About | STIR Psychology | Therapy Intensives

ABOUT
STIR PSYCHOLOGY

PAULA GURNETT

Approachable and non-judgemental, Paula Gurnett is not a 'nod-and-smile' therapist. Paula is a Certified Canadian Counsellor and the founder of STIR Psychology, a boutique private practice offering therapy intensives for individuals and couples across Canada. Known for her grounded, deeply compassionate approach, Paula specializes in helping people move through emotional stuckness, relationship challenges, burnout, and trauma with clarity and courage.

Located just outside of Edmonton, Alberta, Paula provides an alternative to traditional weekly counselling by offering 2 to 3 day private therapy intensives that allow for deep, focused work and meaningful breakthroughs... quickly. Her intensives attract clients from across Canada who are looking for accelerated healing and personalized psychological support.

Paula’s approach is rooted in the belief that recovery, hope, and self-determination are always possible - no matter where you’re starting from. She holds space without judgment or agenda, creating a safe environment where clients can reconnect with themselves, uncover patterns, and release what no longer serves them. As a Gottman-informed couples therapist, she also supports partners in rebuilding trust, deepening connection, and transforming their relationships in a matter of days - not months.

Many of Paula’s clients describe their work with her as life-changing. They come to her overwhelmed or unsure of what’s next and often leave with a sense of clarity, empowerment, and genuine relief. Her greatest goal is to help people be true to themselves without abandoning themselves to get there.

Whether you're looking for intensive therapy in Canada or seeking a virtual counselling experience from anywhere in the world, Paula Gurnett and STIR Psychology offer a powerful path toward lasting change.

COUNSELLOR, MA, C.C.C.

Areas of Expertise

Affairs
Anger Management and Conflict
Anxiety
Assertiveness and Boundaries
Away-Working and Its Impact
Codependency
Communication
Coping and Resiliency Skills
Crisis Management
Depression
Domestic Violence
Emotional Disturbance
Family Conflict

Grief
Infidelity
Marital and Premarital
Peer Relationships
Relationship Growth
Relationship Issues
Self-Awareness Advancement
Self-Esteem Building
Stress
Substance Use and Substance Affected
Suicidal Ideation
Trauma
Triggers

Education & Certifications

Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology
Bachelor of Arts in Child & Youth Care
Early Childhood Development Diploma
Substance Use Certificate
SYMBIS Assessment Certified
Gottman Level 3
Certified Brainspotting Consultant, Phases 1-5 & Masterclass
Brainspotting and Addictions
Imagespotting/Harmonic Brain Healing
Changing Lives - One Badge at a Time (for law enforcement and first responders)