Petra Schweitzer, LCSW
Petra Schweitzer, LCSW
I come to this work with deep reverence for the ways people have learned to cope and survive. I believe that even the patterns that may no longer serve us often begin as meaningful and necessary responses to the circumstances in which we find ourselves. Those circumstances may include relational trauma and the chronic stress of marginalization and identity-based oppression, all of which can shape our lives, our relationships, and our sense of self.
My approach to the work of therapy is grounded in the belief that the relationship we build together in the therapy space can itself be an important part of healing. With compassion and humor, I create a space where you can feel safe to be curious about yourself, to explore experiences that may be difficult to put into words, and to develop a deeper understanding of the patterns and behaviors that have helped you survive. I believe that with the right support and the courage to take the next step, change becomes not only possible, but inevitable.
Outside the therapy room, I enjoy being in nature, spending time with family and community, and curling up on the couch with a good book and my cats, Calcifer and Clementine.
It would be my honor to support you on your path to healing.
Books by Dr. Greenwald
- EMDR in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, 1999, Northvale, NJ: Jason Aronson.
- Child Trauma Handbook, 2005, New York: Haworth.
- EMDR Within a Phase Model of Trauma-Informed Treatment, (2007). New York: Haworth.
- Treating Problem Behaviors, (2009). New York: Routledge.
- Progressive Counting, (2013). New York: Routledge.
- A Fairy Tale (comic book, with artist Sal Emi Link). (2007). Greenfield, MA: Child Trauma Institute.
- The Child Abuser’s Secret Book of Tricks (comic book, with artist J. Rettun). (2012). Northampton, MA: Trauma Institute & Child Trauma Institute.
Now off press:Â Slaying the Dragon: Overcoming Life’s Challenges and Achieving Your Goals
Teaching & Training
Dr. Greenwald offers the Trauma Institute & Child Trauma Institute training programs, including in-depth trauma training for mental health professionals and others (judges, teachers, caseworkers, line staff, parents, etc.) who work with trauma-exposed children, teens, and adults.
TICTI
The Trauma Institute & Child Trauma Institute (TICTI) is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization that provides training, consultation, information, and resources for those who work with trauma-exposed children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Greenwald founded CTI in 2002 in order to more widely disseminate high-quality training programs on trauma treatment and EMDR. The Trauma Institute (TI) name was added in 2008 to convey the full range of our activities, which apply to adults as well as kids. TICTI has a growing faculty of highly qualified supervisors and trainers. Our website provides information and resources to the professional community and the general public, and averages over 60,000 hits per month.
EMDR
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is the most efficient of the well established research-supported treatments for trauma and loss. Dr. Greenwald is a pioneer and leading authority on EMDR, and the recipient of two major awards by the EMDR International Association. He is the author of several books on EMDR, including EMDR in Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy (1999) (translated into German and Italian; Using EMDR With Children, (translated into Spanish); and the text book, EMDR Within a Phase Model of Trauma-Informed Treatment. Dr. Greenwald provides training and consultation for therapists, researchers, and agencies internationally.
Progressive Counting
Progressive Counting (PC) is a newer trauma treatment developed by Dr. Greenwald, based on the counting method, that so far appears to be well tolerated by clients, as effective as EMDR, more efficient, and relatively easy for therapists to learn. PC’s research support is growing.
Intensive Trauma-Focused Therapy
Dr. Greenwald is among the pioneers in developing intensive trauma-focused therapy, and TICTI is a leading provider. Intensive trauma-focused therapy has been found to be as effective as the same treatment approach delivered in conventional weekly sessions, while the intensive model yields very quick results, reduces dropout, and reduces total treatment hours.
Psychology Practice and Consulting
- Brief/intensive treatment or consultation in a private intensive therapy retreat. For individuals, couples, or children/teens with their parent(s).
- Expert Services including trauma-informed evaluation of adults, children, teens, and families; also evaluation of other mental health professionals’ work.
- Consultation for therapists, agencies, programs, or institutions.
Dr. Greenwald’s therapy practice is affiliated with TICTI.
Take the Next Step
Contact us for a free phone consultation, to schedule a therapy retreat, or to learn more about this unique healing opportunity.