Meet Pua Naluai
MS, LPC

Pronouns: He/She/They

Focused Population: First Responders, Military Members (Active Duty and Veterans), Older Teens, and Trauma

Specialties: Meaning-centered, Strengths-based, EMDR, Moral injury

Pua Naluai, M.S., LPC is an experienced counselor having served in various roles and agencies. She is currently working to complete her PsyD in Counseling Psychology through Alaska Pacific University. Being placed in leadership roles while in the US Army and being in charge of an inpatient cottage focused on trauma helped Pua to recognize that most people seeking therapy want someone to listen to and validate their stories without judgement. They also want to understand their struggles and seek the relief that comes from overcoming them. Clients are not afraid of facing difficulties if they feel safe enough to do so and have the support of someone who can be there for them. Pua’s approach to therapy is holistic and person-centered with a fundamental goal for clients to feel empowered and attain unconditional self-acceptance. Much of her approach is strengths-based and meaning-centered, to help the client find a sense of purpose that fosters well-being, vitality, and authentic happiness. She utilizes an intuitive approach through therapeutic presence that highlights the client’s values, beliefs, and character strengths. Pua believes the therapeutic alliance is more than just the relationship, it is an exchange of energies and stories that create a unique connection that enhances the healing process for the client. Her hope is to be a secure, sincere, genuine person who can connect with clients through empathy, compassion, and unconditional positive regard with the idea that when we acknowledge our differences, we create an opportunity to connect with and understand each other in new ways. Pua always looks forward to expanding her understanding of others by truly seeing and listening to who they are at their core.  Pua has a passion to work with those who have experienced trauma as well as active duty military, veterans, first responders, law enforcement, and their significant others. She also enjoys working with older adolescents who are in the process of transitioning into adulthood.

Educational Experience:

Brigham Young University – Hawaii, Bachelor of Science in Exercise Sport Science

Colorado Technical University, MBA in Health Care Management

Alaska Pacific University, Master of Science in Counseling Psychology

Alaska Pacific University, PsyD in Counseling Psychology (in progress)

Professional License:  

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Alaska & Virginia