Jennifer Pauk

Jennifer Pauk is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Washington, D.C. and Maryland. Jennifer works with adults and adolescents 14+. Many of them say that worrying, irritability, feeling anxious in social settings, sadness and stress affect their work, school or relationships. They may be perfectionists, criticize themselves, self-harm, or use food or alcohol to feel better. They do not feel ‘like themselves’.

Jennifer addresses depression, anxiety, stress, loss, and trauma. She serves professionals, high school and college students, and perinatal women. She has a special interest in addressing chronic pain, adjusting to chronic health problems, and assessing problematic alcohol use.

Jennifer’s style is collaborative and curious. She highly values diversity and strives to approach each person honoring their culture and identity. She seeks to understand deeply, and at times uses humor to highlight the common human experiences. Jennifer is trained in evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Processing. At a first session, Jennifer asks a client to tell their life story, which many say is a new experience. Once goals are identied, Jennifer includes insight-oriented and skills based methods, and asks clients to practice new skills each week.

Jennifer Pauk received her MSW and MPH from the University of North Carolina and her BA from Brown University. Her experience includes working in 20+ years as a clinician, manager and supervisor at community health centers, high school-based wellness centers and community mental health organization. She has worked with clients diverse in age, income, educational and professional background.

When not working Jennifer gardens, hikes, bikes and throws pottery. She is a Single Mother By Choice and has a biological daughter and a foster child at home.