Dr. Kristen Pavela, LCSW

Dr. Kristen Pavela is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a clinical substance abuse counselor who holds a doctorate in social work and practices in Wisconsin. With 10 years of clinical experience, she has provided care across a range of settings as a clinical social worker, psychocounselor, and substance abuse counselor. The LCSW credential indicates specialized training and licensure in clinical social work, combined with hands-on experience supporting people through complex challenges.

Her clinical work addresses depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns, relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, anger management, and substance use disorders. She has worked with people affected by domestic violence both as survivors and as individuals who have perpetrated harm, and she has supported many clients who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. Her background in substance abuse counseling informs a practical, recovery-focused approach for those struggling with addiction.

Pavela’s counseling style is described as warm and interactive, grounded in respect, sensitivity, and compassion while avoiding stigmatizing labels. She integrates cognitive behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic ideas, person-centered methods, and strengths-based counseling to create individualized treatment plans. Conversations and interventions are tailored to each person’s unique needs and goals. Although she affirms the courage it takes to pursue change and expresses a desire to support clients, she is not currently accepting new clients.