Joan “Joanie” Paulsen, BA (she/her)
Joan “Joanie” Paulsen, BA
Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee
(408) 337-2918
Supervised by Mariana Nenadic-Shanks, MA, LMFT 40783
Education/Degrees
MA in Counseling Psychology from the University of San Francisco in process
BA in Psychology from John F. Kennedy University
Specific Professional Training
Intimate Partner Violence training by Women's SV in 2024
Crisis Response Training at USF 2024
Memberships
California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
Meet Joanie
Every person’s journey that brings them to therapy is unique. My goal is to meet you with warmth, compassion, and a genuine presence as we walk together towards healing and growth. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques to suit my client’s individual needs through a process of mutual collaboration. I believe in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel seen, heard, and supported. Building a foundation of trust between client and clinician takes time, and I will honor that process by meeting you where you are - with empathy, patience, and kindness.
My path to become a therapist was more than a career choice, it was a calling. My own life story is interwoven with challenges that have pulled me into seeking therapy in my life. The incredible growth that I experienced allowed me to develop the necessary tools that helped to deepen my self-understanding and cultivate more fulfilling relationships. I look back on that time with gratitude and pride - it wasn’t always easy, but having the right therapist by my side made all the difference. Now, it’s an honor to offer that same kind of support to others as they navigate their unique journeys.
My Background
I studied psychology at John F. Kennedy University, where I was fortunate to learn from professors who were also practicing clinicians. Their mentorship inspired me to pursue the path of becoming a licensed therapist. While completing my undergraduate degree, I began volunteering with a day program serving adults and older adults with severe psychiatric disabilities. Over time, this role evolved into leading regular arts and crafts groups, where I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of combining creativity with human connection. These experiences sparked my interest in eventually incorporating art therapy groups into my practice.
Over the years since then, I have worked in both the public schools and private schools, including special education classroom settings at times. Working with these students has been deeply rewarding - they’ve brought joy, laughter, and a youthful zest into my daily life. I am currently a graduate student at the University of San Francisco, and after completing my coursework in counseling psychology, I am thrilled to continue my journey as a trainee with the Christian Counseling Collective.
Areas of Focus
As a practicing Christian, I proudly stand as an ally to the LGBTQA+ community. Growing up in a church that welcomed and affirmed LGBTQA+ Christians left a lasting impact on me. While faith is an important part of my identity, I also believe therapy should be centered around each individual client’s needs. Whether or not to include spirituality or faith-based perspectives in our work together is a conversation we’ll have based on your preferences and goals.
I aim to support clients navigating a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, self-image and self-esteem, grief and loss, mood disorders, and PTSD. My approach prioritizes collaboration and compassion - I’m here to walk alongside you so that you don’t have to face challenges alone. I offer individual therapy and family therapy as needed for teens, young adults, adults, and older adults.
Fun Facts About Joanie
I have fostered a love for creative writing, which is very therapeutic for me in my personal life. Arts and crafts are another passion of mine, whether it’s making Christmas ornaments or creating collages. Visiting local art museums and exhibits, and seeing the latest indie movie, all inspire my creativity. Being immersed in nature is another therapeutic outlet that brings me a sense of peace and calm, especially day trips to the beach with family, friends, and even by myself. “Me dates,” I call them, or outings that foster “me time” from others, have become a regular ritual of self-care in my life. I enjoy hiking, walking on the beach, picnicking in nature, and weekend getaways to fun places like Monterey and Yosemite.
