Grace Elle Gessel, LCSW

Preferred Name: Grace

Online Therapy

About Me

I offer faith-centered EMDR & trauma therapy that meets you exactly where you are in your journey. In a culture that unapologetically centers self, perhaps you're seeking a therapist that instead centers the redemptive relationship with the Savior and the power of the Holy Spirit. Or maybe you're navigating a crisis of faith, common amongst trauma survivors, and you're not sure how you feel about God or where you stand with Him. The peace and clarity you seek is possible for you. I've helped countless women navigate this walk. I offer a compassionate, shame-free space to help you explore, heal, & evolve with grace.

For the past 13 years I have helped women heal from the following:
*Developmental trauma (attachment)
*Relational trauma
*Religious trauma
*Crisis of faith
*Sexual abuse and assault
*Systemic and collective trauma
*The ongoing impacts of trauma, such as:
-Anxiety
-Depression
-Feeling separate from God
-Deconstruction
-Feelings of being lost or aimless
-Struggles or dissatisfaction with relationships
-Lacking a sense of purpose, community, or belonging

I use Christian variations of EMDR and IFS therapy, lead with scripture, and remain biblically faithful always.

Why don't you reach out to me for a consultation? It's a compassion-heavy, judgement-free space. I want you to know that I have not always been a Christian. For 20+ years I was a Buddhist, New Age, yogi, until I had an encounter with Christ that woke me up. I understand multiple worldviews. I know what it's like to be lost and I know what it's like to be found.

Education & Experience

I received a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from Old Dominion University and a Masters of Social Work from Fordham University. I have trained in EMDR, Attachment-Focused EMDR, IFS-informed EMDR, and Christian Faith-Integrated EMDR. I have also completed Levels 1 and 2 of Internal Family Systems Therapy, as well as Christian IFS training.

Specialty Area

  • Abuse/Neglect
  • Anxiety/Panic Attacks
  • Attachment Disorders
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Birth Trauma/Pregnancy Loss
  • Depression
  • Domestic Violence
  • Eating Disorders
  • Family Issues
  • Grief/Loss/Mourning
  • Mood Disorders
  • Phobias
  • Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
  • Race, Culture, Ethnicity Issues
  • Self-Harm
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Somatic Issues
  • Spirituality
  • Stress Management
  • Suicide Risk
  • Survivor's Guilt
  • Traumatic Incident

Population Served

  • Adults
  • First Responders
  • Immigrants
  • LGBTQ+
  • Underserved
  • Veterans/Military

Language

  • English