Paula Buitrago, LMHC
Paula holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Barry University and has experience supporting individuals navigating mental health and substance use challenges. She believes that people are more than the patterns they struggle with and that understanding where those patterns come from can create space for meaningful change.
Paula's approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Narrative Therapy to help clients understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships. She encourages clients to approach themselves with curiosity rather than judgment, exploring the parts of themselves that may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain while building healthier ways of responding to life’s challenges.
Therapy with Paula is warm, collaborative, and honest. She recognizes that asking for help can feel vulnerable, especially when you have spent a long time trying to manage things on your own. She creates a space where clients can feel understood while also being gently challenged to consider new perspectives. Paula enjoys working with young adults and adults navigating transitions, relationship challenges, self-discovery, or feeling stuck. Her goal is to help clients gain clarity, reconnect with their strengths, and move toward a life that feels authentic and meaningful.
Education/Credentials:
- Barry University, Masters in Mental Health Counseling
- Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor #MH28283
Experienced in:
ADHD with adults, Anger/Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Perfectionism, Self-Esteem, Substance abuse
Clinical approaches:
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy
Style:
Assertive, Authentic, Direct, Empowering, Funny, Honest, Nonjudgmental, Nurturing