Dr. Paula Whitaker began her educational journey as a pastoral ministries student at Huntingdon College in Montgomery, AL. Along the way, God called her toward the counseling ministry to help others apply scripture to their unique personal situations. As part of her doctoral studies, she completed an APA-approved internship at Pine Rest Christian Hospital in Michigan which focused on the application of Christian Theology in the practice of Psychology. 2 Corinthians 5:18 guides Paula's clinical work which she views as working with the Holy Spirit to see people reconciled to themselves, the Lord, and the important people in their lives. During the past 30 years, Paula's work included helping to found Life Connections Christian Counseling Center in Tampa, FL and serving as an adjunct faculty member at USF, UT, and Trinity College of Florida. Most recently, she worked in Student Development as the Director of Counseling, Health, and Wellness for Southeastern University.
In addition to working in the mental health field, Dr. Whitaker has had the joy and privilege of serving on the staff of her local church for the past 17 years, working as the youth director, children's director, school chaplain, and music director--though thankfully not all at the same time! She also enjoyed operating Grace Notes voice and piano studio from her home while raising her four kids with husband, Lee. Dr. Whitaker looks forward to returning to the classroom and joining with her students in research, mental health advocacy, and the ongoing adventure of following Christ.
Education
B.A. in Psychology with a Music minor, The University of Tampa (UT)
M.A. & Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, The University of South Florida (USF)