When talking helps,
but doesn't quite heal,
I offer a way forward.
Precise, focused support for trauma, anxiety, and patterns that feel hard to break. I use EMDR and trauma-focused therapy, with music therapy when it fits, to help you move beyond what words alone can't shift.
About Me
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor, EMDR-certified trauma specialist, and board-certified music therapist. My approach is structured and supportive, helping you move forward in a way that feels grounded and aligned with your goals. I bring both clinical training and a background in the arts, informing a style of therapy that is precise, creative, and deeply attentive.
Sessions are available in person at my office in Philadelphia, or via secure telehealth across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Ohio.
What I Help With
● Trauma & PTSD
You may feel stuck in the past, on edge, or emotionally shut down. We’ll use EMDR and focused trauma work to help your system reset without having to relive everything.
● Anxiety & Chronic Stress
Your thoughts race, your body won’t settle, and rest feels out of reach. Our work focuses on restoring steadiness, calm, and a deeper sense of internal control.
● Shame & Self-Criticism
You question your worth, even when things appear fine. Therapy can loosen the grip of self-judgment and help you develop a more stable, grounded sense of yourself.
● Relationship Patterns
You may find yourself caught in the same roles: over-giving, withdrawing, or expecting rejection. We’ll explore the deeper origins of these patterns and work to shift them.
● Grief & Loss
Even if time has passed, the weight of loss can linger. We’ll work to metabolize the pain so it no longer keeps you stuck.
● Life Transitions
Major changes — chosen or not — can leave you disoriented. We’ll work to clarify what’s shifting, and support you in finding your footing.
My Approach
Grounded. Responsive.
Focused on what works.
At the center of my work is EMDR, a structured, evidence-based method that helps the nervous system process what words alone often can't. I also integrate trauma-informed talk therapy and, when useful, music-based interventions to support your goals.
My approach is meant to move beyond surface insight and reach the emotional, physical, and unconscious systems where trauma is often held.
This work is collaborative and steady. We move at a pace that feels safe, with the aim of progress that is deep and lasting. Change that you can carry with you in daily life.
You don’t have to relive every painful memory to heal.
What Clients Say
I wasn’t trying to "get in touch with my feelings". I just wanted to stop reacting to things I couldn’t control. James met me where I was. He was direct, respectful, and clear. I left sessions feeling more capable, not more confused.
— Brian, Philadelphia
Other therapists helped me recognize my patterns. James helped me change them.
— Julie, Bryn Mawr
Let's Talk
I offer a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation. No pressure, no obligation. Just a chance to talk and see what you need.
Sessions are $200. I’m an out-of-network provider, and many clients receive partial reimbursement through their insurance. I’m happy to walk you through how that works during the consultation.
James Lavino
FEATURED IN:
