Karen Paulk(She/Her/Hers)

Karen Paulk is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker located in Chicopee, MA and founder of Mending Messages Therapy Center. She has over 20 years of experience as a therapist, and enjoys helping individuals and couples heal their relationships. Many of Karen’s clients seek therapy to find more effective ways of coping with their depression, anxiety, relationships, and family issues. Their past experiences with trauma have led to the development of unhealthy coping strategies, which leave them emotionally exhausted and in conflict with those around them.

Karen helps clients find a balance in their lives and center themselves on their inner strengths. She believes that all individuals have unique strengths that show their resilience, and she encourages clients to acknowledge and internalize this resilience. Karen teaches clients how to assess their thoughts for harmful patterns, like self-criticism or judgment. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques, Karen helps clients adjust their thoughts to make their minds more conducive for positive emotion. Karen also gently guides clients through reflections about their past experiences and how their early relationships impact their current relationship patterns.

Karen earned a Master’s degree in Social Work from Smith College for Social Work. As a therapist of color, she is passionate about working with diverse communities, including the African American community. She has a warm, engaging therapy style that promotes empathy and compassion no matter the situation.