Paula Prentis

I work with people ready to become un-stuck.

Wherever I go, strangers share their secrets, troubles or life stories with me. I guess I just have that face. Lucky for both of us, I have a genuine interest and the background to be an effective listener.

I have a unique mix of skills that has suited me in my 25-year career, both as a licensed mental health professional and more recently as a life coach. After earning a degree in social work, I studied psychoanalysis and learned how to deeply relax people through a certification in regression therapy from the Brian Weiss Institute. I’ve also served as a rape crisis counselor and taught rape sensitivity training to first responders in New York City.

Approximately ten years ago, based on our nation’s desperate need to address a growing mental health crisis among youth, I co-created the Your Self Series program to provide free mental and physical health resources that help young teens discover, manage and express who they are. I also co-wrote “Reach Before You Teach: Ignite Passion and Purpose In Your Classroom” (Corwin Press, 2014). Read the blog and download the book here.

Honestly, I geek out on neuroscience. Brain development and function pretty much explains everything we do, feel, think and say. Incorporating the brain-mind-body connection into my coaching has helped clients connect the dots between their thoughts, feelings, body and behavior, and develop ways to use this knowledge to reach their goals.

But that doesn’t explain why people confide in me. Perhaps it's because I readily tune in to people’s stories. Recently a new client told me about her son’s challenges after losing his father. My stomach lurched sensing there was more to the story—even more pain beyond this significant loss. It turned out there was, so I helped her connect the dots, shift approaches and heal her son. This provided her with the confidence to help herself.

I hope you find purpose and significance in all aspects of your life. And if you feel stuck, I can help you get back to the meaning-making, life-affirming inspirations that make life pretty darn neat. It would be my pleasure to work with you and figure it out together.

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Qualifications

Licensed Social Worker

Internal Family Systems Informed Coach

Certified Wellness Professional

Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional

Certified Clinical Trauma Professional

Certified in Cognitive Behavior Therapy

Well-versed in Neuroscience

Certified Worksite Wellness Specialist

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