Paula Martin
I have always felt a deep connection to Human Services since the day my siblings came to me for advice on whatever problems they had. That personal experience fueled my pursuit of a career in counseling and therapy.
My greatest strengths lie in my distinct, personable professional approach, which is eclectic in nature and enhanced by a sense of humor and an energetic personality.
My credentials include a Master's in Human Services, licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, National Certified Counselor certification, a Bachelor of Metaphysical Science, and Ph.D. candidate with an emphasis on relationship dynamics. For over 40 years, I have been blessed with opportunities to serve as a clinician across diverse settings, including Child Welfare, Criminal Justice, Education, the Corporate Sector, and Military Family Life (all branches). I pride myself in being an instrument that provides a genuine, safe space for clients to embrace who they are while welcoming change, operating with the core belief that “everything starts and ends with the individual". On a personal note, I have been married for the past 42 years, and I have 4 adult children with 3 grandchildren. **If my availability doesn't match the day or time you need, feel free to message me, and I will do my very best to accommodate you.
First session
In our first session, my primary goal is to establish a safe, welcoming, and collaborative environment. We will begin with open-ended questions designed to build rapport and to discuss essential logistics, including informed consent, confidentiality and its limits, client expectations, my counseling approach, initial assessments, and scheduling/cancellation policies. Following this introduction, we will move to the heart of the matter: exploring your reasons for seeking services and working together to establish initial, collaborative treatment goals. My encouragement for the first session is to offer a breath of fresh air to the client, as I say, “Together, let’s do this”!
Strengths
My greatest strengths lie in my distinct, personable professional approach, which is eclectic in nature and enhanced by a sense of humor and an energetic personality. This specific individualized formula allows me to engage even the most resistant clients effectively. I am best known for my impeccable communication, active listening, and strong engagement skills, which form the foundation of our therapeutic alliance. I firmly believe, I am fulfilling my purpose in life by empowering individuals how to obtain the best that life has to offer, regardless of both internal and external circumstances.
Ideal clients
I am genuinely honored to engage clients from all walks of life who desire a more effective way to process, adjust to, and navigate through the puzzle of life. I welcome clients who are resistant to change or who don't believe how everything starts and ends with the individual. My eclectic approach is a breath of fresh air that is not forgotten.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have found CBT to be highly effective in empowering individuals to understand how the interplay among thoughts, feelings, and behaviors shapes their life experiences. CBT allows individuals to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
Supportive
The use of Supportive Therapy allows me to develop a strong, therapeutic, and genuine alliance with clients, demonstrating encouragement, respect, and a focus on their goals. This dynamic is crucial to an effective therapist-client relationship and a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
Utilizing a solution-focused approach is critical to making progress, as the method focuses on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems. It emphasizes identifying and using an individual's strengths and resources to achieve goals.
Christian Counseling
This therapeutic approach allows me to integrate spirituality with traditional counseling principles to address emotional and behavioral issues without focusing on a specific religion. Additionally, this approach is very effective when introducing the nature of forgiveness, love, hope, and purpose.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Licensed in
- New JerseyLicense 37PC00629600
- PennsylvaniaLicense PC004209