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Book a Consultation with Paula P. Merucci, LCSW: Trainer. Consultant. Complex Trauma Specialist.

Paula P. Merucci, LCSW, is a nationally respected EMDRIA-Approved Basic and Advanced Trainer, known for her warm, engaging consultation style and her expertise in working with complex trauma, dissociation, and addictions. She offers both individual and group consultation for clinicians who have completed their EMDR Basic Training and are looking to refine their skills, deepen case conceptualization, and stay grounded in fidelity to the 8-phase, 3-pronged EMDR protocol—while adapting it for real-world clinical complexities.

What Makes Paula’s Consultation Unique?

Paula doesn’t just teach EMDR—she lives it. With decades of clinical experience, a deep personal understanding of the healing process, and a passion for integrating Parts Work (IFS), Polyvagal Theory, and neurobiology into trauma care, Paula offers a consultation space that is both compassionate and cutting-edge.

Consultation themes often include:

    •    Identifying and working with protector parts and blocking beliefs

    •    Modifying EMDR protocols for clients with dissociative presentations

    •    Using screening tools like the DES, MID, and ITQ to pace and prepare

    •    Applying working memory taxation and EMDR 2.0 strategies for phobias, OCD, and flashforward fears

    •    Integrating Polyvagal-informed interventions across all EMDR phases

Whether you’re just beginning to use EMDR in your practice, working toward EMDRIA certification, or have been certified for years and want to stay current with the latest research, interweaves, and trauma-informed modifications—Paula brings curiosity, clarity, and clinical wisdom to every session. Her consultation style is collaborative, respectful of your instincts as a therapist, and always focused on honoring both the standard EMDR model and your client’s nervous system.

Learn about the EMDR Career Path with EMDRIA

Extended Learning After Advanced Trainings

If you’ve attended one of Paula’s advanced trainings—on blocking beliefs, dissociation, or integrating EMDR with Parts Work and Polyvagal Theory—you already know how much ground is covered. These trainings are intentionally rich and layered, and it’s common to leave feeling inspired but also a bit overwhelmed. Consultation offers the ideal next step: a structured space to revisit, implement, and integrate what you’ve learned with guidance and support.

Join a community of learning.

At EMDR Chicago Training & Consultation, we believe that trauma healing is sacred work. Paula’s groups are small by design, ensuring that every voice is heard. And because she trains hundreds of clinicians annually, Paula is continually sharing the latest modifications, research, and creative interweaves emerging in our ever-evolving field.

Come with your questions. Leave with clarity, confidence, and tools you can use.

Ready to grow your EMDR skills in a space that honors both the protocol and your client’s parts? Book a consultation with Paula today