Arezou Paksima, LCSW, a trauma, anxiety, and EMDR therapist in Durham, North Carolina.

Healing Begins with Feeling Understood

My path to becoming a therapist wasn't a straight line. After experiencing the healing that therapy made possible in my own life, I left my first career to become a therapist. I wanted to offer others the same experience of feeling truly seen, understood, and supported.

Because of my own experience, I never lose sight of how much courage it takes to ask for help.

I believe meaningful therapy begins with a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative relationship. Together, we'll explore your experiences with curiosity and compassion, helping you better understand yourself, heal what's keeping you stuck, and move toward a life that feels more authentic and aligned with who you are.

Why I Do This Work

High-quality therapy requires more than a license—it requires an ongoing commitment to learning.

I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Drawing from approaches including EMDR, parts work, somatic therapy, mindfulness, and attachment-focused therapy, I tailor each session to support meaningful, lasting change.

Education & Training


My education, licensure, and advanced training provide the clinical foundation for our work together. Every session is thoughtfully tailored to your unique experiences and goals.

Education 🎓

Master of Social Work (MSW)
Mental Health Specialization
Silberman School of Social Work, Hunter College May 2013

Master of Public Administration (MPA-ESP)
Environmental Science Program
School of International and Public Affairs, Columbia University May 2006

Licensure 🪪

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

North Carolina
License #: CO12569

Advanced Training🌿

Attachment-Focused EMDR

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy

Advanced Trauma & Somatics