Life & Work with Dr. Alexis Paul of South Pasadena

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Alexis Paul.

Hi Dr. Alexis, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was always interested in psychology and understanding why humans did the things they did throughout history, as well as the emotional and mental impact on society. As I moved through my doctorate training I realized I had a passion working with kids and teens, in particular queer and trans youth. Research shows LGBTQ youth are statistically more likely than cisgender, straight youth to have mental health difficulties. There’s also research showing even just one affirming, supportive person can make a difference in a queer kid’s life. I’ve really enjoyed helping empower my clients, building emotion regulation skills, explore their identity, and provide a safe haven to be their authentic self.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s been a long road! I graduated college in North Carolina in 2016, then moved to NYC to attend Columbia University for my masters, and then moved to Philadelphia for my doctorate at La Salle University. Then I moved to San Bernardino and worked at a Transitional Age Youth program for my final doctorate internship, and after graduating in 2023 I made my final move to the Pasadena/South Pasadena area. And I’m originally from Connecticut! I’ve done a lot of moving these past couple of years, and that has been challenging in itself. However, with each move I was able to explore different fields of practice and learn from many colleagues and mentors, as well as narrow in on my scope of practice.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with LGBTQ kids, teens, and young adults. I also work with high risk youth and teach DBT skills, which focus on mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
I offer individual therapy and group therapy for elementary, middle school, and high schoolers. Right now I’m most excited for my new high school D&D therapy group for queer teens. I love providing group therapy as it allows members to realize they are not alone and provides a therapeutic outlet that individual therapy cannot offer. I think there’s power and connection in hearing from a same-aged peer, which is what group can provide.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
I went into this profession to help people live the lives they want. My number one goal is to keep my client safe, and I value the trust my clients have in me when they open up in sessions. My hope is for my clients to build confidence, self awareness, and skills that can be used outside of the therapy room. I also want my clients to have a positive, helpful experience in therapy.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.anchorandbloom.info
• Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/alexis-paul-south-pasadena-ca/1646187