Meet Kelly O’Horo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly O’Horo.

Hi Kelly, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Hello, I’m Kelly O’Horo, an Attachment-based EMDR Therapist, EMDRIA Consultant & Trainer, and host of the podcast Adaptable: Behavior Explained. My journey into the world of therapy began in 2010, but my love for EMDR therapy started as a client. Having a personal experience with trauma ignited my passion for becoming a trauma therapist.

As a mother of five, with four of my children being veterans, and married to a wonderful survivor of C-PTSD who has also become a counselor, my personal and professional life is deeply intertwined with the understanding of trauma. With five grandkids, I find myself in the role of the family matriarch, and as an Enneagram Type 2, I naturally gravitate towards helping and healing.

My background as a public school educator for 15 years provided me with a strong foundation for understanding the developmental needs of individuals. I transitioned into the field of therapy, believing that the therapy office serves as a classroom for life skills that might not have been taught elsewhere—skills related to emotions, coping, and age-appropriate responses.

In my role as an EMDR therapist, I have a particular focus on attachment, implicit trauma, and dissociation throughout the lifespan. I find joy in helping clinicians develop into their best EMDR therapists through the consultation process and as a trainer.

My former mentor, Deany Laliotis often said, “The difference between an EMDR therapist that is a carpenter as opposed to a craftsman is rooted in exquisite attunement, excellent consultation, and trust in the process.” I believe in the power of connection and healing, and my workdays are dedicated to walking alongside people as they brave their healing journeys.

Beyond my professional endeavors, I bring authenticity, compassion, and an unpolished approach to my work through my podcast. In my broader discussions, I explore various topics such as parenting, marriage, relationships, trauma, attachment, adoption, depression, addiction, anxiety, and love. I carry with me the belief that there’s a profound ‘why’ behind all behaviors, and understanding these roots is key to fostering healing and connection.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
While my journey has been fulfilling, it hasn’t been without its challenges. Transitioning from a public school educator to a therapist came with its set of adjustments. Learning the ropes of a new profession, especially one as emotionally intense as therapy, presented its own learning curve.

My personal experience with trauma has been a driving force in my career, but it also posed its challenges. Navigating through the emotional terrain of trauma, both in my own life and in the lives of those I help, requires continuous self-reflection and emotional resilience.

Additionally, being a mother to five, with four of my children being veterans, and being married to a survivor of C-PTSD who is also a counselor adds layers of complexity. Balancing the demands of family life while providing support to those experiencing trauma requires a delicate equilibrium.

As an Enneagram Type 2, my natural inclination to be a helper and healer can sometimes present challenges. Finding the balance between providing support and maintaining healthy boundaries is an ongoing process. It’s crucial to avoid burnout and ensure that I’m taking care of my own well-being.

The transition to becoming an EMDR Trainer and Consultant, while rewarding, has its own set of responsibilities. Helping clinicians develop into their best EMDR therapists requires dedication and a commitment to ongoing learning.

In essence, the journey has been rich with experiences, growth, and fulfillment, but not without its share of hurdles. These challenges, however, have been instrumental in shaping my understanding, resilience, and commitment to the work I do.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an Attachment-based EMDR Therapist, EMDRIA Consultant, and EMDR Trainer. My work revolves around guiding individuals through their healing journeys, particularly those dealing with trauma, attachment issues, and dissociation across the lifespan.

My specialization in attachment and implicit trauma allows me to delve deeply into understanding the intricate connections between early life experiences and current emotional struggles. By utilizing EMDR therapy, a method I fell in love with as a client, I assist individuals in processing and healing from traumatic experiences.

As a consultant and trainer, I take pride in helping clinicians develop into their best EMDR therapists. I believe in the power of exquisite attunement, excellent consultation, and trust in the therapeutic process. The nuanced artistry of being an EMDR therapist, akin to being a craftsman rather than just a carpenter, is a principle that guides my work. The only way to become a craftsman is to remain dedicated to your own personal work as a therapist. We can only take our clients as far as we have been willing to go ourselves.

I am known for my authentic, compassionate, and unpolished approach. I aim to create a space where individuals feel heard, understood, and supported in their healing journeys. Beyond the clinical realm, I extend these discussions to explore various topics such as parenting, marriage, relationships, trauma, attachment, adoption, depression, addiction, anxiety, and love.

What sets me apart is not just my professional expertise but my lived experience with trauma. This personal connection allows me to approach my work with deep empathy and understanding. The combination of my role as a mother, wife, and therapist further enriches my ability to connect with individuals on a personal level.

I take immense pride in witnessing the resilience of the people I work with and in being a part of their transformative journeys. The knowledge that I contribute to the growth and healing of others is what fuels my passion for this work.

In addition to my work as an Attachment-based EMDR Therapist, EMDRIA Consultant, and EMDR Trainer, I extend the reach of my insights through a dedicated podcast. This platform allows me to delve even deeper into discussions surrounding trauma, attachment, and emotional healing.

On the podcast, I bring my authentic, compassionate, and unpolished approach to explore a variety of topics beyond the clinical realm. From parenting and marriage to relationships, trauma, attachment, adoption, depression, addiction, anxiety, and love, the podcast serves as an extension of the safe space I aim to create for individuals on their healing journeys.

What sets the podcast apart is its commitment to fostering understanding and support in a conversational and relatable manner. My professional expertise, combined with my lived experience with trauma, ensures that each episode is infused with empathy and a genuine connection to the human experience. Through this platform, I aim to contribute to a broader dialogue on healing, resilience, and the universal journey toward growth and well-being.

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
In navigating the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 crisis, I’ve gleaned valuable insights into the resilience and adaptability of individuals and communities. The pandemic has accelerated the digital transformation across various sectors, making remote work, online education, and virtual communication integral to our daily lives. Witnessing the resurgence of community solidarity has been a heartening aspect, with people coming together to support one another.

The crisis has underscored the importance of mental health awareness, prompting discussions on stress, anxiety, and the overall well-being of individuals. Additionally, it has emphasized the global interconnectedness of our communities, highlighting the need for international cooperation in addressing shared challenges.

As I continue to engage with individuals on their healing journeys, the lessons learned during this crisis contribute to a deeper understanding of resilience, adaptability, and the significance of connection in fostering collective well-being.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kellyohoro.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellyohoro
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550855516472
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AdaptableBehaviorExplained