Paula A Matthews

LMHC, 6 years of experience
Authentic
Warm
Direct
VirtualAvailable

I have extensive experience working with Latino and American adults, children, teens, and families, supporting them through challenges such as anger management, anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting stress, PTSD, and trauma. My approach is strengths‑based and evidence‑based, integrating CBT, trauma‑focused CBT, DBT, and solution‑focused therapy to help clients heal, grow, and reconnect with their sense of resilience. My path into this field began when I married my husband, who served in the military. Witnessing the emotional impact of multiple deployments inspired me to understand trauma more deeply and learn how to support him—and others—through their healing. This experience shaped my passion for working with military members, veterans, and their families, as well as anyone seeking a healthier, more grounded, and fulfilling life.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

Your first session with me is a space to slow down, feel heard, and begin making sense of what you’ve been carrying. We’ll talk about what brings you to therapy, what you hope to change, and what you need to feel supported. I’ll ask questions to understand your history, strengths, and goals, but there is no pressure to share more than you’re ready for. My priority is to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can be yourself. Together, we’ll begin building a plan that fits your needs, your pace, and your vision for healing.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

Clients often describe me as genuine, compassionate, and easy to connect with. I don’t believe in a one‑size‑fits‑all approach—trauma and emotional pain look different for everyone, and so does the path to healing. What sets my work apart is: • A warm, culturally sensitive, bilingual‑friendly approach • The ability to integrate multiple evidence‑based modalities • A strong focus on empowerment and collaboration • Respect for each client’s pace, values, and lived experience • A therapeutic style that is structured yet flexible I show up authentically so clients feel safe, supported, and understood.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

I work best with clients who are ready to explore their emotions, challenge old patterns, and move toward a more fulfilling life. This includes: • Adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or major life transitions • Teens and young adults seeking support with identity, stress, or emotional regulation • Parents wanting guidance and healthier family dynamics • Individuals healing from childhood trauma or relationship wounds • Military members, veterans, and their families • Clients who value a collaborative, strengths‑based, culturally aware approach If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin, you’re in the right place. We’ll take it step by step. I am committed to lifelong learning and regularly pursue training in trauma‑informed care, CBT, DBT, and integrative approaches. Expanding my therapeutic toolbox allows me to better support each client’s unique needs and provide the most effective care possible.

SpecialtiesTop specialties
Other specialties
I identify as
Serves ages
Licensed in
Accepts
Location
Virtual
My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I like to start with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with each client during our first session. However, after exploring a bit of what has brought the client to our therapy session, I may then use a different but appropriate therapy to see progress with the client. What is most important is what works for the client and what they feel comfortable with.

Adlerian

I like to build rapport with the individual first and assure them the space is safe so they can explore some of their childhood experiences that may be manifesting in their current behaviors. The goal is for the individual to see the behaviors and together we can look at the goals they can set for themselves.

, 23 ratings

4 ratings with written reviews

October 19, 2025

Paula is the best. She challenges your thoughts and really gets down to the roots of your problem in an authentic way.

Verified client, age 25-34
Review shared after session 3 with Paula

June 20, 2025

She has a soft and happy demeanor. She created a safe space to share my thoughts!

Verified client, age 25-34
Review shared after session 1 with Paula

March 30, 2025

I love feedback from a counselor at each visit. She is awesome.

Verified client, age 55-64
Review shared after session 5 with Paula