Paul Smerz, Ph.D.

For more than 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping couples strengthen their relationships, deepen their understanding of one another, and rediscover emotional connection. 

My work is grounded in warmth, empathy, and a genuine respect for each couple’s unique story. I believe that meaningful change grows from insight, trust, and collaboration,and I strive to create a space where both partners feel seen, heard, and supported.

My professional background combines decades of hands-on clinical experience with psychoanalytic training. This training allows me to go beyond surface-level communication patterns, helping couples uncover the deeper emotional and relational dynamics that shape their interactions. By exploring these underlying processes, my clients gain skills for better communication and conflict management, and new ways of experiencing intimacy, empathy, and shared understanding.

Throughout my career, I’ve helped couples navigate a wide range of challenges, from recurring conflict and disconnection to major life transitions and rebuilding trust after loss or betrayal. 

My approach integrates compassion with insight, offering both practical guidance and meaningful emotional growth. As I continue to mature in both my life and my work, I find myself drawing upon a deeper fund of wisdom and perspective.  My passion for working with couples only deepens with time, and I believe that committed relationships hold the potential for transformation, helping individuals and couples grow in self-awareness, empathy, and love.  I’m continually inspired by the courage couples bring to this work and honored to support them in creating more authentic, fulfilling relationships.

I hold a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Kentucky and Diplomate Status as a Jungian Psychoanalyst from the Jung Institute of Chicago.