Alissa Paulison

Alissa Paulison is a Licensed, Board-Certified, and Nationally Credentialed Art Therapist and Social Worker with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. She holds dual Master’s degrees in Art Therapy from New York University and Social Work from Rutgers University.

Alissa has provided comprehensive therapeutic services to adults, adolescents, children, couples, families, and groups across diverse settings. Her background includes extensive work in inpatient psychiatric care, with specialized experience in forensic and dementia units. She has also supported clients in supportive housing, schools, shelters, and juvenile justice facilities. Internationally, she contributed her expertise in Florence, Italy, where she facilitated Art Therapy sessions in an adult day program for individuals with specialized needs.

In addition to her clinical work, Alissa serves as the Government Affairs Co-Chair on the New Jersey Art Therapy Association Board, where she advocates for the advancement and recognition of the profession. She is also an accomplished professional artist who live paints at events, accepts commissions, and sells her original artwork, including paintings, prints, and wearable art.

Grounded in client-centered and strength-based approaches, Alissa’s practice emphasizes self-reflection, personal agency, and healing. Her commitment to fostering growth and resilience has defined her work across clinical, community, creative, and cross-cultural environments.