Emily Paddock LMFT #149774 (she/her)

Clinician

Individual Clients

Hello! I’m so glad you’re here.

I’m Emily, a dedicated and compassionate therapist committed to helping you navigate life’s challenges and discover a more fulfilling, balanced self. My approach is built on the principles of inclusivity, respect, and empathy, ensuring that every client feels valued and understood.

Since my start in the field of mental health, I have specialized in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, recognizing and honoring the unique experiences and perspectives that each person brings. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, my goal is to create a safe and welcoming space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, where we work together to identify your goals and develop greater insight into how to manage those more tender parts. My therapeutic style is warm, inviting, and client-centered. You will always be the author of your own story. Think of me as your agent. I am here to help guide you, provide avenues, and reflect options—but you will always be the ultimate decision maker in your life.

Starting therapy can be a big step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. My hope is we can create a space collaboratively, where you can feel comfortable, heard, and respected. Together, we can work toward your goals and help you find the inner peace and happiness you deserve.

Couples and Families

Let’s face it, relationships are tough. We all experience seasons of difficulty with our loved ones.

That said, know that you don’t have to face those challenges alone. I am passionate about helping partners and families rediscover their bond and deepen their emotional connection. My therapy style is centered around holding a safe and welcoming space where couples and families alike can explore their relationship dynamics and work toward a more loving and fulfilling bond.

The therapeutic lens I utilize focuses on working on identifying and expressing emotions, enhancing emotional responsiveness, and creating secure and lasting bonds amongst relationships. Whether you’re facing communication issues, conflict, or simply feeling disconnected, I am here to guide you through the process of healing and reconnection.

I believe every relational journey is unique, and I honor the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences that each person brings to the relationship. My approach is inclusive, empathetic, and non-judgmental, ensuring that all individuals feel heard and understood. Together, we will work to uncover the underlying emotions that drive your interactions, helping you to develop new patterns of communication and connection.

Starting any type of relational work whether that be couples work or family work can be a courageous step, and I am dedicated to supporting you throughout this journey. My goal is to help you and your loved ones build a stronger, more resilient relationship, where love and understanding flourish.

About Me

I believe in authenticity and transparency, and lead with those principles in both my personal and professional life. In that vein, it’s important to note that I am as human as you. I live my life with parts of myself that I am proud to lead with and then there are those more tender parts that I like to tuck away. We may not share all the same notions and lived experiences, but I do believe there to be something so beautiful about being able to connect knowing that we are humans thriving and struggling simultaneously.

Outside of my work as a therapist, I find balance and joy through nature, music (both live music and car jam sessions), volunteering with animals, connecting with others over a cup of coffee or a matcha, and binge watching a tv series (yes, guilty as charged), and gentle body movement. All of this provides me with a sanctuary where I can reconnect with myself and find inspiration to better show up for my people—clients included.

Know that I am here to walk alongside you on your journey, offering support and understanding as you navigate life’s ebbs and flows. Together, we can explore your inner world, heal past needs, and cultivate a more fulfilling and authentic life. I’m so excited to get started!


My areas of clinical dedication include (see below for my training and education):

  • Anxiety and panic (including around life stressors/changes)

  • Kids/teens, young adults

  • Relationships (romantic, familial, friendships)

  • Body Image and weight concerns (from a weight neutral lens)

  • LGBTQIA+ affirmed therapy (sexuality/gender identity)

  • Identity development/self-esteem

  • PTSD, and trauma-focused healing  (childhood, adulthood)

  • Education

    I graduated with my B.A. in Communications Studies from California State University, Northridge.

    I then Graduated with my M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University.

    There, my coursework consisted of two years of coursework, and one year of practicum experience.

    Prior to my clinical work, I worked in nonprofit, serving as a liaison between constituents, businesses,

    and the arts and culture world of San Diego. This experience garnered me greater insight into diverse populations, providing a boots-on-the-ground understanding of populus needs.

  • Training and Licensing

    I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT #149774 .

    I have received advanced training in PTSD assessment and treatment, couples therapy, trauma-informed care, weight and body image concerns, and serving LGBTQIA+ populations.

    Remaining up to date with my continued learning is quintessential to offering the highest quality of care to my clients. It is important to me to utilize evidence-based practices. I am trained in the following modalities. For more information, follow the links below:

    Internal Family Systems (IFS) Informed Therapy:

    https://ifs-institute.com/online-learning

    Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT):

    https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand_tx/cognitive_processing.asp

    Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT):

    https://iceeft.com/what-is-eft/

    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

    https://beckinstitute.org/

    Safe Space Affirmed Allyship for LGBTQIA+ population:

    https://safespacetraining.org/

  • Experience

    Prior to private practice, my experience has been exclusive to the non-profit space, in an

    outpatient setting.

    I have served veterans/active-duty service members and their families as well as civilians. I primarily work with adults with experience with clients ranging from school-aged children to adults in their 60’s.

    I have experience with substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma and other stressors, suicidal ideation and behaviors, gender identity/sexuality, weight and eating concerns and more.

    I also work with couples and families and value inclusivity in my work. This includes working with non-cishet couples, non-monogamous relationships, and all variations of what a relationship may be.

*Open Chair is LGBTQIA+ affirming, and welcomes all people and all of the identities they hold, including; race, culture, ethnicity, ability level, body shape/size, neurodiversity, education, income, occupation, immigration status, and any other important parts of you. All Open Chair clinicians are ND affirming and work from an anti-oppressive lens.