- Client-centered approach
- Practical CBT tools
- Support for depression
About Paula
Dr. Paula Alvarez greets people with a calm, direct style and a focus on practical help. She is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with 35 years of experience. She works with people who are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and related life strains. Her language is straightforward and she aims to make the first steps into therapy feel manageable.
Her approach centers on the client’s goals and preferences. She draws from client-centered therapy, which means she listens first and follows what matters most to the person in the room. She also uses cognitive behavioral techniques when a person wants concrete tools to change thinking and behavior.
Dr. Alvarez has a long background in both inpatient and outpatient settings and has worked with diverse cultural issues. She has experience running group programs and supporting people through anger, addiction, grief, and life transitions. Her training and practice include helping older adults and caregivers navigate the stress that comes with aging and end-of-life concerns.
Sessions often include practical assignments such as written exercises or reading suggestions for people who find homework useful. She blends elements from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for emotion regulation and mindfulness when those approaches fit the person’s needs. The emphasis is on skills people can use between sessions.
Her practice is based in Missouri and she offers services in English. People interested in starting are invited to use the Start Therapy process on the site to match and schedule a session.
Her approach centers on the client’s goals and preferences. She draws from client-centered therapy, which means she listens first and follows what matters most to the person in the room. She also uses cognitive behavioral techniques when a person wants concrete tools to change thinking and behavior.
Dr. Alvarez has a long background in both inpatient and outpatient settings and has worked with diverse cultural issues. She has experience running group programs and supporting people through anger, addiction, grief, and life transitions. Her training and practice include helping older adults and caregivers navigate the stress that comes with aging and end-of-life concerns.
Sessions often include practical assignments such as written exercises or reading suggestions for people who find homework useful. She blends elements from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for emotion regulation and mindfulness when those approaches fit the person’s needs. The emphasis is on skills people can use between sessions.
Her practice is based in Missouri and she offers services in English. People interested in starting are invited to use the Start Therapy process on the site to match and schedule a session.
This summary is based on the profile information listed on BetterHelp.