Healing Trauma at the Root: EMDR, Addiction, and Shame with Brian Gong, LMHC

In this deeply personal and powerful episode, Diana welcomes Brian Gong, LMHC, EMDRIA-Approved Consultant and co-owner of Mangrove Therapy Group, to explore how trauma, shame, and addiction are intricately linked—and how EMDR therapy offers a pathway to healing for even the deepest wounds.

Diana first heard Brian speak at the NSU/MSD Strong event in 2020—two years after the tragic Parkland shooting—and was so impacted by what he shared that she began her own EMDR journey.

In this conversation, they dive into:

• The science and soul of EMDR therapy

• How shame keeps people stuck—and what releases it

• The cultural barriers many face when seeking mental health support

• Why addiction is often a survival strategy for unresolved pain

• How to begin healing—even if you can't afford therapy

Whether you're a clinician, trauma survivor, or simply someone seeking hope and tools for your own journey, this episode will leave you feeling seen, encouraged, and empowered.

Topics Covered:

• What EMDR is—and why it works

• The role of somatic memory in trauma

• How unresolved shame creates cycles of self-sabotage

• Addiction as emotional avoidance and trauma response

• Family systems, cultural shame, and representation in therapy

• Why many suffer in silence—and how to break the stigma

• Where to find free or low-cost trauma therapy options

• How to prepare for EMDR (emotional regulation tips)

• What to look for in a trauma-informed therapist

Quotes to Remember:

"No one's ever heard of EMDR until they need it." – Brian Gong "Shame thrives in secrecy. Healing begins with safe connection." – Brian Gong "Addiction is often just a strategy to avoid pain." – Diana S. Rice "You've got to go through the valley to get to the mountaintop." – Diana S. Rice "Trauma is cumulative. What we avoid only grows." – Brian Gong "All emotions are powerful—but they don't have to control you." – Brian Gong

Resources Mentioned:

• Mangrove Therapy Group – Delray Beach, FL

• EMDRIA – EMDR International Association

• EMDR Institute

• Trauma Recovery/HAP (EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Programs)

• Blog: How to Get Trained in EMDR by Brian Gong

• Diana's Kit

• Book: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk

• Book: In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts by Dr. Gabor Maté

• Book: Trauma and Recovery by Judith Herman

About Brian Gong, LMHC

Brian is the co-owner of Mangrove Therapy Group, a trauma and addiction recovery practice in South Florida. He's a Certified EMDR Therapist, EMDRIA-Approved Consultant, and basic training facilitator. Brian founded the Southeast Florida Trauma Recovery Network in response to the Parkland tragedy, and he currently serves on the board for EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Programs (HAP), training clinicians in underserved communities worldwide.

Connect with Brian:

Website: mangrovetherapy.com Office: Delray Beach, FL Open to speaking, consulting, and community outreach

Connect with Diana + The Holistic Counselor Podcast

Listen to all episodes: The Holistic Counselor Podcast Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy Read the blog: Liberation Lunes Want support? Explore therapy and coaching at Through the Valley Therapy

Final Thoughts:

If you're struggling with trauma, shame, or addiction—please know you're not alone. Whether or not you're in therapy, healing is still possible. You can start with curiosity, small steps, and safe community. Share this episode with someone who might need a little hope today.