Shad St. Paul , LICSW

Shad St. Paul is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and a Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP) practicing in Washington. As an LICSW he has advanced clinical training to assess and treat a wide range of mental health concerns, and as an SUDP he brings specialized experience in substance use disorder treatment. Over 14 years in the field have shaped a compassionate, practical approach to helping people navigate difficult transitions and persistent symptoms.

He focuses on addictions, trauma and abuse, anger, self-esteem, and depression, while also addressing related concerns such as codependency, commitment issues, communication difficulties, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and family problems. His work blends evidence-informed techniques with a strengths-based, holistic perspective that honors each person's values and background. Sessions emphasize collaboration - identifying goals together and developing strategies that fit the individual's life and priorities.

Shad combines empathy with clinical structure to support lasting change, whether the aim is managing mood, reducing substance use, repairing relationships, or finding clearer direction in life. He aims to create a respectful, nonjudgmental environment where people can explore their experiences and build practical skills for recovery and growth.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Shad uses client-centered therapy to create a respectful, nonjudgmental space where the client's perspective guides the work. This approach focuses on supporting personal strengths and helping people find their own solutions, which can be helpful for self-esteem, life purpose, and relationship concerns.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to identify unhelpful thoughts and behaviors and replace them with more effective patterns. CBT is often applied for depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and many day-to-day coping challenges. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) offers practical skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, which can be beneficial for anger, intense mood swings, and problems with self-management.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Shad works collaboratively with people to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences, and he adapts strategies over time based on what is most helpful.

Online therapy through video, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging makes it easier to fit care into a busy life and to maintain continuity across changing schedules or locations. These options support flexibility and regular engagement, allowing licensed professionals and therapists to deliver focused, consistent care in ways that suit individual routines and comfort levels.