EMDR Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI

Photo of Andrea Rotzien, PhD, Psychologist
Andrea Rotzien
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for 26 years. My career has had several chapters. I have been fortunate to work in a variety of clinics, hospitals (both inpatient psych and medical), the VA system, and two eating disorder programs. I was an academic for 10 years and a tenured professor at GVSU before returning to private practice full time. I am versed in cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, psychodynamic and internal family systems theory. I value mindfulness and exploring the meaning of life. I am also certified in EMDR and enneagram interpretation.
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for 26 years. My career has had several chapters. I have been fortunate to work in a variety of clinics, hospitals (both inpatient psych and medical), the VA system, and two eating disorder programs. I was an academic for 10 years and a tenured professor at GVSU before returning to private practice full time. I am versed in cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, psychodynamic and internal family systems theory. I value mindfulness and exploring the meaning of life. I am also certified in EMDR and enneagram interpretation.
(616) 551-4690 View (616) 551-4690
Photo of Teresa Hultink, MA, LPC, Counselor
Teresa Hultink
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and others.
Life can throw us some curve balls. We can have extended stress and trauma that leads to depression and anxiety. There is treatment available to assist with these issues. Therapy can also relieve and possibly eliminate some somatic issues that include; chronic pain, migraines, and fatigue that often accompanies stress. Those who also suffer from traumatic injuries who now have chronic pain or phantom pain could benefit from EMDR therapy. First Responders and those in helping professions such as Teachers, Nurses, Doctors, and Therapists (To name just a few) can experience stress from being on the job. There is hope and healing!
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and others.
Life can throw us some curve balls. We can have extended stress and trauma that leads to depression and anxiety. There is treatment available to assist with these issues. Therapy can also relieve and possibly eliminate some somatic issues that include; chronic pain, migraines, and fatigue that often accompanies stress. Those who also suffer from traumatic injuries who now have chronic pain or phantom pain could benefit from EMDR therapy. First Responders and those in helping professions such as Teachers, Nurses, Doctors, and Therapists (To name just a few) can experience stress from being on the job. There is hope and healing!
(616) 201-0720 View (616) 201-0720
Photo of Melanie Freeland, LPC Intern
Melanie Freeland
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
My areas of interest include EMDR, identity development, gender and sexuality, attachment trauma, and social justice/ therapy decolonization.
The deepest goal of counseling is learning about yourself by teaching me about you. This idea can be daunting. You might be asking yourself, “What will I learn? Am I ready? What will this journey be like?” Sometimes starting the process is the hardest part! The beauty of counseling is that the journey doesn’t have to be taken alone. When you find a therapist that fits well, it can feel less like stumbling through a dark forest and more like forging a path of your own. No matter what brings you to therapy, feeling empowered, safe, and understood through the process can make all the difference in the world.
My areas of interest include EMDR, identity development, gender and sexuality, attachment trauma, and social justice/ therapy decolonization.
The deepest goal of counseling is learning about yourself by teaching me about you. This idea can be daunting. You might be asking yourself, “What will I learn? Am I ready? What will this journey be like?” Sometimes starting the process is the hardest part! The beauty of counseling is that the journey doesn’t have to be taken alone. When you find a therapist that fits well, it can feel less like stumbling through a dark forest and more like forging a path of your own. No matter what brings you to therapy, feeling empowered, safe, and understood through the process can make all the difference in the world.
(616) 737-0939 View (616) 737-0939
Photo of Julie Edwards, LLP, LPC, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Julie Edwards
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
My passion as a therapist is helping people navigate life transitions and cope with personal challenges. I work with both teenagers and adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, loss, and the emotional aspects of living with neurological disorders. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, and others to support my clients. With compassion and understanding, I aim to create a warm, non-judgmental environment where clients feel safe sharing their stories.
My passion as a therapist is helping people navigate life transitions and cope with personal challenges. I work with both teenagers and adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, loss, and the emotional aspects of living with neurological disorders. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, and others to support my clients. With compassion and understanding, I aim to create a warm, non-judgmental environment where clients feel safe sharing their stories.
(616) 208-3996 View (616) 208-3996
Photo of Stephanie Myers, IFS L1, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, IFS L1, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49544  (Online Only)
My primary therapeutic approach and model is Internal Family Systems, and I pair this with EMDR around trauma.
Life and relationships are overwhelming, and you deserve joy! You already have everything needed to feel better. Together we will discover parts of you – some you may know and others that seem safer to hide - and their role in your beautifully unique inner world.
My primary therapeutic approach and model is Internal Family Systems, and I pair this with EMDR around trauma.
Life and relationships are overwhelming, and you deserve joy! You already have everything needed to feel better. Together we will discover parts of you – some you may know and others that seem safer to hide - and their role in your beautifully unique inner world.
(616) 229-4711 View (616) 229-4711
Photo of Ken L Richmond, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ken L Richmond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I have seen people struggle for years with depression and/or anxiety caused by negative thoughts we have about ourselves from things we have been through in life, some things big and bad, others unintentional or seemingly benign. While we all experience challenges in life, you don't deserve to suffer and I can/want to help you find that relief. Medication helps, but is not the answer to long term recovery. Regular talk therapy can also be helpful, but often is not effective for recovery. EMDR therapy has been the most hopeful service for long term recovery I have found and the benefits can be physiologically understood.
I have seen people struggle for years with depression and/or anxiety caused by negative thoughts we have about ourselves from things we have been through in life, some things big and bad, others unintentional or seemingly benign. While we all experience challenges in life, you don't deserve to suffer and I can/want to help you find that relief. Medication helps, but is not the answer to long term recovery. Regular talk therapy can also be helpful, but often is not effective for recovery. EMDR therapy has been the most hopeful service for long term recovery I have found and the benefits can be physiologically understood.
(616) 369-7322 View (616) 369-7322
Photo of Dr. Merrill E Graham, PhD, LMSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Merrill E Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Waitlist for new clients
As an EMDR (I/II, advanced) therapist, I treat trauma and anxiety in both adults and children.
I am an experienced Psychotherapist with over 25 years experience working with children, teens, adults, and families in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, divorce, and other life changes. I offer Polyvagal-informed therapy with the focus of eliminating the symptoms that have impaired healthy functioning.
As an EMDR (I/II, advanced) therapist, I treat trauma and anxiety in both adults and children.
I am an experienced Psychotherapist with over 25 years experience working with children, teens, adults, and families in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, divorce, and other life changes. I offer Polyvagal-informed therapy with the focus of eliminating the symptoms that have impaired healthy functioning.
(616) 210-3888 View (616) 210-3888
Photo of Kreg Westergren, MA, LLPC, NCC
Kreg Westergren
MA, LLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Kreg utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing as well as EMDR Therapy.
Kreg is a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor who is motivated to help every client learn healthy means of managing mental and emotional difficulties. He is dedicated to providing compassionate, results-oriented, and solution-focused care. Kreg believes that the best way to overcome difficulties and establish confidence is first to seek help. His mission is to be that person where you will feel comfortable to unfold any difficulties you may have in your personal and professional life. He will work with you in a reliable, patient, and compassionate manner that will not only foster authentic but also empathetic dialogue.
Kreg utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing as well as EMDR Therapy.
Kreg is a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor who is motivated to help every client learn healthy means of managing mental and emotional difficulties. He is dedicated to providing compassionate, results-oriented, and solution-focused care. Kreg believes that the best way to overcome difficulties and establish confidence is first to seek help. His mission is to be that person where you will feel comfortable to unfold any difficulties you may have in your personal and professional life. He will work with you in a reliable, patient, and compassionate manner that will not only foster authentic but also empathetic dialogue.
(616) 404-4028 View (616) 404-4028
Photo of Amy Hubbard, MA, LPC, LLP, Counselor
Amy Hubbard
Counselor, MA, LPC, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I am trained in EMDR, a highly successful treatment approach for trauma-related issues.
I believe every individual has the ability to reach their full potential. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental place for you to share your thoughts, identify problems and work toward achieving desired goals. I have worked with individuals of all ages with varying issues including, but not limited to: mood and personality disorders, physical and sexual abuse, anger management, eating disorders, anxiety, stress management, relationship issues and major life changes. I appreciate the uniqueness of each individual and will treat you with respect, compassion, and honesty.
I am trained in EMDR, a highly successful treatment approach for trauma-related issues.
I believe every individual has the ability to reach their full potential. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental place for you to share your thoughts, identify problems and work toward achieving desired goals. I have worked with individuals of all ages with varying issues including, but not limited to: mood and personality disorders, physical and sexual abuse, anger management, eating disorders, anxiety, stress management, relationship issues and major life changes. I appreciate the uniqueness of each individual and will treat you with respect, compassion, and honesty.
(616) 279-3869 View (616) 279-3869
Photo of Kaitlin Mulvihill, LLMSW, MT-BC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlin Mulvihill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Do you want to gain a deeper understanding of yourself? Are you wanting to foster meaningful connections with the people in your life? In a world where our pain often goes unheard, finding a space to share our stories and experiences can be challenging. As a therapist, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can navigate life’s complexities and find your way forward. My approach emphasizes empathy and warmth and I believe that healing and growth happen when people feel heard and valued within a safe and supportive environment. I utilize evidence-based therapies including EMDR, IFS, and CBT.
Do you want to gain a deeper understanding of yourself? Are you wanting to foster meaningful connections with the people in your life? In a world where our pain often goes unheard, finding a space to share our stories and experiences can be challenging. As a therapist, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can navigate life’s complexities and find your way forward. My approach emphasizes empathy and warmth and I believe that healing and growth happen when people feel heard and valued within a safe and supportive environment. I utilize evidence-based therapies including EMDR, IFS, and CBT.
(616) 236-6703 View (616) 236-6703
Photo of Nikole Muriithi, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nikole Muriithi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
My training includes such approaches as, EMDR, CBT, DBT, etc, which combined with my Candid approach has allowed me to assist many individuals in finding the freedom they were seeking in their lives.
Are you looking for a therapist who is honest, direct, and focused on helping you in a way that fits your needs? Are you struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, motivation, time management, impulse control, and so much more? Do you struggle with overwhelming emotions and relationship issues? If you answered YES to any or all of these questions, I am the therapist for you! My approach is different from the rest. My "ADHD superpower" is helping those just like me who struggle in a world not designed for them. This has caused trauma you no longer have to carry. Let me help lighten your load and heal your soul.
My training includes such approaches as, EMDR, CBT, DBT, etc, which combined with my Candid approach has allowed me to assist many individuals in finding the freedom they were seeking in their lives.
Are you looking for a therapist who is honest, direct, and focused on helping you in a way that fits your needs? Are you struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, motivation, time management, impulse control, and so much more? Do you struggle with overwhelming emotions and relationship issues? If you answered YES to any or all of these questions, I am the therapist for you! My approach is different from the rest. My "ADHD superpower" is helping those just like me who struggle in a world not designed for them. This has caused trauma you no longer have to carry. Let me help lighten your load and heal your soul.
(616) 737-0418 View (616) 737-0418
Photo of Jennifer L Selent, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer L Selent
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
These include EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Brainspotting, and Trauma-Focused Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist that has been working with Families, Couples, and Individuals with many diagnosis for over 15 years. I have a very wide array of experience, but do provide specialized training for the following populations: First Responders, individuals suffering from traumatic stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, addiction, and grief as well as their families. I also can support with performance issues related to competition, work, etc. I expect you would find me to be down to earth and practical, but clinically sophisticated in my approach. My goal is partnership and empowerment.
These include EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Brainspotting, and Trauma-Focused Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist that has been working with Families, Couples, and Individuals with many diagnosis for over 15 years. I have a very wide array of experience, but do provide specialized training for the following populations: First Responders, individuals suffering from traumatic stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, addiction, and grief as well as their families. I also can support with performance issues related to competition, work, etc. I expect you would find me to be down to earth and practical, but clinically sophisticated in my approach. My goal is partnership and empowerment.
(616) 537-6729 View (616) 537-6729
Photo of Vicki Nelson Smeby - Vicki Nelson Smeby, MA, LLP, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Vicki Nelson Smeby, MA, LLP
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I view therapy as having three heavy hitters for deep lasting healing. 1) EMDR to neutralize your past adverse events; big & little traumas and 2) Grieving effectively by releasing your sadness and then using skills to stop returning to sad or bad thoughts and 3) Choosing an Attitude of Healing to forgive yourself and others. This will culminate in living an empowered, calm and confident life. My clients set weekly goals and amaze me with their determination and willingness to go the distance to grow, mature and experience full healing. My teachings and handouts are creative and original. Let’s do this!
I view therapy as having three heavy hitters for deep lasting healing. 1) EMDR to neutralize your past adverse events; big & little traumas and 2) Grieving effectively by releasing your sadness and then using skills to stop returning to sad or bad thoughts and 3) Choosing an Attitude of Healing to forgive yourself and others. This will culminate in living an empowered, calm and confident life. My clients set weekly goals and amaze me with their determination and willingness to go the distance to grow, mature and experience full healing. My teachings and handouts are creative and original. Let’s do this!
(616) 460-1819 View (616) 460-1819
Photo of Michele Figuereo, MA, LPC, Counselor
Michele Figuereo
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
In addition to using a holistic therapeutic approach to counseling, I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I believe that through a safe and judgment-free therapeutic relationship true growth, empowerment, and healing can occur in any individual's life. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have an extensive range of clinical experience providing mental health services for depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, grief, family and relationship issues, career exploration, and the LGBT population. All are welcome here. I see clients starting at age 13 through adult and welcome you to take a step towards a better quality of life and self care by contacting me to set up an appointment.
In addition to using a holistic therapeutic approach to counseling, I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I believe that through a safe and judgment-free therapeutic relationship true growth, empowerment, and healing can occur in any individual's life. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have an extensive range of clinical experience providing mental health services for depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, grief, family and relationship issues, career exploration, and the LGBT population. All are welcome here. I see clients starting at age 13 through adult and welcome you to take a step towards a better quality of life and self care by contacting me to set up an appointment.
(616) 828-1068 View (616) 828-1068
Photo of Crystal F Barnett, LLMSW, CPRM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal F Barnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, CPRM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
I have extensive training and expertise in a variety of evidenced-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Lies That Bind Cognitive Restructuring (LTB), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Trauma.
Greetings! I am Crystal (she/her), I earned my master's degree in social work from GVSU in 2020. I am a limited licensed social worker (LLMSW) and Certified Peer Recovery Mentor (CPRM) with the state of Michigan. I have experience working with women within a variety of settings including community based, behavioral health and residential substance use treatment settings.
I have extensive training and expertise in a variety of evidenced-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Lies That Bind Cognitive Restructuring (LTB), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Trauma.
Greetings! I am Crystal (she/her), I earned my master's degree in social work from GVSU in 2020. I am a limited licensed social worker (LLMSW) and Certified Peer Recovery Mentor (CPRM) with the state of Michigan. I have experience working with women within a variety of settings including community based, behavioral health and residential substance use treatment settings.
(616) 737-7652 x108 View (616) 737-7652 x108
Photo of Paul Krauss At Health For Life Counseling, MA, LPC, Counselor
Paul Krauss At Health For Life Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Most of us have advanced training in EMDR therapy, which is not talk therapy.
Hello. We are looking forward to being a part of your journey toward happiness and health. In the Great Psychotherapy Debate (Wampold, 2001), studies demonstrated that if there are two groups of people with similar problems, those who receive counseling will be better off than 79% of those who do not receive counseling. Counseling can bring relief, resolution, clarity, freedom, or help you overcome a challenge. Our counseling style is encouraging, empowering, nonjudgmental, and thorough. We all have a training in variety of types of therapy and we will customize it to you.
Most of us have advanced training in EMDR therapy, which is not talk therapy.
Hello. We are looking forward to being a part of your journey toward happiness and health. In the Great Psychotherapy Debate (Wampold, 2001), studies demonstrated that if there are two groups of people with similar problems, those who receive counseling will be better off than 79% of those who do not receive counseling. Counseling can bring relief, resolution, clarity, freedom, or help you overcome a challenge. Our counseling style is encouraging, empowering, nonjudgmental, and thorough. We all have a training in variety of types of therapy and we will customize it to you.
(616) 219-2963 View (616) 219-2963
Photo of Julie Schalk, LLPC, Counselor
Julie Schalk
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TF-CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR trained), Play Therapy, and some Internal Family Systems (IFS) are my most commonly used therapy types with clients.
I am passionate about counseling pre-teens (age 10 and up), adolescents, young adults, and adults. I especially enjoy helping others untangle and heal from past trauma as well as helping individuals with ADHD develop an understanding for their way of operating and skills around that, viewing it in a positive light. I enjoy using Sand Tray, Play Therapy, and EMDR with clients of all ages.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TF-CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR trained), Play Therapy, and some Internal Family Systems (IFS) are my most commonly used therapy types with clients.
I am passionate about counseling pre-teens (age 10 and up), adolescents, young adults, and adults. I especially enjoy helping others untangle and heal from past trauma as well as helping individuals with ADHD develop an understanding for their way of operating and skills around that, viewing it in a positive light. I enjoy using Sand Tray, Play Therapy, and EMDR with clients of all ages.
(616) 236-4242 x168 View (616) 236-4242 x168
Photo of Julia Hawkins, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
I primarily use mindfulness, parts work, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) in sessions with my clients.
Welcome. My name is Julia, and I’m here to support you. As a therapist, I specialize in trauma recovery and all that comes with it - depression, anxiety, grief, anger, coping (both healthy and unhealthy), and more.
I primarily use mindfulness, parts work, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) in sessions with my clients.
Welcome. My name is Julia, and I’m here to support you. As a therapist, I specialize in trauma recovery and all that comes with it - depression, anxiety, grief, anger, coping (both healthy and unhealthy), and more.
(616) 441-0344 View (616) 441-0344
Photo of Andrew David Clay - Bethany Christian Services - Grand Rapids, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Christian Services - Grand Rapids
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Treatments utilized vary by your needs and the counselor's expertise, and may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TF-CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy, Interpersonal Process, and more.
Are you or your family going through a difficult time? Maybe you are experiencing relational challenges, feeling anxious or depressed, struggling to make sense of traumatic experiences, or worrying about your child's emotional or social functioning. At Bethany, we have an expert team of trauma-informed, culturally responsive counseling and psychiatric professionals who will walk alongside you in the pursuit of personal and relational wellbeing. As a community rooted in hope, our clinicians create an inclusive space that is open to all. No matter what you are facing, we are here to help.
Treatments utilized vary by your needs and the counselor's expertise, and may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), TF-CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy, Interpersonal Process, and more.
Are you or your family going through a difficult time? Maybe you are experiencing relational challenges, feeling anxious or depressed, struggling to make sense of traumatic experiences, or worrying about your child's emotional or social functioning. At Bethany, we have an expert team of trauma-informed, culturally responsive counseling and psychiatric professionals who will walk alongside you in the pursuit of personal and relational wellbeing. As a community rooted in hope, our clinicians create an inclusive space that is open to all. No matter what you are facing, we are here to help.
(616) 523-3525 View (616) 523-3525
Photo of Rob Conrad, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rob Conrad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Rob Conrad, LMSW Licensed Master of Social Work, earned his Master’s of Social Work from the University of Michigan. Rob has experience working with children, teens, families, and adults. He has spent over a decade working with individuals who experienced complex trauma. Rob is certified in Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trained in EMDR. He believes in meeting his clients where they are at and in the collaborative nature of therapy. Rob uses evidenced based practices to help his clients identify and achieve their goals.
Rob Conrad, LMSW Licensed Master of Social Work, earned his Master’s of Social Work from the University of Michigan. Rob has experience working with children, teens, families, and adults. He has spent over a decade working with individuals who experienced complex trauma. Rob is certified in Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trained in EMDR. He believes in meeting his clients where they are at and in the collaborative nature of therapy. Rob uses evidenced based practices to help his clients identify and achieve their goals.
(616) 374-2063 View (616) 374-2063
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EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.