Paula earned a Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Social Work in 2003, following a 20 year career coaching women in health and wellness. Since then, she has worked as a medical and hospice social worker, a geriatric social worker, and, most recently, with active-duty military personnel in outpatient and inpatient military clinics. In that role, she supported both men and women experiencing depression, anxiety, chronic life stressors, insomnia, and trauma-related symptoms and distress. She retired from goverment service in early 2026. 

Paula is a returning therapist at Norther Virginia Older Adult Counseling and was one of the first therapists to work with OAC in 2016. She brings 23 years of clinical social work experience, and now works with adults who are navigating life transitions, grief and loss, health-related concerns, depression, and anxiety. 

“I believe the therapeutic relationship is central to effective therapy. Built on trust and collaboration, it helps individuals identify and work towards personal goals, while making positive changes in their lives.” 

As a therapist, Paula supports healthy emotional processing and promotes holistic mind-body practices. Her approach incorporates cognitive reframing, solution-focused therapy, and strength-based interventions..