Clarissa Attara, PhD

Dr. Attara is a nationally-recognized clinician specializing in trauma, PTSD, addiction recovery, grief counseling, and LGBTQ+ affirming counseling for adolescents (ages 9+), adults, and families. Her work is rooted in the belief that true healing requires addressing both the mind and the body, and she skillfully integrates a wide spectrum of therapeutic approaches to meet clients exactly where they are on their journey.

Training and Modalities
Dr. Attara is certified in and incorporates EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and DBR (Deep Brain Reorienting)—powerful trauma-processing modalities that access the brain and body’s natural capacity to resolve unresolved pain. She is an EMDR Consultant-in-Training. She is trained and actively pursuing certification in EFCT (Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy) - a structured, short-term, evidence-based approach designed to help partners repair relationships, reduce conflict, and build secure attachments.

In addition, she draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness practices, poly-systemic frameworks, and compassion-focused methods. This integrative approach allows her to tailor each session to the unique needs of her clients, fostering deep emotional repair, nervous system regulation, and sustainable transformation. With a grounding in attachment theory, she helps clients explore the core beliefs that shape their experiences—compassionately guiding them to rewrite painful narratives, release long-held shame, and embrace their authentic selves. As she reminds her clients, “the body truly keeps the score,” and healing often begins when those unspoken stories are finally given space to transform.

Who She Serves Best
Dr. Attara is most effective with individuals who are ready to engage in meaningful work, even when it feels difficult. She provides a compassionate, steady presence while offering the challenge and skill-building necessary for lasting change.
Adolescents, adults, and families navigating the effects of trauma, PTSD, or unresolved grief
Individuals in recovery from addiction or cycles of relapse seeking both structure and compassionate accountability
LGBTQ+ youth and adults exploring identity, relationships, or navigating an unsupportive environment
Couples and families working through conflict, communication barriers, or transitions or openness in relationship structures
Those desiring faith-sensitive care, where spirituality and emotional health can be integrated without judgment
Clients prioritizing privacy and continuity through a concierge, private-pay model that ensures personalized attention
High-functioning professionals, executives, athletes, student athletes, creatives, and families seeking meaningful change:
Reclaiming balance post-trauma, burnout, or addiction
Examining attachment dynamics and relationship patterns
Exploring identity, including LGBTQ+ and non-monogamy considerations
Healing family systems and generational wounds

What Clients Appreciate
Dr. Attara is celebrated for her deep curiosity, empathy, and ability to create trust. Endorsed as an outstanding educator in EMDR, peers highlight her “compassionate, diligent” style and safe, skill-centered therapeutic environment.

Ready to Prioritize Yourself?
Whether you’re seeking relief from trauma, clarity in life transitions, or empowerment in relationships, Dr.  Attara offers a compassionate, expert-guided path to profound growth.