top of page

Paulina Rivas, MA, LPC 

Rivas Photo for Bio.jpg

Hi! I’m Paulina Rivas, LPC, a Licensed Professional Counselor holding a Master’s Degree in

Clinical Counseling and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. My approach is grounded in

person-centered therapy, and I believe in creating a space where you can feel
truly seen, heard, and accepted for who you are. I see therapy as a collaborative process where

we can slow down, get curious about what’s happening beneath the surface, and make sense

of the patterns that may be shaping your thoughts, feelings, and relationships.


I use an insight-to-action approach, drawing from psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral

perspectives to help you understand yourself more deeply while also finding practical ways to

navigate challenges, build new skills, and create meaningful change in your everyday life. When

it feels helpful, I may also incorporate tools and perspectives from approaches such as

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), always

tailoring our work to what feels most relevant to you.


I bring warmth, compassion, curiosity, and a nonjudgmental presence to our work together. I

believe therapy can hold both depth and lightness, and I value showing up authentically and

making room for humor when it feels natural. I’ll meet you where you are, while gently

challenging you when it may help.


Together, we can explore what may be getting in the way and work toward a life that feels more

aligned with who you are and what matters to you. Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy

spending time with my three dogs and finding ways to slow down and reconnect with nature.

I also love kayaking and hiking. I enjoy working with teens and adults navigating the effects

of complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns. I’m especially drawn to

people who are curious about themselves, exploring who they are and what matters to them,

or are ready for something to change. If what you’ve read resonates with you, I’d be honored

to connect and explore whether we might be a good fit.

​

Specialties:

  • 12+ and up

  • Adolescents and Adults

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Relationship Issues

  • Person-centered approach

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

  • Life Transitions 

bottom of page