Kim Padula, LCSW

Kim Padula is a Tennessee licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with 26 years of experience. She helps people who are dealing with stress, anxiety, mood concerns including bipolar and depression, addictions, grief, low self-esteem, relationship strain, and anger. She also supports those facing career pressure, caregiving strain, and compassion fatigue. Sessions are framed around practical goals rather than labels.

Her style is straightforward and strength-based. She looks at what a person already does well and what gets in the way. Early work focuses on reviewing life history and key relationships that shaped current patterns. From there she and the client agree on objectives and a plan to address them.

Techniques come from client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral approaches, and dialectical behavior strategies among others. She uses these methods to help people notice unhelpful thoughts, try different coping skills, and build routines that reduce reactive anger and overwhelm. Work can include talking through recent problems, practicing skills, and checking progress.

Kim trained in psychology at Vanderbilt University and completed a master’s in clinical social work. Her background gives her a long view of how problems develop and how small, steady changes can add up. She describes therapy as a team effort where accountability and perspective matter.

People who choose her often want clear steps, a plan that can be revisited, and practical ways to respond differently to life’s stresses. Before booking, confirm current session options and any scheduling details.

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