Patrick Clancy credits EMDR therapy for managing trauma after children's deaths

Key points

• Patrick Clancy stated that EMDR therapy was the most effective treatment for his trauma, helping him stop waking up screaming and processing the event 'head on.'
• Clancy described EMDR as a process that forces patients to face avoided memories, which he found unpleasant but ultimately transformative.
• He publicly forgave Lindsay Clancy, believing her actions were caused by mental illness rather than malice, despite her never asking for forgiveness.
• Clancy and his new wife, Dr. Rachel Danis, are planning to have children and intend to tell them about their deceased siblings.
• Lindsay Clancy’s trial ended in a mistrial on September 4 after the jury deadlocked 11-1, with a hearing set for September 29 to decide on a retrial or dismissal.

Background

This story follows the high-profile murder trial of Lindsay Clancy, who was accused of killing her three children, Cora, Dawson, and Callan, in Duxbury, Massachusetts, in January 2023. The defense argued she was suffering from postpartum psychosis and was not criminally responsible. The trial concluded in a mistrial in early September 2026. Prior to this interview, Clancy had faced intense online scrutiny and conspiracy theories alleging his involvement in the deaths, which his legal team has denounced as defamation.

How outlets are covering it

The New York Post focuses heavily on the mechanics and efficacy of EMDR therapy, citing Clancy’s description of it as a 'miracle' and detailing the eight-phase process. CBS News and NBC News provide a broader narrative of Clancy’s grief, his forgiveness of his ex-wife, and his remarriage, emphasizing the human impact of the case. WCVB highlights the legal aftermath, quoting defense attorney Kevin Reddington, who supported Clancy’s account but declined to comment on the holdout juror. While all sources agree on the basic facts of the mistrial and Clancy’s interview, the New York Post emphasizes the therapeutic aspect, whereas CBS and NBC focus on the emotional and social dimensions, including the online harassment Clancy faced.

Why it matters

This story highlights the intersection of high-profile criminal cases and mental health advocacy. Clancy’s public endorsement of EMDR therapy brings attention to evidence-based treatments for PTSD and trauma. Furthermore, the case continues to spark national debate regarding the relationship between postpartum psychosis and criminal responsibility, as well as the impact of social media on the lives of victims and their families. The upcoming legal hearing will determine whether the case proceeds to a retrial or is dismissed, potentially setting precedents for similar cases involving perinatal mental health.

What to watch

A hearing is scheduled for September 29 in Plymouth, Massachusetts, to determine the next steps in Lindsay Clancy’s case. Defense attorney Kevin Reddington indicated that motions, including a potential double jeopardy motion, may be filed. The court will decide whether to order a retrial or dismiss the charges. Meanwhile, Patrick Clancy and Dr. Rachel Danis are preparing to start a family.