Paula Carino, M.A., LMHC
Psychotherapist
Trauma, neglect, abuse, invalidating environments, societal and parental conditioning---no one escapes early life without some warping. At the same time, our true nature---our creativity and inner resources---are always accessible. How do we cross that seemingly huge divide between suffering and wellness?
The best psychotherapy is a working partnership that honors our innate healing abilities. Within the context of a caring and respectful relationship, therapy can create opportunities to resolve past pain, balance emotions, and experience the spontaneous joy and energetic flow we were born with.
Using a present-moment mindful awareness of the body, together client and therapist can soothe and regulate an overactive nervous system, address distortions of self and identity, and build resources and resilience to face life's challenges. In these challenges we can begin to recognize opportunities for growth, and for making choices from a higher awareness. We can move beyond cognitive insights toward practices that transform.
There are many ways to heal, and psychotherapy isn't for everyone. If you think it may be for you, consider booking a 15-minute consultation (no charge) or reading more at the FAQ.
F.A.Q.
Q. What is a typical session like?
A. While there is no typical session, I combine elements of traditional talk therapy with body-centered and Gestalt approaches, Ericksonian hypnosis, and Compassion-Focused Therapy. Our work together will be informed by yogic/advaita vedanta philosophy, somatic therapy, and interpersonal neurobiology. We follow the energy of the moment, with the goal of enhancing awareness of behavioral patterns that no longer serve, and increasing wholeness, resilience, and integration. I am committed to social justice and an anti-colonialist world view.
Q. Do you accept insurance?
A. Yes, I am a Cigna and Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield provider. If you have another insurance carrier, you can contact them about out-of-network benefits. If you do not have insurance, I offer a sliding scale for those experiencing financial hardship.
Q. How long will this take?
A. Sessions are ideally 45 minutes, but I also offer 30-minute sessions at a lower rate.
Q. No, I mean how long will it take to fix me?
A. There's nothing to fix--you are whole and well already, and doing the best you can. But getting to a place where you can recognize that, and address your unfinished business, may be an adventure measured in depth, not duration.
Q. What kinds of problems do you work with?
A. Anxiety, panic, depression, PTSD, sexual abuse, grief, OCD, self-esteem issues, career dissatisfaction, phobias, creative and spiritual issues, garden variety neuroses, activist burnout, political fatigue, diagnoses of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, and the after-effects of growing up with one of more family members with mental health issues or addictions. I work primarily with adults, but can refer you to a good child or family therapist if you're seeking one.
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Q. What is your background?
A. See bio
Bio
I am a New York State Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in good standing. I also hold licenses in New Jersey & Florida. I have done formal post-graduate training in Gestalt Therapy, as well as continuing education in somatic practices such as Hakomi, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, AEDP, Somatic Experiencing, Integral Somatic Psychology, clinical EFT, Havening, and Ericksonian Hypnosis. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), as well as a certified yoga/meditation instructor, trauma-informed yoga instructor, Nonviolent Communication peer leader, and hypnotherapist. I teach self-help techniques like meditation and EFT tapping for clients to use between sessions.
I have worked in community mental health settings, as well as in private practice. I am also a writer and musician.
