Elisa Toha, LMSW
Heart-centered trauma work, backed by science
Hi, my name is Elisa.
I am a trauma therapist based in NYC. I’ve spent the last decade studying the top evidence-based trauma therapies.
I believe we all have a natural tendency toward healing and an inner space of grounded, compassionate wisdom. Trauma blocks our ability to connect with that inner Self.
As a therapist, I love holding space for people as they make that journey toward reconnection.
My Approach
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EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a treatment that can address conditions caused by trauma, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and phobias.
The goal of EMDR therapy is to facilitate the brain's natural healing process, enabling individuals to effectively process traumatic events, reduce emotional distress, and promote personal growth and healing.
This technique works by stimulating both sides of the brain through eye movements, tapping, or sound, while reprocessing distressing memories or experiences. Clients typically experience a reduction in the vividness and emotion surrounding traumatic memories.
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Internal Family Systems
Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is a treatment that has been shown to help heal physical and emotional stress due to trauma. This approach operates from the framework that we all have inner parts that are forced from their valuable states into extreme roles within us.
The goal is to help clients access “Self” so they can understand and heal their wounded and protective parts, which can improve relationships with others and increase feelings of compassion, confidence, calm and connectedness.
It is a non-pathologizing approach that has been used to address a range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and eating disorders.
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Sensorimotor Psychotherapy
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP) is a body-centered approach that aims to treat the somatic symptoms of unresolved trauma. By discovering and changing habitual physical patterns, SP helps with somatic, emotional and cognitive integration. It can bridge the gap when traditional “talk therapy” has not helped.
The goal is to help clients develop the resources to self-regulate their affect and move out of the fight/flight/freeze response to become less reactive.
SP addresses trauma and attachment related issues such as anxiety, difficulty concentrating, post-traumatic stress, relationship wounds, and persistent negative thoughts.
Professional Information
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Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW, License Number: 101820)
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Bachelor of Arts - New York University, Magna Cum Laude
Masters of Social Work - Fordham University (Child and Adolescent Trauma Program)
Two Year Post-Masters Program - Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy (Trauma Studies)
One Year Post-Masters Live Clinical Program- The Ackerman Institute (Couples and Family Therapy)
Post-Masters Certificate - New York University (Child and Family Therapy)
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I am a lifelong learner - since I graduated I have been trained in many evidence-based trauma modalities including:
EMDR (EMDRIA-approved training)
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Level 2 - Fall 2024)
Internal Family Systems - Advanced Training through Internal Family Systems Counseling Association (Stepping Stones & Stepping Deeper). IFS Level 1 - February 2025
Dr. Phil Manfield’s FLASH Technique Training
Dr. Laurel Parnell's Attachment-Focused EMDR
DeTUR Urge Reduction Protocol for Addictions and Dysfunctional Behaviors with AJ Popky
EMDR Therapy with Eating Disorders - EMDRIA
EMDR as an Intersectional Approach in Disordered Eating Treatment - EMDR of the Pikes
EMDR Therapy, Addiction and Recovery with Hope Payson
Ego State Interventions Training with Robin Shapiro
IFS-Informed EMDR Training (Steps 1&2) - Syzygy Institute
EMDR + IFS Parts Protocol: An EMDRIA Approved Integration (Kendal Hart)
Two-day Trauma Training with Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk
ARC Trauma Treatment for Children and Adolescents
CBT for Anxiety - Beck Institute of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI) Training - Yale Child Study Center
Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Online Training - Fordham University
It is critically important to me that I am using evidence-based modalities when working with people who have experienced trauma.