Mercedes Cusick, MA, LMFT

I specialize in trauma, addiction, and self-esteem issues and have helped hundreds of clients just like you find the path and life they have always wanted. I am a CERTIFIED EMDR Therapist offering EMDR traditional services (50-mins), working intensively (75-100 mins), and intensive (1/2 day to multiple days) services to address your needs and goals.

I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist, Certified in EMDR, focusing on trauma issues and mental health. I am incredibly passionate about trauma therapy as I have seen firsthand how transformative the approach can be for clients, especially those with complex trauma. I have experience incorporating ego state work, polyvagal theory, and attachment into my EMDR practice, which comprehensively conceptualizes overall functioning and help you achieve lasting relief. With guidance, I can lead you to a deeper understanding of yourself, allowing you to access your strengths, develop new and healthy perspectives, experience emotional healing, and enrich your relationships, and living life with enhanced purpose, joy, and value.

After getting sober in 2007, I have dedicated my life to helping people impacted by trauma and addiction. I have over thirteen years of experience working in residential treatment, outpatient treatment, transitional living, sober livings, homeless shelters, and counseling centers. I have helped hundreds of clients, first starting at Tarzana Treatment Center, Malibu Life Recovery Center, Renaissance Malibu, Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission, San Fernando Valley Counseling Center, and recent years at The Villa Treatment Center.

I bring vast experience as a clinical trauma therapist, EMDR clinician, and addiction treatment to my practice. I received my Bachelor’s from Loyola Marymount University, Addiction Counselor Certification from CAADE, and my Masters of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy – Trauma Specialization from Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena. Also, I am a certified EMDR therapist through EMDRIA. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a therapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress resulting from disturbing life experiences. It rewires the brain establishing new adaptive neural pathways which help people become unstuck and move forward in their lives.

Starting therapy takes courage, and I honor your decision to start by reaching out to me.