Paula Smith, LCSW

Experienced mental health professional

Provides online counseling through BetterHelp

At a glance

Paula is an experienced, licensed Mental Health Professional who specializes in affordable online therapy offered through our partner, BetterHelp.

FSA/HSA accepted
Great news, Paula is accepting new clients!: She is normally fully-booked.
Offers Telehealth visits
Licensed in Oklahoma

More about Paula

4 years' experience
Female
LCSW

I'm a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. My work centers on helping clients navigate addiction, relationship complexities, grief, and self-esteem concerns with compassion and authenticity.

I bring a deep commitment to affirming LGBTQ+ identities and experiences, and I'm passionate about creating space for conversations around sexuality, gender identity, and alternative relationship structures. I work with clients exploring polyamory, BDSM, and other non-traditional relationship dynamics in a nonjudgmental, respectful way.

My expertise extends to trauma-informed care, including support for survivors of sexual assault and abuse. I also work with individuals facing life transitions—divorce, career changes, midlife reflection, and end-of-life concerns—as well as those managing panic, anxiety, and co-occurring challenges.

I'm particularly attuned to the experiences of marginalized communities and the impact of prejudice and discrimination. I work with military personnel, first responders, caregivers, and those navigating multicultural identities and concerns.

My approach is person-centered and grounded in genuine connection. I believe in meeting you where you are, honoring your unique story, and collaborating with you toward meaningful change. I'm here to support your journey with care, curiosity, and respect.

Specialties

Addictions LGBT Issues Relationship issues Grief Self-esteem Aging and geriatric issues Attachment issues BDSM, kink, and alternative sex culture Blended family issues Caregiver issues and stress Co-morbidity Codependency Commitment issues Communication problems Control issues Divorce and separation Drug and alcohol addiction First responder issues Gender dysphoria Guilt and shame HIV / AIDS Hospice and end-of-life counseling Infidelity Isolation / loneliness Jealousy Life purpose Midlife crisis Veteran and Armed Forces Issues Mood disorders Multicultural concerns Panic disorder and panic attacks Polyamory / non-monogamous relationships Prejudice and discrimination Process addiction (porn, exercise, gambling) Self-harm Self-love Sexual assault and abuse Sexuality Workplace issues Young adult issues

Insurance Accepted

Cigna

Licenses

Paula Smith's National Provider Identifier (NPI) is 1316691678.

LCSW · Oklahoma · 21385 · Renews December 2026

About online counseling

Affordable.: Pay a low flat fee.
Convenient.: Do it at your own time and at your own pace. Communicate whenever you feel it's needed.
Available now.: There is no waiting list and no calls to make. Simply fill out a short questionnaire and send your first message.

Online counseling, sometimes called teletherapy, refers to talk therapy delivered remotely through digital platforms, such as video calls, phone calls, or chat. It can be a great option for people who face barriers to traditional face-to-face therapy, such as those living in remote areas, individuals with mobility issues, or people with busy schedules that make it difficult to attend in-person sessions.

Teletherapy also offers greater convenience and flexibility, allowing clients to access care from the comfort of their homes. Research shows that the treatment outcomes with online counseling are often just as effective as with traditional therapy, providing a viable alternative for individuals seeking mental health support.

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Frequently asked questions

Does Paula Smith offer telehealth visits?

Yes. Paula Smith works with clients by exchanging messages, chatting live, speaking over the phone, or video conferencing based on what works for the client at that particular time.

What language(s) does Paula Smith speak?

Paula Smith speaks English.

How many years of experience does Paula Smith have?

Paula Smith has 4 years of experience.

Where is Paula Smith licensed to practice?

Paula Smith is licensed to practice in Oklahoma.

Does Paula Smith accept FSA/HSA?

Yes, Paula Smith accepts FSA/HSA meaning you can pay for sessions with your pre-tax healthcare dollars. Every year hundreds of thousands of people use their FSA/HSA to pay for therapy.

Does Paula Smith accept insurance?

Yes, Paula Smith accepts Cigna.

Does Paula Smith accept clients outside of the United States?

No, Paula Smith does not accept clients outside of the United States.

Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Numerous studies support the effectiveness of online platforms in facilitating life changes. For instance, research published by JMIR Publications, conducted by teams from the University of Berkeley, UCSF, and SF General Hospital, found that "users of BetterHelp experienced significantly reduced depression symptom severity after engaging with the platform."

How can I communicate with Paula Smith?

Paula Smith can be engaged in any one of four ways: (1) Exchanging messages, (2) chatting live, (3) speaking over the phone, or (4) video conferencing. You can use different ways at different times as you wish, based on your needs, availability, and convenience.

How do I get started with Paula Smith?

Just tap the CHAT NOW button or tap here: A new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation.

Mental health conditions are real, common, and treatable.

And recovery is possible.

When you tap CHAT NOW a new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation.

FSA/HSA eligible