experience with ADHD, Autism, and Trauma. I got my Master’s and social work from Simmons College and Bachelors of Psychology from University of MN Twin Cities. I specialize in working with kids 0-17 but also work closely with families! I am certified in Child Parent Psychotherapy and the Early Start Denver Model for kids with Autism and ADHD.

As a board certified and licensed clinical professional counselor, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to stability in life. Seeking help can be a hard initial step and I am glad you are here. I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background including trauma, crisis, depression, anxiety, grief and relationship problems.

Choosing a therapist is a personal decision, and I believe you deserve someone who will meet you with compassion, curiosity, and respect. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe to be yourself—without judgment—and where we can work together to better understand the challenges you're facing and the strengths you already possess.

I hold a master's degree in Addictions and Rehabilitation Counseling and am a license professional clinical counselor in the Minnesota. Before becoming a therapist, I earned my medical degree in Mexico, an experience that deepened my appreciation for the connection between emotional and physical well-being.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Certified Life Coach with 30 years of professional clinical experience. I have worked in both outpatient and inpatient programs developing and leading mental health programs. I have owned a private successful practice since 2010 that was initiated to help people thrive through life's challenges. I was drawn to this field by a deep interest in human behavior transformative impact of helping others thrive and navigate through challenges that created lasting positive change.

I specialize in a variety of treatment approaches serving men and women. Let me support you in navigating difficult transitions tailoring your treatment to meet your needs.

I know starting therapy can feel like a vulnerability, especially when you are carrying stress in your relationships, questioning yourself, or feeling stuck in patterns you want to change. My goal is to meet you exactly where you are and build a genuine, trusting relationship where you feel supported, understood, and encouraged to grow at a pace that feels right for you, without pressure, shame, or judgment. You do not have to sort through all of this on your own.