Family therapy and counseling in New Haven, CT

Simple Intentions Counseling LLC looks for client's that are insightful, curious, and ready to explore the deeper layers of their emotional life. They may be struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, relationship patterns, or a persistent feeling of being “stuck.” They want clarity, self-acceptance, and tools to manage their emotions — but more than that, they want to understand why they feel the way they do. They’re not afraid to be challenged and are open to connecting their current struggles with earlier life experiences. They want lasting change, not quick fixes — and they’re ready to do the work.

Emil Pauling has 16 years of experience treating adolescents, young adults, adults, and families with varied challenges. Emil takes a holistic, strength-based approach to empower clients to meet their goals. Emil also has 34 years of combined experience in teaching, crisis intervention, and facilitating therapeutic and music programs. Life has its challenges. Finding joy in exploring your interests like music and humor can create a nice balance.

Taking the first step toward therapy can be difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 16 years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Throughout my career, I have worked in community mental health and held leadership roles overseeing outpatient mental health programs.

I specialize in helping individuals navigate trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, infertility, women’s issues, and life transitions. I believe that while our experiences shape us, they do not have to define us. I am trained EMDR and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and tailor treatment to each person’s unique needs and goals.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor offering virtual therapy in Connecticut, New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia. I hold a Ph.D. in Counseling Education and Supervision and specialize in working with individuals navigating the impact of childhood maltreatment and trauma, including sexual abuse. I also support women living with autoimmune diseases who are managing the emotional and psychological toll of chronic illness.

As a clinician, I enjoy working with everyone in all phases of life helping in building self-esteem, managing addiction, trauma, self-discovery, medication management, anger management, re-establishing one's dreams/purpose, building/strengthening relationships one has with self, partners or family systems.

I have worked with foster children, young adults, primary care staff and patients, those who struggled with substance abuse in a methadone clinic, provided supervision to non-licensed social workers in the hospital.

I welcome the opportunity to meet with you for a consultation to see if working together would be a great match like a grilled cheese or peanut butter sandwich.

Best of luck on your journey to health and wellness.