Dawn Paulson, MA

(She/Her/Hers)

About Dawn

If you’re looking for a therapist who can hold complexity, meet hard conversations with warmth, and still make room for humor, you’re in the right place. I believe therapy has the power to transform while also honoring the full messiness of being human. My work blends relational, somatic, and trauma-informed approaches to support growth, connection, and resilience- without losing sight of joy.

Therapeutic Style

I bring a creative, holistic, and integrative perspective to therapy, shaped by more than 25 years of experience as an occupational therapist, yoga instructor, and my work as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Clients describe me as an insightful communicator, compassionate space-holder, and a cheerleader for change- often all at once. My style is direct yet collaborative, playful yet professional, and grounded in the belief that growth usually happens just outside our comfort zones.

A photo of Dawn in a red shirt leaning against a brick wall

Approach & Passions

I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families build connection, regulation, and resilience. My work integrates body-based approaches such as Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Brainspotting, Therapeutic Listening, and biofeedback with relational, systemic, and attachment-informed frameworks. I’ve also co-created 1-2-3 RESET®, a trauma-sensitive intervention model used internationally in educational and therapeutic settings. In couples therapy, I draw on advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy to help partners navigate conflict, deepen emotional connection, and create more ease in their relationships. Across all of my work, I honor the systems that shape your life – family, culture, society, and identity – and explore how they influence healing and connection.

Fun Facts & Personal Life…

  • INFJ-A, Clifton Strengths: self-assurance/ empathy/ responsibility, Aquarius, Oldest child (and grandchild): TL;DR- Bossing with compassion and overachieving for fun 😉
  • I love creating, crafting, reading, dancing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing – basically anything that doesn’t require hand-eye coordination.
  • Cozy blankets, good food, and meaningful conversations are my jam.
  • I’ve raised four kids, founded five companies, and parented three dogs and thousands of bees. A PhD-level training program in staying grounded amidst chaos!

Whether we’re exploring trauma, relational growth, or simply figuring out how to thrive in this messy human experience, my goal is to create a space where you feel seen, supported, and inspired in your journey of becoming more authentically, sustainably YOU!

Favorite quotes:

“I dwell in possibility.” – Emily Dickinson

“Commit to loving yourself completely. It’s the most radical thing you will do in your lifetime.” – Andrea Gibson