Clinical Psychologist · Trauma & Grief Specialist
Healing from Trauma & Grief — With Compassion and Expertise
Specialized grief informed psychotherapy for trauma, loss, and life transitions. Specialist in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and EMDR Virtual sessions available in most states.
About Dr. Guadagnoli
A trusted guide through life's most difficult moments
I am Dr. Kristi Guadagnoli — a licensed clinical psychologist with 20 years of experience helping people move through some of life's most painful moments.
My work centers on trauma and grief, and I bring both deep clinical expertise and genuine human warmth to every session. Whether you are carrying the weight of a recent loss, the echoes of past trauma, or suffering that is difficult to name — you do not have to navigate it alone.
Areas of Specialization
Grief and trauma take many forms. Whatever you are carrying, you deserve skilled, compassionate support.
How I Can Help
Specialized, evidence-based care for the experiences that shape us most deeply.
Trauma Therapy
Trauma leaves its mark in ways that can feel impossible to escape. My approach draws on two of the most well-researched therapies available — tailored to where you are and what you need.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT helps you identify and shift the thought patterns and beliefs that keep you stuck after trauma. By exploring the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, CBT builds practical coping skills and fosters lasting emotional resilience.
Learn about my approach
EMDR Therapy
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) works directly with how the brain stores traumatic memories. Using bilateral stimulation, EMDR helps reprocess painful experiences so they lose their emotional charge — often in fewer sessions than traditional therapy.
Learn about EMDR intensivesWhat is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
EMDR is an evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals process traumatic or emotionally distressing experiences. Sometimes painful experiences are not fully processed by the brain and nervous system, causing memories, emotions, and physical reactions to feel emotionally stuck. When this happens, distress can continue long after the experience has passed.
EMDR helps the brain and nervous system reprocess painful experiences so they feel less overwhelming. Using guided bilateral stimulation, EMDR supports the brain's natural healing process and may reduce symptoms related to trauma, grief, anxiety, and emotional distress. EMDR can also help develop healthier, more adaptive beliefs about oneself and life experiences.
EMDR does not require individuals to describe painful experiences in detail in order for healing to occur. Therapy is approached thoughtfully and collaboratively, creating a safe and supportive space for healing and emotional restoration.
EMDR Therapy for Loss and Grief
Loss and grief can feel overwhelming, especially after sudden, traumatic, or deeply life-changing loss. While grief is a natural response to loss, some individuals remain emotionally stuck in painful memories, anxiety, guilt, emotional numbness, or ongoing distress that does not ease with time. Research suggests EMDR can be especially helpful for trauma and prolonged grief.
Healing does not mean forgetting. EMDR therapy can help individuals process painful experiences while remaining connected to the love and memories they carry forward.
"Over 30 randomized controlled trials support EMDR as an effective treatment for PTSD — often producing meaningful results in fewer sessions than traditional therapy."
Healing from Anywhere
Virtual sessions — just as effective, far more accessible
You should not have to choose between getting help and fitting it into your life. I offer secure, confidential telehealth sessions that bring the same quality of care to wherever you are. Whether you are across the state or simply more comfortable at home, virtual therapy makes healing possible on your terms.
- Secure, HIPAA-compliant video sessions
- Available to clients across the country via PSYPACT
- Same evidence-based care as in-person
- Flexible scheduling to fit your life
PSYPACT Authorized Provider
Through PSYPACT, I am authorized to provide telehealth therapy to clients in participating states across the country — not just Virginia.
See which states I can see you in ↗Take the First Step
Reaching out is often the hardest part. I am here to make it as easy as possible. Let us talk about what you are going through and how I can help.
Confidential consultations available. Virtual sessions nationwide.
"Healing is not linear — but it is possible."