HEATHER | Symmetry of Self

“Your journey has molded you for your greater good,
and it was exactly what it needed to be.
Don't think you've lost time.
There is no short-cutting to life.
It took each and every situation
you have encountered to bring you to the now.
And now is right on time.”

Asha Tyson

"May I become at all times, both now and forever, a protector for those without protection. A guide for those who have lost their way. A ship for those with oceans to cross. A bridge for those with rivers to cross. A sanctuary for those in danger. A lamp for those without light. A place of refuge for those who lack shelter. And a servant to all in need."

-Unknown

Heather J. McPaul, MS, LPC, GC-C, ACS

Owner & Operator

(Pronouns: She/her)

My name is Heather McPaul and I am a professional counselor licensed in the states of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I am a former U.S. Navy Master-at-Arms having served nearly 5 years in a mobile security squadron (MSS-3/MSRON-3) out of Bahrain providing anti-terrorism force protection and participating in Operation Vigilant Mariner (OVM) for the fifth fleet and then as law enforcement and security for Commander Fleet Activities Sasebo, Japan.

I am passionate about working with veterans and first responders who are going through difficult times in their lives and need to regain their sense of balance. Whether it's transitioning into the civilian world, healing from their professional experiences, or moving on from unhealthy dynamics, I work with people who want to get their lives in better shape, and what I enjoy most about this work is being the battle buddy and guide to those seeking to discover and integrate their true potential, helping them overcome obstacles and achieve personal growth. It is my honor to assist each individual in their journey toward a happier and healthier life!

NJ Lic #: 37PC00661600 ┃ PA Lic #: PC012833 ┃ NPI #: 1760849251

More About My Work

MY SPECIALTIES

Childhood Trauma

Survivors of Abuse and Neglect

I support adults in exploring the impacts of childhood abuse (sexual, physical or emotional) and/or neglect on their self-esteem and relationships. From being raised by a narcissistic parent to the developemental impacts of corporal punishment, I help survivors of child abuse build on their resiliency skills and get on the path of self-compassion, recovery and healing.

Professional Trauma

Exposure & Stress Recovery

I guide military and first responders in recovering from their professional experiences and critical incidents. As a battle buddy in the mission to restore their mental health, I help them to mitigate re-experiencing, avoidance and reactivity responses that are still impacting their lives. Learn how to take leave of the past and look forward to a healthier future.

Sexual Assault

Healing The Mind and Body

I help survivors of sexual assault to manifest a greater purpose and reclaim their lives. I help to bridge the gap between the mind and body and update the systems that may still be stuck in past experiences. Survivors will finally be able to create a healthy sense of self, empowered to take on the world.

Grief

Loss & Bereavement Support

I am able to create a peaceful, supportive and compassionate space that allows for the reconnection and continuation of the relationships with those that have passed away. From the loss of a family member, to the death of a pet, learn how to redefine your life after loss, while honoring your emotions, your memories and their stories.

MY APPROACH

Light and Shadow Portrait_edited_edited.jpg

Internal Focusing

Inner Listening

My approach to counseling is informed by a holistic, trauma-informed, internal family systems (IFS) and polyvagal model that gently focuses on the mind-body connection while understanding and caring for our learned behaviors, impulses, and survival modes. This enables clients to restore balance within their nervous system and to reconnect with their "Self" in a healing and meaningful way.

Walk/Run Therapy

Outdoor Movement Therapy

I offer clients a chance to literally move through emotions and process their thoughts by moving their bodies at a pace that feels comfortable.

Whether a fast run or a slow walk, we will work through challenges while regulating brain chemistry, channeling energy and developing a better internal relationship with the support of a green, relaxing environment.

EMDR

Premier Treatment For Trauma

As an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) practitioner, I know this modality can be especially useful in reprocessing events and memories that stick with us and impact our ability to live a peaceful and healthy life. It is helpful in relieving the effects of traumatic events by easing unwanted behaviors and intrusive thoughts.

Creative Expression

Using Creative Arts to Heal

As a level 2 Trauma-informed Expressive Arts Therapist and a level 1 Focus-Oriented Art Therapy (FOAT) practitioner, I find creative means to help clients connect to their subconscious, address fears, regulate emotions, and access their intuition for a calmer, clearer, and more fulfilling life.

Make an appointment today!

“Your journey has molded you for your greater good, and it was exactly what it needed to be. Don't think you've lost time. There is no short-cutting to life. It took each and every situation you have encountered to bring you to the now. And now is right on time.”