Leigh Polin

MSW, LCSW

As a therapist I bring creativity, compassion, curiosity and sincerity to all of my sessions. I pride myself in providing quality attuned care. I have over 20 years of experience serving others.

I am an EMDR Certified Therapist trained by the EMDR Institute, accredited by EMDRIA. Additionally, I am an IFS trained therapist through the IFS Institute. IFS and EMDR can help with an array of challenges including, PTSD, depression, and anxiety.

I also utilize complimentary modalities such as Polyvagal Theory, and Mindfulness.

About Me

ABOUT ME

Specialized Training

EMDR Certified Therapist

IFS Level 1

EMDR: https://www.emdr.com/what-is-emdr/#layperson

IFS: IFS is built on the premise that we all have Parts. Protective parts (parts of you that helped you survive what happened) and wounded parts (parts that were impacted by what happened). In addition, IFS believes we all have Self. Think, caretaker and leader of your system. This concept can feel foreign, as many of us are often living in defense (or protector) mode due to the hurts we have experienced. Have you ever woken up and felt calm, centered, and clear, this is an example of being in Self. Imagine if you could operate from this place more often. This is the goal of IFS work to build a Self to Parts relationship that can help to foster inner harmony and healing. Suggested reading No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz

Why both IFS and EMDR?

In Parts language EMDR targets the wounded parts. IFS can help prepare for successful EMDR reprocessing by first working with the protective parts, paving the way for successful EMDR reprocessing.

Additional Theories of Influence & Experience

Mindfulness: Mindfulness is a practice that can assist you in being able to ride the waves of life in a less reactive way. Mindfulness is really about awareness and awareness is what leads to change and growth. Meditation is one way of enhancing mindfulness. Jon Kabat-Zinn, the founder of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction defines mindfulness as “awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally, in the service of self-understanding and wisdom.”

Polyvagal Theory: Polyvagal theory is based on the work of Stephen Porges and Deb Dana. Polyvagal theory helps one learn how to befriend their nervous system instead of fearing it. Often, we can feel that our nervous system is in charge, that we are ruled by our reactive anxious or numb responses. Polyvagal theory gives one a deep understanding of their nervous system, aiding us in seeing that there are many things we can do to manage our reactivity, helping you to live with freedom instead of fear.

Education

MSW Rutgers University, graduated 2004

Professional Affiliations

EMDR International Association (EMDRIA)

National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

The New Jersey Society for Clinical Social Work (NJSCSW)