Areas of Expertise
Parental Identity Discovery™
DNA discoveries are surprise revelations, often from commercial DNA tests, that you have falsified or misattributed parentage, and can come from learning you are donor conceived (DCP), late discovery adoptee (LDA) or a non-paternal event (NPE), collectively referred to as Misattributed Parentage Experiences (MPE). After my own MPE discovery in 2014, I pioneered the only mental health treatment protocol dedicated to DNA surprises, I call Parental Identity Discovery™; a unique, holistic approach to resolve trauma, synthesize identity and adjust to family dynamics.
In addition to individual or family sessions, I moderate an on-going, virtual, worldwide MPE support group via Zoom, every third Monday, monthly - 5:00pm - 6:30pm Pacific Standard Time
EMDR
I use EMDR extensively for civilians and first responders/military alike. I trained under founder, Dr. Francine Shapiro and also ultilize the updated methodology of Attachment Based EMDR promoted by Dr. Laurel Parnell. This efficient and effective treatment address traumas of any nature along with the corresponding core beliefs resulting in looping behavior.
First Responders, Pilots, and Military Personnel
I have strong cultural competency in law enforcement, military and aviation, with deep understanding of the special requriements of these fields. I apply EMDR for trauma and PTSD related injuries as well as a specialized approach to couples counseling pertinent to the unique effects these fields have on relationships. Clients can initiate services through their EAP or Military OneSource programs.
Adult ADHD
I structure ADHD counseling as a two pronged approach: first, resolve poor self-esteem and core beliefs therapeutically, addressing emotional pain usually stemming from family of origin relationships; and second, shift focus to a coaching format in support of cognitive-behavioral tools for better daily functioning. The result is accountability and well-adjustment.
My Approach
I favor an integrative approach combining elements of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory, Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and The Gottman Method, combining deep psychological work with practical interventions based on evidence-based practice.
Throughout my training, I was drawn to family systems models in particular and used genograms (family maps) to learn about a client’s family of origin patterns. I had no idea that this training was setting me up for the work I would later come to pioneer as Parental Identity Discovery™. In fact, one of the very founders of modern psychotherapy, Erik Erikson, was influenced by his DNA story from falsified parentage – an affair.
I am an ally to clients coming as they are, inclusive of all demographics, cultures, races/ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, genders, etc., and prioritize an engaging therapeutic relationship by focusing on rapport using humor and empathy.
I received a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Dominican University of CA and am now a full-time, tenure-track professor in the same department. I received a PsyD in Human & Organizational Psychology from Touro University Worldwide and research the intersection of Misattributed Parentage Experiences (MPE) with identity formation and family dynamics.
I also hold reciprocal licensure in the states of New York and Florida for teletherapy. For over 20 years I practiced as Jodi Klugman-Rabb, and have now simplified by consolidating to my full name and married name only: Josephine Rabb.
