Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Saint Paul, MN

Taking that initial step into therapy can be daunting. Sharing your story is a vulnerable position no doubt, and I am proud of you for even making the decision to seek help. Because I know how much courage this takes, I absolutely promise to honor you and walk alongside of you as you work towards your goals in counseling. In addition to helping individuals with anxiety and depression, I am certified in dialectical behavior therapy and practice accelerated resolution therapy. I also incorporate christian counseling, sand-tray therapy, mindfulness based-therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and incorporate narrative therapy techniques.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, struggling with focus, or experiencing anxiety, mood changes, or difficulty finding balance, you're not alone—and the right support can make a meaningful difference.

I am a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals improve their mental health and overall well-being. My clinical experience includes treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, sleep disorders, and eating disorders.

Because of my dual certification, I approach care with the understanding that mental and physical health are deeply interconnected. When both are addressed together, individuals are better able to achieve stability, resilience, and a greater sense of well-being.

My practice combines clinical expertise, careful observation, and evidence-based guidelines to create individualized treatment plans. I strive to provide thoughtful, personalized mental health care in an environment where patients feel heard, supported, and respected.

I have worked collectively for 31 years in public safety, crisis work, training and mental/chemical health. During my 16 years in law enforcement (LE) my experiences included being a Sergeant, SWAT Team Leader, Negotiator, Critical Incident Facilitator and Trainer. My experience in LE has led me to my passion in how trauma impacts our first responders. I have used my own experience as a first responder and woman in recovery, to transcend into my current role of a mental health and chemical health therapist working with not only first responders - police, fire, military, dispatchers, front line workers and corrections officers, but also any survivor, individual struggling with LGBT issues, addiction, relational struggles or trauma. I am able to be a conduit of change, sharing the journey with those who face the everyday stressful events, trauma or finding one's true identity. We are never alone. I am here to be a safe place and safe person to share and divide your pain. I am here to honor your experiences, share your success and build your resilience and healing.

I provide therapy for children, teens, adults, families, and groups, and I strive to create a space where clients feel genuinely seen, respected, and supported.

My clinical work focuses heavily on anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, ADHD, self-esteem concerns, and life transitions. I also work with individuals navigating grief, substance use concerns, emotional dysregulation, relationship difficulties, and trauma-related symptoms. I use a collaborative, client-centered approach and tailor treatment to each individual’s needs, goals, and strengths.

I have 6+ years of working with both individuals and couples. I work to create an atmosphere free of judgement while trying to be as direct as possible.

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.