Elena Paulino, LMSW

In a society that often tells us we are small and unworthy, I am passionate about helping people identify their strengths and reclaim their power. I believe patient-centered talk therapy is one of the best tools available to help us gain awareness of any repressed traumas, internalized negative beliefs and self-sabotaging behaviors. In our sessions together, my goal is to compassionately guide you through your journey of self-discovery and healing, helping you learn coping skills, accountability, boundaries, and self love.

I have been a therapist for 2 and a half years, and I use a solutions-focused, Jungian and psychodynamic approach in session. I will pull from a variety of modalities tailored to your needs and goals, with a focus on mindfulness and reframing negative thoughts. I also bring in tools such as journal prompts, grounding techniques and gratitude practice.

I teach and heal from the core of my blackness and womanhood, with a tender understanding of the trauma and fatigue caused by systemic oppression. As a Sixth Street Wellness therapist, I draw upon our collective values in my practice, especially “intention”—learning the unique needs and experiences of each client and working with purpose and care is critical for moving through challenges into a space of strength and hope.

Beyond my work as a therapist,  I am a Social Worker and Social Justice Advocate with over 8 years of experience dedicated to rehabilitating individuals back into their communities after interactions with the criminal justice system, an independent broker for individuals with developmental disabilities empowering them to self-direct their services in the ways that best meet their needs and a wellness circle facilitator providing opportunities for collective healing in a variety of group settings.