Meet Paula

Hello/Hola, I am Paula

I believe that the therapist-client relationship is central to the therapeutic process. My goal is that clients feel heard and understood to create a safe and trusting relationship. I work to provide a space where they can feel safe and whole as a person, integrating all parts of themselves. I encourage curiosity, compassion and no judgement. 


I feel grateful and honored when clients trust me to partner with them in this transformative psychotherapeutic experience. 


Although my theoretical orientation is psychodynamic, I take an integrative approach to therapy. I recognize the importance of past experiences, relationships,  thoughts, feelings and narratives that shape our behavior and interactions with the world and who we are in it. 


I incorporate mindfulness, including mindful self-compassion, and psychodrama into our work together.

I also focus on the relational aspect of therapy. The way we relate to each other as therapist and client can provide insight and meaning. During our sessions, I pay attention to my own emotion, thoughts and sensations in order to guide my work and provide observations and feedback.



What to expect?


Throughout our work together, I may introduce different therapeutic techniques. These may include cognitive-behavioral strategies, mindfulness exercises, expressive arts techniques, or narrative therapy approaches, among others. We will explore what resonates with you and incorporate those approaches into our sessions.


I believe that the therapeutic relationship is crucial, and I am committed to creating a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported.


Therapy is may involve some discomfort or emotional challenges along the way. However, it can also be a transformative and empowering experience that leads to personal growth, increased self-awareness, and improved overall well-being.


I look forward to working collaboratively with you.

The benefits of therapy

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Personal growth

By helping clients identify values and goals to work towards personal growth.

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Increase resilience

By learning how to handle life's challenges.

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Self-awareness

By better understanding emotions, thoughts, behaviors, narratives and patterns.

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Improve relationships

By supporting clients in enhancing their communication skills and fostering more meaningful connections with others.

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Fun Fact

was born and raised in Argentina. 
When I’m not helping clients, you can find me reading books, practicing yoga or dancing, hiking trails or creating a Pinterest board for a new DIY project. 

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Education

MA in Psychology  - Universidad de Buenos Aires and Argosy University.

Advanced Training
  • ITTI – International Trauma Training Institute
  • ICP+P - Institute of Contemporary Psychotherapy + Psychoanalysis
  • AMI - Action Methods Institute (Psychodrama)
  • Escuela Sistémica Argentina 

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Languages

English & Spanish. 

Contact Me


I’d love to hear from you.

Just choose the most convenient method and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.


 

3108 Mt Pleasant St NW

 

Washington, DC 20010 


202 455 4164

paula@paulaotero.com

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