Michelle Mota Paulino, LMHC
Verified background check
Message from Michelle
The individuals who find me tend to put everyone else first. They struggle with perfectionism, low self-esteem, and people-pleasing. They may feel out of control emotionally or unsure how to express what they actually need. Anxiety and depression can show up as overthinking, guilt, self-doubt, or feeling like no matter how much they accomplish, it’s never enough. Many are new to therapy and unsure where to start but they know something needs to change. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. Facing these big emotions can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it by yourself. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded. Together, we create space to slow down and understand how you got here. We’ll explore the experiences and relationships that shaped how you see yourself. At the same time, we’ll build practical tools so difficult emotions feel more manageable and don’t take over your day.
About Michelle's practice
Weekdays 9am - 5pm
$$$
Sliding scale
Reflective
Body-based
In-person available: No
Virtual available: Yes
Dating
Life Transitions
Young Adulthood
Depression
Anxiety
Carelon Behavioral Health
Magnacare
Meritain
UMR
Aetna
Cigna
United / Oxford
Healthfirst
Oscar
Fidelis
Medicaid
Oxford
NY
Why state matters
Get to Know Michelle
How much do you share about yourself during our time together and why?
In our sessions, I prioritize you. I don't often share much about myself because I believe it's important to utilize our time together to focus on unpacking everything you've carried with you up until this point. Let's make this a space to unburden your shoulders and feel safe. If you have any questions, we can talk about it!
How should I prepare for my first session with you?
In the first session, I take the lead by reviewing the intake, going over practice policies, and focusing on getting to know you. You’re encouraged to come just as you are—there’s no rush to share anything before you’re ready, and no pressure to dive in right away.
From your perspective, what is therapy?
Therapy is a relationship where you can feel comfortable being uncomfortable as you learn more about yourself. I strive to create an environment where you feel safe to be real, free from judgment, as you explore what no longer serves you. Rather than giving advice or telling you what to do, I believe in supporting your own self-discovery. You know yourself best, and by fostering greater self-awareness and healthier ways of expressing it, meaningful growth can take place.