Online EMDR Therapy in Philadelphia and Throughout Pennsylvania & New Jersey
Julia Castagna, MS, LPC (she/her)
Director of Operations
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Master of Science (MS)
Virtual Therapy Across Pennsylvania & New Jersey
All About Julia
Julia is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a passionate advocate for healing through self-compassion, curiosity, and deep inner work. She understands that the journey toward self-discovery isn’t linear—it’s messy, complex, and sometimes overwhelming. If you’re feeling stuck, disconnected from yourself, or unsure how to break free from old patterns, Julia provides a supportive space where you can explore, heal, and reconnect with your most authentic self.
Julia specializes in trauma, attachment wounds, anxiety & depression, emotional dysregulation, negative body image & disordered eating, and supporting college students & young adults through major life transitions. Whether you're navigating the weight of unresolved childhood wounds, feeling overwhelmed by anxious thoughts, or struggling to stay grounded during periods of change, Julia uses evidence-based, holistic techniques to help you reconnect with your inner strength and build emotional resilience.
With a therapeutic approach rooted in humor, connection, and mindfulness, Julia helps clients untangle the overwhelming thoughts that cloud their confidence, supporting them in reclaiming the life they truly want to live.
Who She Works With
Julia specializes in working with:
✔ Men healing from attachment trauma with their mothers, working through childhood wounds, emotional neglect, and relationship struggles.
✔ Individuals struggling with eating disorders, body image concerns, and disordered eating patterns, using a trauma-informed, HAES-aligned approach.
✔ Adults coping with anxiety, trauma, and self-doubt, seeking deeper emotional resilience and confidence.
✔ Clients seeking identity-affirming therapy, including those in the LGBTQIA+ community.
✔ Individuals looking for trauma resolution through EMDR and IFS therapy, focusing on relational wounds and early-life experiences.
✔ Anyone ready to break free from emotional stuckness and reclaim their confidence.
She understands that healing is deeply personal, and she provides a space where you can explore your challenges at your own pace, without judgment.
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Julia believes that therapy should feel safe, intuitive, and empowering. She collaborates with clients to identify the root of their struggles and supports them in navigating complex emotions with self-awareness and resilience.
She draws from a variety of evidence-based modalities to create personalized, effective treatment plans:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – Processes trauma and reduces distressing symptoms.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Teaches emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and mindfulness.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) – Helps clients explore and heal different parts of themselves.
Mindfulness & Somatic Techniques – Cultivates awareness, self-acceptance, and body-based healing.
Julia’s approach is compassionate, nonjudgmental, and collaborative—she helps clients develop tools to quiet their inner critic, regulate emotions, and find peace within themselves.
Specialties
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EMDR & Trauma Therapy
Past trauma can keep you trapped in painful cycles of anxiety, avoidance, or emotional numbness. EMDR therapy helps process traumatic memories, reduce triggers, and rebuild emotional safety.
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Anxiety & Emotional Regulation
Anxiety can feel overwhelming and all-consuming, making even small decisions feel impossible. Therapy offers DBT and mindfulness-based strategies to quiet intrusive thoughts, manage stress, and regain confidence.
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Eating Disorders & Body Image
Struggles with food and body image are often deeply rooted in trauma. Therapy supports self-acceptance, emotional healing, and a body-positive approach to recovery.
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Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Inner Child Work
Healing means befriending all parts of yourself—including the wounded parts that learned to cope in painful ways. IFS therapy helps clients explore, understand, and nurture these parts to promote deep emotional healing.
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LGBTQIA+ Affirming Therapy
Navigating identity and relationships can be challenging. Affirming therapy offers a compassionate space to explore, embrace, and celebrate who you are.
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Spiritual Healing & Reconnection
Feeling disconnected from your spiritual practices or sense of self? Therapy helps you reignite your spiritual path, process spiritual trauma, and rediscover meaning.
Perspectives on Healing
Explore her blog posts to understand her perspective and approach to therapy.
Childhood trauma can leave lasting emotional and physical imprints, often stored deep within the body, even when the mind has forgotten the details. In this blog, we explore how somatic therapy helps release trauma held in the body by tuning into physical sensations and using the body’s natural healing abilities. Learn how the connection between mind and body is key to unlocking trauma, fostering healing, and creating lasting change. Click to discover how somatic therapy can help you reconnect and reclaim peace from unresolved childhood wounds.
Are unresolved trauma, anxiety, or relationship challenges holding you back? Virtual EMDR therapy might be the solution you're looking for. In this blog, we explore the key signs that indicate EMDR could enhance your healing journey, offering a convenient and powerful way to process emotional wounds from the comfort of your home. Discover if virtual EMDR is right for you and take the first step toward lasting relief. Click to learn more!
Are past relationships or traumatic experiences holding you back? Trauma attachments can deeply impact your mental health, leading to patterns of fear, anxiety, and unhealthy relationships. In this blog, we explore how EMDR therapy, now accessible virtually, can help you process these deep emotional bonds and move toward healing. Discover how you can break free from the grip of past trauma and start building healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Click to learn more!
Looking for a virtual EMDR therapist but unsure where to start? Finding the right therapist can be daunting, but knowing what to look for can make the process smoother. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to identify a qualified EMDR therapist, from understanding what EMDR therapy is to verifying credentials and scheduling consultations. Click to discover essential tips for finding the right therapist to help you navigate your healing journey effectively!
Childhood trauma often leaves a lasting ripple effect that can impact us well into adulthood. Healing from inner child wounds is a profound journey, yet one that can bring about transformative changes. In our latest blog, we delve into the power of embracing inner child work and how reconnecting with your inner child can lead to some of the most impactful healing experiences we may need. By exploring the depths of our past experiences and honoring the emotions and needs of our inner child, we open doors to healing that can profoundly shape our present and future. Click below to read more and embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment
In this blog, we delve into the essential steps for preparing for trauma therapy. Discover how you can proactively prepare yourself for the transformative journey ahead. From understanding what to expect during trauma therapy to exploring the profound ways it can support your healing process, our blog offers insights to empower you on your path to reclaiming your life. Ready to take the first step? Reach out to us today and begin your journey towards healing and resilience.
In our latest blog, we delve into a common yet often misunderstood phenomenon known as the abstinence violation effect (AVE) and its impact on individuals in eating disorder recovery. Explore how a perceived lapse or violation of self-imposed rules can trigger intense negative emotions and potentially derail progress. Discover strategies for recognizing and managing the AVE to promote resilience and sustainable recovery.
In our latest blog, we dive deep into the transformative power of radical acceptance. Explore how this mindfulness-based practice, rooted in DBT principles, can help you break free from cycles of pain and suffering. Discover the art of embracing reality without judgment or resistance, paving the way for greater resilience and inner peace in your daily life!
Have you ever wondered if Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) could be the key to unlocking a more balanced and resilient you? If the curiosity about DBT groups has been lingering in your mind, you're not alone. In this blog post, we discuss the power of DBT and its impact on emotional regulation, interpersonal skills, and overall well-being. Click here to delve into the core principles of DBT, unravel the structure of DBT skills groups, and uncover the multitude of benefits that await participants on their path to emotional wellness.
Discover how Candy Salad is breaking down societal expectations and beliefs about 'healthy' eating! Click here to learn more about how Candy Salad encourages us to tap into sweetness and indulge without feeling guilt.
Living in Philadelphia can be vibrant and exciting, but it can also come with its share of stressors that contribute to anxiety. From bustling city life to work pressures and personal challenges, it's essential to have effective coping strategies in place. In this blog post, we'll delve into practical tips and techniques specifically tailored to help individuals in Philadelphia manage their anxiety and improve their mental well-being.
Healing sacral chakra trauma involves self-exploration, self-compassion, creative expression, and embracing sensuality for chakra realignment. Visit our blog for more insights.
Are you currently in search of a qualified CBT or DBT therapist in the Philadelphia area to support you on your mental health journey? Would you like to explore the ways in which Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can assist you in overcoming challenges and reaching your goals? Feel free to visit our blog for valuable insights and information on these therapeutic approaches.
Did you know that many individuals have found EMDR therapy to be an effective and beneficial treatment option for those in eating disorder recovery? If you are interested in learning more about this approach, we invite you to visit our blog where you can delve into the details.
Are you curious to see if EMDR therapy can be beneficial for addressing your struggles with an eating disorder or negative body image? Explore our latest blog post for valuable insights and information on how EMDR may offer support in navigating these challenges.
You may have come across EMDR therapy and are possibly considering if it can be effectively conducted virtually, allowing you to participate from the convenience of your home. If you are seeking further information on this topic, you can explore our blog for additional insights and details!
If you find yourself struggling with cognitive distortions that are affecting your daily life and overall well-being, Spilove Psychotherapy is here for you. Whether you're based in Philadelphia, Bryn Mawr, or seeking the convenience of virtual counseling, our experienced team of therapists is available to help you recognize and challenge these distortions, ultimately leading you towards cultivating healthier thought patterns and achieving improved mental wellness.
Are you considering therapy for domestic violence? In this blog post, we will explore the several key advantages associated with engaging in domestic violence therapy. Click here to learn more about how therapy can be beneficial for individuals dealing with domestic violence.
You’ve been feeling intrigued and are considering the option of trying out EMDR therapy in Philadelphia but you find yourself uncertain about what EMDR therapy truly involves. If you want to dig deeper and gain a better understanding of the 8 Phases of EMDR, check out this blog to learn more.
Managing emotions during the holidays can be tough. But you don't have to go through it alone. Consider trying DBT. DBT offers proven techniques to help you regulate your emotions and improve your wellbeing. To learn more about how DBT can help during the holidays, click here. Build your own DBT toolbox and gain valuable skills for a more balanced and connected holiday season.
Struggling with family during the holidays? We got you covered. Click here to learn tips to help you better navigate your family during the holidays.
We can build up our Thanksgiving tool box by integrating the techniques of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). By harnessing the power of DBT, we can maximize our potential for creating harmonious and enriching connections, and truly embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving.
Many people who have been through trauma have trouble sleeping. Our bodies stay tense and alert, making it hard to relax and feel connected to ourselves. This constant state of "being on guard" continues to affect us even after the danger is gone. So, what can you do when you're scared to fall asleep? How can you start to improve your relationship with sleep and have peaceful nights? Well, it's not easy because trauma-related sleep problems can feel overwhelming. But there are effective strategies to address and improve your sleep quality.
Fall is a beautiful season full of vibrant colors and a sense of change in the air. However, many individuals find themselves facing a unique set of challenges when it comes to managing their fall and body image. The shift in weather, wardrobe transitions, and cultural emphasis on holiday festivities can all impact how we perceive ourselves and our bodies. However, It is important to remember that we have the power to navigate these challenges and foster a positive relationship with our bodies during this time.
For those with BPD, you face a unique set of obstacles that can be exhausting to overcome. The constant inner turmoil and unpredictable mood swings can cause significant distress and strain on you. However, there are several effective strategies that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine to regulate yourself and successfully navigate through these challenging situations!
Autumn has arrived in Philadelphia, transforming the city into a colorful and cool landscape. Parks like Fairmount Park and Rittenhouse Square have become picturesque with their vibrant foliage. And people are enjoying leisurely strolls and picnics in Rittenhouse Square. The air is filled with the tempting aromas of fall treats like warm apple cider, pumpkin spice lattes, and freshly baked apple pies. However, despite the picturesque scenes and cool breezes, you find yourself feeling stressed, uneasy, and anxiety You aren’t sure why but every year around this time you’ve always felt the same. It’s led you to wonder why autumn makes you feel anxious.
Starting college can be an exciting and challenging time for many students. Adjusting to a new environment, managing academic responsibilities, and building new relationships can all contribute to increased stress levels. Unfortunately, this transition can also trigger or exacerbate disordered eating behaviors. To support college freshmen in maintaining a healthy relationship with food and their bodies, here are some valuable tips to consider. Click here to learn more!
We have been taught from a young age that thin equals better and healthier. This leads us to criticize, judge, and even hate our bodies if they don't fit the "ideal" mold. However, we have the power to break free from body shame and cultivate a compassionate relationship with our bodies.
Recovery, while different for everyone, often encompasses physical, emotional, and psychological liberation from the restrictive grip of disordered thoughts, belief systems and behaviors. Though the road to eating disorder recovery may be challenging, the transformative power it holds is immeasurable. With time, commitment, and unwavering support, individuals can emerge from the depths of their eating disorder to find a newfound sense of freedom, self-acceptance, and healing.
Reconnect. Rediscover. Reclaim Yourself.
You don’t have to stay stuck in the cycle of self-doubt and overwhelm. You deserve clarity, confidence, and a deep connection with yourself once again.
If you’re ready to quiet your inner critic, break free from old patterns, and feel at home in your own skin, I’m here to help.
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation—no pressure, just a space to explore how therapy can support you.
Struggling with the lasting effects of childhood trauma can feel overwhelming, especially when traditional therapy doesn’t seem to go deep enough. Trauma intensives offer a powerful alternative, providing an immersive healing experience that helps uncover and resolve even the most deeply buried wounds. In this blog, we explore why trauma intensives are ideal for healing childhood trauma and how this focused approach can accelerate your path to recovery.
Ready to learn more about how trauma intensives can help you heal and reclaim your life? Click here to read the full blog!