Stephanie Patak

Stephanie Patak is the Director of Clinical Services at UPC and a trauma-focused clinician. With over five years of experience, she specializes in helping adolescents and adults heal from trauma, including assault, abuse, and complex or prolonged stressful experiences. She also has a particular passion for working with neurodivergent adolescents and adults through a neuro-informed and neuro-affirming lens.

​

At the heart of Stephanie’s work is the belief that meaningful therapy begins with genuine connection. Her goal is to create a space where clients feel heard, seen, believed, and accepted without judgment. She understands that trauma can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsafe in their own bodies, and she approaches the healing process with compassion, patience, and respect for each client’s individual experience.

​

Stephanie uses a neurobiologically informed approach to help clients better understand their responses to trauma, support nervous system regulation, and work toward meaningful and lasting recovery. Her work emphasizes safety, empowerment, and measurable progress and incorporates evidence-based and trauma-focused approaches including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Ketamine-Enhanced EMDR, and Ketamine-Enhanced Psychotherapy. She also integrates traditional talk therapy and expressive approaches based on each client’s needs and goals.

​

Stephanie earned her Master of Science in Counseling from Southern Methodist University, where her training included family and intimate partner violence, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and the psychology of addictions. She pursued additional specialized training in psychological first aid, sexual trauma, and sexual assault survivor advocacy.

​

Whether a client is processing a traumatic experience, navigating the effects of chronic stress, exploring neurodivergence, or simply trying to feel more like themselves again, Stephanie strives to meet them where they are. Her goal is not only to help clients cope with what they have experienced, but to help them feel more empowered, connected, and confident as they move forward.