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Karen Sussan is now an EMDR Certified Therapist™

Karen
Sussan
LMHC
Psychotherapy for Healing, Growth, & Transformation.
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The Body Remembers: The Link Between Childhood Trauma and Autoimmune Disease
As a trauma therapist, I see a trend that often surprises clients. People come in, seeking help for stress, depression, and anxiety. During initial sessions, almost as an aside, they may mention they have chronic fatigue, unexplained pain, or an autoimmune diagnosis. Then, usually, as we explore their histories, the trend appears: their childhoods have included experiences of adversity, neglect, mis attuned parents, or emotional di stress; experiences that can reverberate
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Dec 2, 20254 min read


Why We Can’t Stop Doomscrolling (and What It Might Be Telling Us)
It usually starts innocently enough. I tell myself I’ll just check the news for five minutes. Forty minutes later, I’m still scrolling—tired, uneasy, and not even sure what I’ve been looking for. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The habit has a name now: doomscrolling. The term first appeared around 2018 and became widely used during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, as people sought to stay informed amid uncertainty. I think of doomscrolling as the digita
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Nov 10, 20253 min read


When The World Feels Like It's Falling Apart: Collective Trauma and EMDR
Lately, I’ve been working with more people than ever, including new parents, professionals, teachers, and young adults who are struggling in ways that are hard to put into words. They’re anxious, tense, and emotionally drained. And often, it’s not just about what’s happening in their own lives. It’s the world that feels like too much. Whether it’s the news of military conflict, natural disasters, or political chaos, these events don’t just live on a screen. They land in our b
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Oct 28, 20253 min read


Boredom Is Good for You
When my daughter was a toddler, she sometimes approached me and said, “Mommy, I’m bored.” My answer? “Good!” At the time, it felt a...
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Oct 3, 20253 min read


From Neglect to Overprotection: How Trauma Changes Shape Across Generations
I’ve worked with a wide range of clients, including new parents, professionals, and adult children of aging parents, and I’ve noticed...
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Aug 13, 20254 min read


A Mile in Their Moccasins
You’ve probably heard the expression, “Don’t judge a person until you have walked a mile in their shoes.” Well, that is not the way I...
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Jul 28, 20252 min read


The Micro-Traumas of Growing Up Gen X: Why EMDR Can Help You Make Sense of a Happy Childhood That Still Hurts
Many Gen Xers describe their childhoods as pretty good on the surface. There were bikes, cartoons, and a sense of independence. But now,...
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Jun 18, 20253 min read


Deep Brain Reorienting: The Trauma Psychotherapy for the 21st Century
A Personal Dive into DBR I’m currently pursuing certification in Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR). Why now? Because, in both research and...
Karen Sussan, LMHC
May 21, 20253 min read


EMDR and Pregnancy-Related Mental Health: Finding Healing Through Compassionate Support
I’ve been working with several women recently who are either pregnant or have just given birth.
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Apr 7, 20253 min read


Talking to Your Therapist About Embarrassing Topics: How to Get Past the Awkwardness
Bringing up something deeply personal in therapy can feel intimidating.
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Mar 14, 20253 min read


Making the Most of Your First Free Consultation with a New Therapist
Taking the first step toward therapy is a big decision, and finding the right therapist can make all the difference. A free consultation...
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Feb 26, 20253 min read


I'm Not Superman
One common superpower among therapists is knowing how all too human we are.
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Feb 24, 20252 min read


Navigating the Journey: How to Thoughtfully Conclude Your Therapy
Ending therapy can feel like a major transition, whether you've achieved your goals or feel it's time to move forward independently....
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Feb 4, 20254 min read


The Courage to Heal: A Question for Prospective Therapy Seekers
Our society does not give much credence to feelings or human vulnerabilities. Plenty of us have learned to bury or avoid messy feelings...
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Dec 23, 20241 min read


Healing Holiday-Related Trauma: How Therapy Can Help You Find Peace During the Season
The holiday season often brings joy, connection, and celebration. However, for those who have experienced trauma, this time of year can...
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Dec 9, 20243 min read


Healing Family and Attachment Wounds: Exploring Trauma in Sibling and Family Relationships
Understanding Family Dynamics and Attachment Wounds For many of us, family is our first and most influential connection, shaping our...
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Nov 19, 20243 min read


Overcoming Dental Anxiety with EMDR Therapy
Dental anxiety is a common issue affecting many individuals, often leading to avoidance of necessary dental care. You're not alone if...
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Oct 2, 20243 min read


Does Your Therapist Have to Be of the Same Religion as You?
When searching for a therapist, it’s natural to wonder whether they should share your religious beliefs.
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Sep 27, 20243 min read


More Blue
Often touted as “magic,” our increasing understanding of neuroscience may indicate otherwise.
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Aug 2, 20242 min read


Understanding Mindfulness and Its Role in Healing Trauma
In today's world, the word "mindfulness" is associated with a sense of peace and tranquility. However, mindfulness goes much deeper and...
Karen Sussan, LMHC
Jul 26, 20243 min read
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