Paula Grüner-Schmall

Emotional difficulties rarely arise in isolation. They often develop within the context of our life experiences, relationships, and the ways we have learned to adapt to what we have been through. Some people come to therapy with a clear concern; others simply feel that something is not quite right, even if it is difficult to put into words.

Therapy offers a space to explore these experiences, understand the patterns that may be shaping the present, and discover new ways of relating to yourself, to others, and to life's challenges. Alongside thoughts and emotions, the therapeutic process also values bodily experience as an important source of information about how we respond to what we have lived through. Paying attention to these different dimensions can open new possibilities for understanding and change.

The pace and focus of therapy are adapted to each person's individual needs. At times, the priority may be finding support during a difficult period; at others, developing a deeper understanding of yourself and fostering lasting change that allows for greater flexibility and well-being.

My professional experience spans hospitals, specialised healthcare services, community mental health settings and private practice. Throughout my career, I have worked closely within interdisciplinary teams, supporting individuals and families facing psychological difficulties, health-related challenges and major life transitions.

My work with adults has included psychosocial care at Krankenhaus der Barmherzigen Brüder in Vienna, where I was involved in the assessment, treatment and psychological support of deaf adults and their families, as well as facilitating a therapeutic group for people experiencing depression. My experience also includes community mental health work at CESFAM Karol Wojtyła in Chile and private practice.

An important part of my professional trajectory has also involved working with children, adolescents and families in specialised clinical and healthcare settings. These experiences have deepened my understanding of human development, relationships and the influence of early life experiences, perspectives that continue to inform and enrich my psychotherapeutic work with adults.

I hold a Master of Science (M.Sc. ) in Psychology from Universidad Diego Portales (Chile), formally recognised in Austria, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology from the same university.

My clinical training includes the University Expert Programme in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) at Universidad Fernando Pessoa Canarias, complemented by specialised seminars with Russ Harris; DBT Skills Training at AWP Berlin and Freiburg; Sensorimotor Psychotherapy at the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute with Esther Pérez; and clinical applications of Polyvagal Theory through professional seminars with Deb Dana.