Paula

Paula Shepard

Registered Social Worker

Life is perpetually full of transitions whether it be shifts we need to make or opportunities we choose to pursue. Regardless, there can be a lot of layers to these transitions and can increase their impact on your life. Together, we can determine your needs and what the plan will be to meet them.

About Me

I understand the profound shifts that come with life's big transitions, particularly parenthood. I provide a calm, non-judgmental space where we can explore the unique joys and challenges of your journey. We will work together to process emotions and develop practical strategies for navigating new realities. My aim is to help you find balance and confidence, feeling fully supported through every change.

Approach

When you’re navigating change—especially around new parenthood—I focus on helping you untangle what’s most pressing and translate insights into manageable steps. In sessions (Kitchener or online, in English) I hold a steady, paced space where we name feelings, try gentle experiments, and check in on what’s working between meetings. We address anxiety, grief, body image and perinatal concerns with practical strategies and compassionate reflection. People seeking clarity and gradual change tend to find this collaborative approach useful.
Contact Paula

Ask a quick question or arrange a time to meet.

Basic Information

Services


Services Offered:

  • Counseling

    A form of talk therapy providing a safe, confidential space to explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviours with a trained professional.

    Learn more about Counseling
  • Free Consultation

    A no-cost initial session to meet the therapist, discuss needs, and decide whether they are the right fit before committing.

  • Online Therapy

    Therapy sessions conducted over video call, phone, or secure messaging, using the same professional methods delivered remotely.

    Learn more about Online Therapy
  • Psychotherapy

    In-depth therapeutic work that explores patterns in thoughts, emotions, and relationships to produce lasting psychological change.

    Learn more about Psychotherapy
  • Therapy

    Professional treatment for mental health concerns, providing a structured space for insight, emotional processing, and behavioural change.

    Learn more about Therapy
  • Personal Development

    The ongoing process of self-awareness, self-improvement, and reaching one's potential, pursued not because something is wrong but to live more fully.

Works With:

  • Adolescents
  • Adults
  • Individuals
  • Parents

Area of Expertise


Scope of Practice:

  • Life Transitions

    Major life changes, such as relocation, retirement, parenthood, or career shifts, that disrupt routine and require psychological adjustment.

    Learn more about Life Transitions
  • Anxiety

    Persistent worry, nervousness, or fear that is disproportionate to the situation and interferes with daily functioning.

    Learn more about Anxiety
  • Grief & Loss

    The emotional, physical, and psychological response to the death of a loved one or another significant loss.

    Learn more about Grief & Loss
  • Body Image

    How a person perceives, thinks, and feels about their physical appearance. When persistently negative, it can drive distress, avoidance, and disordered eating.

    Learn more about Body Image
  • Postnatal or Perinatal Depression

    Depression occurring during pregnancy or in the months following childbirth, affecting mood, energy, bonding with the baby, and daily functioning.

    Learn more about Postnatal or Perinatal Depression
  • Eating Disorders

    A group of conditions, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating, involving disturbed eating behaviours and a distorted relationship with food and body image.

    Learn more about Eating Disorders
  • Personal Development

    The ongoing process of self-awareness, self-improvement, and reaching one's potential, pursued not because something is wrong but to live more fully.

  • Pregnancy & Fertility Issues

    The emotional and psychological dimensions of pregnancy, fertility treatment, pregnancy loss, or the transition to parenthood.

    Learn more about Pregnancy & Fertility Issues
  • Women's Issues

    Psychological challenges more commonly experienced by women, including gender-based stress, reproductive health concerns, body image, caregiving burden, and societal expectations.

Professional Title:

  • Registered Social Worker

    A social worker registered with a regulatory body to provide social work services including therapy and case management.

Qualifications


Wilfrid Laurier University

Registrations


Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers

Registered Social Worker

Service Area


Rooted Thistle Counselling

In-person & Online

Kitchener, Ontario

Canada