You’ve Come to the Right Place for Real, Lasting Healing
Vera McGrath, LMFT
I know firsthand how early life experiences can shape the way we move through the world as adults. My own childhood was marked by chaos and uncertainty, which left lasting imprints on both my mind and body. In my late teens and early twenties, I began experiencing chronic physical symptoms - my body’s way of responding to long-term stress.
That journey led me on a deep path of healing and self-discovery. I explored many therapeutic approaches, nutritional strategies, and wellness practices - some helpful, others less so. But the most profound shift came through attachment-based and body-focused EMDR therapy. These methods helped me finally make sense of my body’s distress signals and begin to heal in a way that felt aligned and authentic.
As a parent and a professional, I understand how overwhelming it can be to juggle responsibilities while carrying the weight of old wounds. I also know how hard it is to find a therapist who truly listens - without judgement, without minimizing.
Today, I bring that understanding into my work at Body Wisdom Therapy. My mission is to offer a space that feels safe, accepting, and deeply understanding - to walk alongside you as you navigate your own healing journey. You don’t have to do this alone.
We start with understanding you - fully
I take the time to explore your unique experiences, challenges, and life circumstances so that therapy is grounded in what truly matters to you.
Therapy tailored to your needs
I take a direct and engaged approach. Drawing from science-backed methods and years of clinical experience, I craft an approach that supports your specific goals, values, and needs.
You don’t have to explain yourself
You’ll never be asked to justify your feelings, preferences, or decisions. This is a space where your truth is respected and welcomed.
Grounded guidance
I bring both professional expertise and personal insight into our work together, offering care that is informed, compassionate, and real.
Tools that work in real life
My goal is to help you feel better - not just in theory, but day to day. You’ll gain practical tools and strategies you can start using right away.
Support for becoming YOU, again
Whether you’re trying to heal from the past, reconnect in your relationships, set better boundaries, or feel more joy, we’ll walk that path together.
What to expect if we work together
Many of my clients come to therapy feeling exhausted or unsure where to start - but ready for something to change. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in burnout, disconnected from yourself or others, or carrying the weight of past trauma, you’re not alone.
Education
M.A. in Counseling Psychology - National University, San Diego, CA
Graduate Degree in Psychology (Diplom-Psycholgin) - University of Münster, Germany
Training & Certifications
EMDR Therapy
EMDRIA Certified Therapist
EMDR Basic Training with EMDR Institute
EMDR Supplement Certification with Beyond Healing Center
Advanced EMDRIA Training: Easy Ego States Interventions by Robin Shapiro
Treating the Dissociative Spectrum with Beyond Healing Center
EMDR with the Body in Mind: Beyond Healing Center
Attachment-Focused EMDR Workshop with Practicum with Laurel Parnell, PhD By Parnell Institute
Somatic Therapy
Somatic Integration and Processing (SIP) I and II with Beyond Healing Center
SomatoSymbolic Processing (SSP) Body in Mind Training Course and Mentorship at Beyond Healing Center
Perinatal Mental Health
Maternal Mental Health Certificate Training by Postpartum Support International
Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychotherapy by Postpartum Support International
Perinatal OCD by Postpartum Health Alliance
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD with Cognitive Behavior Institute
CBT / REBT Advanced Certificate Albert Ellis Institute
Professional Memberships
Ready to take the next step? Let’s talk
Contact me to schedule a free consultation or ask any questions.