Paula Fuentes, LMFT
Compassionate California LMFT for relationship and trauma care
- Stress and anxiety relief
- Relationship and communication help
- LGBTQ+ and kink-affirming
About Paula Fuentes
Paula Fuentes is a California-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with ten years of clinical experience supporting people through relationship challenges, anxiety, trauma, and major life transitions. She creates an affirming, trauma-informed space where clients can explore complicated emotions and patterns while developing practical skills for emotional resilience and healthier connections.
Paula has worked extensively with diverse communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, young adults, and people navigating consensual nonmonogamy and other complex relationship structures. Her practice emphasizes self-compassion, clearer communication, and individualized strategies that honor each person’s background and goals. Areas of focus include stress and anxiety management, relationship difficulties, parenting concerns, trauma and abuse recovery, self-esteem work, and issues related to sexuality and gender identity.
Using a blend of evidence-informed approaches and a person-centered stance, Paula helps clients build coping tools, repair communication breakdowns, and clarify life purpose. As an LMFT – a license that denotes training in working with individuals, couples, and families – she supports clients in navigating family of origin issues, codependency, fertility and separation challenges, and identity questions with respect and practicality. Paula aims to meet clients where they are and support them in creating more meaningful, authentic lives.
Paula has worked extensively with diverse communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, young adults, and people navigating consensual nonmonogamy and other complex relationship structures. Her practice emphasizes self-compassion, clearer communication, and individualized strategies that honor each person’s background and goals. Areas of focus include stress and anxiety management, relationship difficulties, parenting concerns, trauma and abuse recovery, self-esteem work, and issues related to sexuality and gender identity.
Using a blend of evidence-informed approaches and a person-centered stance, Paula helps clients build coping tools, repair communication breakdowns, and clarify life purpose. As an LMFT – a license that denotes training in working with individuals, couples, and families – she supports clients in navigating family of origin issues, codependency, fertility and separation challenges, and identity questions with respect and practicality. Paula aims to meet clients where they are and support them in creating more meaningful, authentic lives.
Areas of Expertise
Primary Focus
Additional Focus Areas
BDSM, kink, and alternative sex cultureCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsDisruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)Divorce and separationFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFertility issuesForgivenessGender dysphoriaGuilt and shameImpulsivityJealousyLife purposeMidlife crisisMood disordersPanic disorder and panic attacksPersonality disordersPolyamory / non-monogamous relationshipsPost-traumatic stressSelf-harmSelf-loveSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaWomen's issuesYoung adult issues
Therapeutic Approach
Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) Mindfulness Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Paula Fuentes have?
Paula Fuentes has 10 years of clinical experience.
Is Paula Fuentes a licensed therapist?
Yes. Paula Fuentes holds an LMFT - Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. California license CA LMFT 113516.
In which languages does Paula Fuentes provide therapy?
Paula Fuentes provides therapy in English.
Where is Paula Fuentes located?
Paula Fuentes is located in California.
How can I work with Paula Fuentes as my therapist?
You can work with Paula Fuentes through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Paula Fuentes work with international clients?
Paula Fuentes does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Paula Fuentes cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care with Paula Fuentes
Paula blends client-centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to support change in both feeling and action. Client-centered therapy focuses on building a trusting, nonjudgmental relationship so clients can explore their values and goals, which often helps with identity questions, relationship work, and self-esteem. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, making it practical for managing anxiety, stress, and mood-related concerns.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills are also part of her toolkit when emotional regulation and impulsivity are prominent issues. DBT offers concrete strategies for managing intense emotions, improving interpersonal effectiveness, and reducing impulsive reactions, which can be helpful for people dealing with strong mood swings, relationship conflicts, or overwhelming stress.
Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Paula works with each person to assess needs, goals, and preferences, and she adjusts methods over time so therapy stays relevant and effective. Online therapy expands access to that collaborative work: video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging allow licensed professionals and therapists to meet clients where they are, offering flexibility in scheduling and formats so care fits into everyday life.