Mary Kay Neumann , MSSW, LCSW, EMDR Practitioner

For 25 years I have enjoyed practicing feminist psychotherapy with women, men and couples. My clinical work has been addressing the effects of abuse, incest, sexual and physical assault --- some of which are self-injury, dissociation, anxiety and depression. Many people who come to therapy have endured troublesome childhoods, which can lead to a fragile sense of self worth and deep feelings of shame. Discrimination and oppression can also contribute to a person's difficulty in life. Together with my clients, we explore their personal stories and the way the world around them has shaped their sense of self. Our aim is achieving relief from emotional pain, resolution of trauma and a feeling of empowerment in a troubled and troubling world.

In couples therapy, equity and shared power in the relationship is an important focus. Of particular importance is the physical and emotional safety of both partners, which is fundamental to greater intimacy and satisfaction within the couple.

I have worked extensively with many lesbian women over the past 25 years of my career. I actively support lesbian relationships and seek to provide a caring and open atmosphere for women to feel free to explore and celebrate all aspects of their lives.

EMDR is an integral tool that I use in my practice, for a great many issues. I have witnessed the liberation of a tremendous amount of suffering utilizing EMDR for trauma work. People discover the strength and capacity to heal inside themselves through this powerful and very effective technique. I was certified by the EMDR Institute where I received my Level II training in 1994.

In addition to my life as a therapist, I am also an artist. Art making sustains me in my work as a clinician, and I am moved daily by the courage I witness in my work with clients. Through my art, I seek to express that inspiration. This process has taught me about the power of creativity as a healing tool and as an agent of change.

Scout, my Standard Poodle, was my devoted and passionate co-therapist for nearly 15 years. She joined me in the office every day and exuberantly approached her duties as official greeter and office mascot. She died on December 1, 2009. She will be greatly missed, and her spirit lives on.

Phoebe, my new puppy and therapy dog in training, has joined me in my work. She is a beautiful soul and is learning fast how to be a calming presence as she follows in Scout's footsteps.