Gwen Paulson, LCSW

Gwen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Birth Doula, Reiki provider, and Mom. Her academic and professional focus has been women’s health and wellness for over 15 years. Gwen incorporates her extensive training in perinatal mental health and experienced wisdom to her passion for supporting birthing parents and families. She created Mindful Mama to enhance mental health care for all mamas, provide education and resources, and empower mamas in their parenting journey.

Gwen received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Women’s Studies from the University of Mary Washington in 2010 and went on to complete her Master’s in Social Work with a concentration in Gender Violence Intervention in 2012. After specializing in the field of trauma response and recovery she obtained her Birth Doula training from DONA in 2015 and completed trainings on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders with Postpartum Support of Virginia in 2019 and in 2020 completed comprehensive and advanced trainings on perinatal mental health through Postpartum Support International. 

As a Counselor and Birth Worker, Gwen offers unique knowledge and understanding to support the perinatal time. She has integrated her training and experience as a Birth Doula with her clinical focus of trauma recovery and perinatal mental health in her approach to supporting women and families during the family planning time. ​

Gwen’s clinical approach includes narrative therapy, trauma focused-CBT, internal family systems, attachment, mindfulness, and somatic awareness. She values the mind-body connection in the healing process and integrates a wholistic approach to her practice. ​She is a full spectrum birth advocate.