Paula Steele , LCSW

Paula Steele is an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with 15 years of experience in social work and clinical practice. She has worked across settings that include day treatment and in-home support for children and families, as well as individual counseling for adults coping with mental health symptoms, domestic violence, homelessness, chronic illness, and criminal history. Her clinical background encompasses extensive work with ADHD, autism spectrum concerns, trauma, depression, relationship difficulties, anxiety, and parenting challenges.

Her approach is strengths based and client centered, grounded in the view that a trusting therapeutic relationship is essential to meaningful progress. Paula aims to create an empathetic, non-judgmental space where clients can explore concerns while developing practical skills. She emphasizes skill building, self-care, mindfulness practices, and strengthening natural supports as part of goal-directed work.

As a parent of two children, one of whom has special needs, Paula brings lived experience with the stresses of caregiving, service navigation, and balancing family responsibilities. She combines professional training with personal insight to support individuals and families as they work toward clearer communication, improved coping, and more manageable daily routines.

Therapeutic approaches and online support

Paula Steele draws on client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness therapy to tailor care to each person's needs. Client-centered therapy focuses on building a collaborative, empathetic relationship that helps clients explore their goals and strengths; this approach is useful for relationship concerns, parenting stress, and navigating life changes. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) uses practical strategies to identify and shift unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, often applied for anxiety, depression, and panic symptoms. Mindfulness therapy teaches present-moment awareness and simple attention practices to reduce stress reactivity and support coping with mood and anxiety challenges.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Paula works collaboratively with clients to determine which methods fit their goals, preferences, and day-to-day realities. She integrates techniques as needed so therapy aligns with what a client needs in the moment and over time.

Online therapy options include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, offering flexibility to connect from different locations and schedules. These formats can make it easier to access licensed professionals and maintain consistency in care while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities.