Paula Subadan

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am passionate about helping individuals thrive and I believe that everyone is capable of doing amazing things when given the right opportunities and environment to succeed. I have found joy in helping individuals become healthier versions of themselves. I have worked within specialized high acuity programs and within traditional outpatient settings, so no matter the setting or the level of care needed, I can be adaptable and dynamic enough to handle challenges with great empathy and understanding.

My approach

I am an adolescent and adult therapist. I believe in looking at an individual's whole health - their mind, body, and spirit, as they are interconnected, in order to create balance. I utilize a strengths-based approach to empower individuals while helping them to build their hope and resiliency. I have a lot of experience working with individuals struggling with mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, etc., individuals who have experienced trauma, and individuals struggling with navigating relationships or life transitions. My top modalities are Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. I also incorporate trauma-focused treatment and mindfulness.

My focus

I believe the therapeutic relationship is very important and a key aspect of a client’s success. To choose to commit to therapy is a decision that takes great strength, courage, and vulnerability but it is also so very rewarding. The ideal client is one who is willing to commit to this journey of whole health and healing by doing the work needed. As your therapist, I am willing to commit to helping you along this journal and to work just as hard for you as you are willing to work for yourself.

My communication style

My communication style is very open and empathetic. A significant part of building a therapeutic relationship is my ability to listen to clients and make them feel heard and understood. I am engaging, positive, warm, friendly, and attuned with my clients. I utilize reflective listening skills to ensure we are able to connect and to ensure I get to know clients personally. I believe the details matter and that it is a privilege to hear someone’s story.

My journey to mental healthcare

I come from a close family unit, and I am the oldest of two children, so I have always been accustomed to caring for others. Before even attending university, I knew I wanted to build a career focused on helping others. Along the way, I found social work and I have not looked back since. I have earned both my bachelor's and master’s degree in Clinical Social Work which allowed me to not only focus on my clinical skills but also it allowed me the opportunity to gain more understanding of people, and the differences amongst us that make us all unique, how the systems in which we were raised within affect us and how to identify the strengths within each of us. I have worked with various populations and within all levels of care and my background has truly given me the ability to empathize and understand people in a unique way and has continually ignited my passion for helping others.

My goals for you

I believe in meeting clients where they are in life and helping to guide them to where they need to be. This journey is about progress, not perfection and everyone is capable of change if they are willing to change. My goal is that each client is able to learn ways to better navigate challenges, cope with stressors, and become a healthier version of themselves over time.

My first session with you

During our first session, we will begin getting to know each other. I will ask several questions to gain insight into your background, challenges, and goals for treatment over time to ensure that we are both working towards the same goals. This is also your opportunity to get to know me and ask any questions to aid with building our therapeutic relationship.