About

ABOUT ME
HELLO AND WELCOME!

My name is Paula Chouinard-Rinal. I have worked for over twenty years as a licensed clinical social worker. I graduated from Grand Valley State University with a master’s degree in social work in 1999. My license to practice is from the state of Michigan. I have worked with a wide range of therapeutic settings: crisis stabilization, intensive outpatient care, the foster care setting, adoption, and the criminal justice system. I work with clients affected by complex trauma, depression, severe anxiety, self-esteem issues, suicidal ideation, self- harm, grief and loss issues, and relationship issues.

I know that it takes a great amount of courage to engage in counselling Please read this quote from Dr. Brown about courage: “Courage is a heart word.” “The root of the word is cor-the Latin word for heart.” “In one of its earliest forms the word courage meant to speak with one’s mind by telling all of one’s heart.” (Brene Brown, I Thought It Was Just Me). Yes, it takes a lot of courage to share one’s heart. Life is too difficult to do it alone. We are designed to lean on each other. I affirm you and commend you highly for seeking out support.

As you decide to commit to a counselling arrangement, I want you to know that I approach each counselling session with compassion, empathy, and a non-judgmental perspective. I am always honoured to hear the voice of your heart. I sincerely believe that you can achieve empowerment, hope and joy for your life. I will offer you encouragement and support so that you can achieve your goals. We will do it together!

I use the following therapeutic skills: mindfulness, trauma focused cognitive behaviour therapy (TFCBT), solution focused therapy, client centered therapy, strength- based therapies, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and shame resiliency therapies.

I am constantly learning from my clients. They have taught me the importance of tenacity, and the profound importance of connecting with one another. I am currently working on a mindfulness training, integrative medicine for mental health training, and a training on trauma informed yoga.
When I am not involved in counselling sessions, I find enjoyment in spending time with my large family, hiking, kayaking, biking, camping, exploring different kinds of music, finding holistic ways to cook, and redoing my one-hundred and twenty- year-old home.

Kind Regards,

Paula


REVIEWS:
Written by A.M. on August 7, 2020 after counselling for three months on issues concerning suicidal ideation, self-harm, panic attacks, and emotion regulation issues. Paula is one of the most compassionate counsellors I have ever met. She listens with her whole heart, and she has helped me with many trauma issues. I don’t know what I would have done without her help.

Written by K.K. on September 15, 2020 after counselling for four months on issues concerning panic attacks, suicide ideation, depression, and severe anxiety.
Paula has taught me many skills to handle my emotions, that have overwhelmed me for many years. She has also helped me to manage my panic attacks. She truly cares for the people she counsels. She has made a big difference in my life. She is very easy to talk to about anything.

Written by M.S. on November 15, 2019 after counselling for three months on complex trauma issues, and emotion regulation skills. My trauma issues have affected me for most of my life. My dreams have even changed. My trauma was always there, waking me up most nights. I have more peace and hope for myself now. Paula is amazing!

Written by M.B. on December 11, 2019 after counselling for four months on grief and loss issues, self-esteem, and severe depression and anxiety. I know that I will probably be lonely and sad at times, when I think about my husband, but now I know how to deal with my emotions. I can also reach out to other people, and ask for help. Paula is very caring and compassionate.

Written by B.I. on June 9, 2020, after counselling for three months on severe depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues. Seeing Paula was my “safe place” to come to each week. She is easy to talk to, and she really cares about the people she counsels. She has helped me to use my skills when I feel sad, or when I worry too much. She is a great counsellor.

I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO MEETING WITH YOU!