EMDR Therapists in West Des Moines, IA
![Photo of Bethany Jo Zeitz, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90f37944-55d0-49b2-8014-3c2605a676f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bethany Jo Zeitz
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a variety of modalities and interventions including CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, and REBT.
Waitlist for new clients. Congratulations! You've taken the first, sometimes very difficult, step of working to improve your mental health. Whether you're struggling with a history of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, work stress, or feeling burnt out I'm proud of you for taking a step in the direction of caring for yourself. I'm excited to collaborate with you in order to develop healthy coping skills, increase your awareness of the impact of the world on your emotions, and to feel more at peace, whatever that means to you!
I utilize a variety of modalities and interventions including CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, and REBT.
Waitlist for new clients. Congratulations! You've taken the first, sometimes very difficult, step of working to improve your mental health. Whether you're struggling with a history of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, work stress, or feeling burnt out I'm proud of you for taking a step in the direction of caring for yourself. I'm excited to collaborate with you in order to develop healthy coping skills, increase your awareness of the impact of the world on your emotions, and to feel more at peace, whatever that means to you!
![Photo of Alli Conrad, LISW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4871d21a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alli Conrad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training in trauma-based interventions, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of challenges. I especially enjoy working with kids using play-based interventions. Play therapy is an approach to counseling that allows children to use toys and other play materials to express their thoughts and feelings. I am a registered play therapist with many hours of specialized training in play therapy techniques. I am also trained in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
I have specialized training in trauma-based interventions, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of challenges. I especially enjoy working with kids using play-based interventions. Play therapy is an approach to counseling that allows children to use toys and other play materials to express their thoughts and feelings. I am a registered play therapist with many hours of specialized training in play therapy techniques. I am also trained in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
![Photo of Anna Zuidema, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab4a90fd-7da6-459b-b824-bc5d4a4e8d37/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in EMDR and CPT, both used to treat trauma and PTSD.
The decision to come to therapy is personal and takes both vulnerability and courage. As we work to create a life of meaning and purpose, we face anxiety, uncertainty, and other life stressors along our way. Therapy can be a turning point to help redirect you down a path of your choosing and help you gain a sense of control over your life and emotional well being. As a therapist I work to provide a safe, supportive, and judgment free space for client’s to begin their journey to healing and self-exploration. Specialties include mood disorders, trauma, and chronic pain.
I am trained in EMDR and CPT, both used to treat trauma and PTSD.
The decision to come to therapy is personal and takes both vulnerability and courage. As we work to create a life of meaning and purpose, we face anxiety, uncertainty, and other life stressors along our way. Therapy can be a turning point to help redirect you down a path of your choosing and help you gain a sense of control over your life and emotional well being. As a therapist I work to provide a safe, supportive, and judgment free space for client’s to begin their journey to healing and self-exploration. Specialties include mood disorders, trauma, and chronic pain.
![Photo of Kristin Haldeman, MS, tLMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/061dbf97-40f2-4ace-8242-4559e97bc8d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use a variety of theoretical approaches with clients such as Person-Centered Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and more.
I work with couples, and individuals 14 years of age and older. If clients want to incorporate a spiritual perspective into counseling, I am happy to work with them through a Biblical perspective. My clinical interests are infertility, miscarriages, marriage counseling, trauma, anxiety, phobias, OCD, eating disorders, the rural community, and adjustments to life’s transitions. I have experience working with fertility challenges, miscarriages, anxiety, OCD symptoms, relational issues, couples, eating disorders, adolescents, depression, communication, and coping skills.
I use a variety of theoretical approaches with clients such as Person-Centered Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and more.
I work with couples, and individuals 14 years of age and older. If clients want to incorporate a spiritual perspective into counseling, I am happy to work with them through a Biblical perspective. My clinical interests are infertility, miscarriages, marriage counseling, trauma, anxiety, phobias, OCD, eating disorders, the rural community, and adjustments to life’s transitions. I have experience working with fertility challenges, miscarriages, anxiety, OCD symptoms, relational issues, couples, eating disorders, adolescents, depression, communication, and coping skills.
![Photo of Deanna L Engrav, LMFT, MA, CADC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb021dd1-92cd-4199-8f09-e51684a680bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deanna L Engrav
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CADC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
My areas of focus include working with individuals who have experienced trauma and individuals dealing with addiction. I offer an unbiased surrounding where you can feel safe while discussing intimate details about your personal journey throughout life. My approach to therapy is integrative with priority given to EMDR. I look forward to meeting with you and beginning this incredible transition together!
My areas of focus include working with individuals who have experienced trauma and individuals dealing with addiction. I offer an unbiased surrounding where you can feel safe while discussing intimate details about your personal journey throughout life. My approach to therapy is integrative with priority given to EMDR. I look forward to meeting with you and beginning this incredible transition together!
![Photo of Erik Oostenink - Erik Oostenink, LMHC, LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86429469-fda4-4e8f-871a-b6cbd8e643a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erik Oostenink, LMHC, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which can be useful with trauma or stuck beliefs.
I strive to provide a warm and welcoming environment for people to feel safe, genuine, and accepted, to work through issues. With over 20 years of experience, I work with many men who can be real about struggles with life changes, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I also see women, couples, and adolescents. I enjoy the balance of working with a variety of people, and also feel passionate about making counseling a healthy place for men too. I take people serious and we can have fun too. Typical sessions involve more laughter than tears and are sprinkled with talk of sports, current events, and family.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which can be useful with trauma or stuck beliefs.
I strive to provide a warm and welcoming environment for people to feel safe, genuine, and accepted, to work through issues. With over 20 years of experience, I work with many men who can be real about struggles with life changes, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I also see women, couples, and adolescents. I enjoy the balance of working with a variety of people, and also feel passionate about making counseling a healthy place for men too. I take people serious and we can have fun too. Typical sessions involve more laughter than tears and are sprinkled with talk of sports, current events, and family.
![Photo of Jennie Pedersen-Coulter, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80fcc021-e26e-4888-b039-80acf0446396/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have particular interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma through the use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ) to move towards healing from the symptoms and emotional distress resulting from traumatic life experiences.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional serving West Des Moines and the surrounding areas. I work from a trauma-sensitive, client-centered approach. I feel passionate about creating a safe space where you can express your concerns, feel heard and understood, and work towards your desired goals. I have experience working with adults and adolescents on a variety of issues and concerns including but not limited to trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-worth, relationship/communication issues, life transitions and stress management.
I have particular interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma through the use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ) to move towards healing from the symptoms and emotional distress resulting from traumatic life experiences.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional serving West Des Moines and the surrounding areas. I work from a trauma-sensitive, client-centered approach. I feel passionate about creating a safe space where you can express your concerns, feel heard and understood, and work towards your desired goals. I have experience working with adults and adolescents on a variety of issues and concerns including but not limited to trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-worth, relationship/communication issues, life transitions and stress management.
![Photo of Patrick Turpin, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c540b64e-f630-41d0-b505-371bd0b7c820/3/320x400.jpeg)
Patrick utilizes a variety of approaches including CBT, mindfulness, EMDR and other therapeutic interventions.
Patrick is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who brings humor and authenticity to his work with adolescents and adults. He has experience working with a variety of concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, grief and loss and other life experiences. He believes that each person has a unique story that has shaped their attitudes and experiences. Through his work he strives to foster a safe space where clients can tell their story, gain insight into how those experiences impact daily life, and create a new reality that is more fulfilling, meaningful, and purpose driven.
Patrick utilizes a variety of approaches including CBT, mindfulness, EMDR and other therapeutic interventions.
Patrick is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who brings humor and authenticity to his work with adolescents and adults. He has experience working with a variety of concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, grief and loss and other life experiences. He believes that each person has a unique story that has shaped their attitudes and experiences. Through his work he strives to foster a safe space where clients can tell their story, gain insight into how those experiences impact daily life, and create a new reality that is more fulfilling, meaningful, and purpose driven.
![Photo of Blaine Conrad, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/513f0bc4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Blaine Conrad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Finding the right therapist for you is important. In order to know if I might be the right fit for you, here are a few things about me and my work with clients. I enjoy supporting clients on their healing journey. The types of clients I have the most experience working with would be individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I work with both children and adults. My main approach to treatment is EMDR therapy.
Finding the right therapist for you is important. In order to know if I might be the right fit for you, here are a few things about me and my work with clients. I enjoy supporting clients on their healing journey. The types of clients I have the most experience working with would be individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I work with both children and adults. My main approach to treatment is EMDR therapy.
![Photo of Marypat McMahon, MACJ, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cf71a48-94cd-427f-a18a-1ba5c4fa8f1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marypat McMahon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MACJ, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
I am certified in trauma work and am EMDR trained.
I am a Clinician with a great deal of "life experience". So much of what we struggle with is nothing new. However, without sharing that pain we can stay stuck in the depression and anxiety of our thought. In the past I have worked with parents, families and in the school setting. I have also worked as a clinical therapist. Wherever I have ventured though, I have always seen the importance of "relationship" in therapy. I so look forward to helping you reach your goals.
I am certified in trauma work and am EMDR trained.
I am a Clinician with a great deal of "life experience". So much of what we struggle with is nothing new. However, without sharing that pain we can stay stuck in the depression and anxiety of our thought. In the past I have worked with parents, families and in the school setting. I have also worked as a clinical therapist. Wherever I have ventured though, I have always seen the importance of "relationship" in therapy. I so look forward to helping you reach your goals.
![Photo of Kristine Lindell, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b682d3e5-b4dc-403c-81e2-8e5e5d907eb4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Traditional & trauma-informed methods such as EMDR & CBT are integrated with expressive arts, Reiki, & mindfulness practices to promote holistic wellness.
Serving adults, kids, and teens, I know all the challenges and transitions we face in life can be overwhelming. It can be so difficult to feel whole and healthy after experiencing hardship, trauma, anxiety, depression, or high levels of stress. If you-or someone you love-is feeling stuck, ungrounded, or overwhelmed, I offer guidance to heal deeply. Using techniques that address body/mind/soul, I invite you to heal in a way that honors all that you are, & all that you've been through. With the right support, the severity of symptoms of ADHD, depression & anxiety, life transitions, grief, or other struggles can be reduced.
Traditional & trauma-informed methods such as EMDR & CBT are integrated with expressive arts, Reiki, & mindfulness practices to promote holistic wellness.
Serving adults, kids, and teens, I know all the challenges and transitions we face in life can be overwhelming. It can be so difficult to feel whole and healthy after experiencing hardship, trauma, anxiety, depression, or high levels of stress. If you-or someone you love-is feeling stuck, ungrounded, or overwhelmed, I offer guidance to heal deeply. Using techniques that address body/mind/soul, I invite you to heal in a way that honors all that you are, & all that you've been through. With the right support, the severity of symptoms of ADHD, depression & anxiety, life transitions, grief, or other struggles can be reduced.
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![Photo of Danielle Stange, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a44728e-7b3d-40d5-be25-c16375735495/1/320x400.png)
Danielle Stange
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I utilize a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma- Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Strengths-Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I believe that the key to a positive therapeutic experience is creating a space where clients feel that their knowledge of their lives, their strengths, and their struggles is valued and heard without judgment. While therapy is often utilized in times of crisis, it can also be a space to understand yourself on a deeper level and gain skills to help reduce the intensity or frequency of future crises. I will work with you to explore the beliefs you hold about yourself, others, or the world and how these beliefs impact different areas of your life. I believe that therapy is flexible and can be whatever you need it to be in this moment.
I utilize a variety of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma- Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Strengths-Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I believe that the key to a positive therapeutic experience is creating a space where clients feel that their knowledge of their lives, their strengths, and their struggles is valued and heard without judgment. While therapy is often utilized in times of crisis, it can also be a space to understand yourself on a deeper level and gain skills to help reduce the intensity or frequency of future crises. I will work with you to explore the beliefs you hold about yourself, others, or the world and how these beliefs impact different areas of your life. I believe that therapy is flexible and can be whatever you need it to be in this moment.
![Photo of Lindsey Olsen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dad1bb6c-81df-489b-9133-4d81b4a2fa06/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsey Olsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to meet their desired goals. I have an interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma and/or PTSD. I am a certified therapist in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a type of therapy that enables people to heal from symptoms and/or emotional distress that can result from disturbing life experiences. I also work with clients experiencing somatic (body) issues from traumatic experiences. Please do not hesitate to ask questions about specific issues you would like to address.
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to meet their desired goals. I have an interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma and/or PTSD. I am a certified therapist in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a type of therapy that enables people to heal from symptoms and/or emotional distress that can result from disturbing life experiences. I also work with clients experiencing somatic (body) issues from traumatic experiences. Please do not hesitate to ask questions about specific issues you would like to address.
![Photo of Carrie Leaf, MS, LMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8474f5b5-67b2-467f-9456-c4d5c4d1cca3/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in EMDR.
Hello and welcome! For two decades now, I have helped clients break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. Life's too short to be unhappy, unsure, or unfulfilled. I will help you learn and develop better ways to handle the issues that are keeping you stuck. I take a holistic approach. Offering: Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, & more: Are you ready for a change? You don't have to do it alone. My goal is to work together with you to help you better understand yourself in a way that promotes growth and change as well as to help you & your relationships reach their maximum potential.
I am trained in EMDR.
Hello and welcome! For two decades now, I have helped clients break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. Life's too short to be unhappy, unsure, or unfulfilled. I will help you learn and develop better ways to handle the issues that are keeping you stuck. I take a holistic approach. Offering: Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, & more: Are you ready for a change? You don't have to do it alone. My goal is to work together with you to help you better understand yourself in a way that promotes growth and change as well as to help you & your relationships reach their maximum potential.
![Photo of Natalie Lonsdale Gruss, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01f5c036-b272-4772-8b19-db188178ca85/3/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Lonsdale Gruss
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
My experiences with EMDR and IFS have demonstrated that people have the potential to heal from anything.
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 19 years of experience working with a variety of clients from different backgrounds, nationalities, identities and orientations. I work closely with clients to create personalized goals and am trained in a wide range of issues including: anxiety, panic, depression, PTSD, identity, sexuality, body image, survivors of trauma, adult children of alcoholics, postpartum depression/anxiety, grief/loss, and many others. If you want to feel better, I am here to help!
My experiences with EMDR and IFS have demonstrated that people have the potential to heal from anything.
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 19 years of experience working with a variety of clients from different backgrounds, nationalities, identities and orientations. I work closely with clients to create personalized goals and am trained in a wide range of issues including: anxiety, panic, depression, PTSD, identity, sexuality, body image, survivors of trauma, adult children of alcoholics, postpartum depression/anxiety, grief/loss, and many others. If you want to feel better, I am here to help!
![Photo of Annie Steil, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dbf44b8-c5da-4ef6-9329-e4e5e31d7c41/1/320x400.jpeg)
My goal is to create a safe, open environment for you to come and express feelings and successfully work through problems. I strive for you to feel safe, accepted and validated. I use CBT, TFCBT, and I am newly trained in EMDR. I am nurturing, nonjudgmental, supportive, and like to use humor when appropriate. I enjoy working with individuals. Kids (10 and up), teens, and adults. I accept Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance, Aetna, as well as United Health Care Insurance. I look forward to meeting you!
My goal is to create a safe, open environment for you to come and express feelings and successfully work through problems. I strive for you to feel safe, accepted and validated. I use CBT, TFCBT, and I am newly trained in EMDR. I am nurturing, nonjudgmental, supportive, and like to use humor when appropriate. I enjoy working with individuals. Kids (10 and up), teens, and adults. I accept Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance, Aetna, as well as United Health Care Insurance. I look forward to meeting you!
![Photo of Samantha Rives, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecf6cfe0-215b-42e5-b51c-6ead3cad25f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize EMDR therapy and Somatic Experiencing in my collaborative approach, applying how breath work, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation are essential when addressing the impact of chronic stress and trauma.
Are you noticing tension and discomfort in your body? I believe that this is often easier to notice than what might be contributing to your symptoms, things like anxiety, stress, or trauma. We tend to push on and avoid taking good care of ourselves, despite feeling depressed, managing grief, and experiencing life challenges. We can find ourselves feeling burned out, struggling to function in our daily lives, and needing to reconnect with ourselves and those around us. Wherever you’re at in your healing and wellness journey, I’d love to help you along the way.
I utilize EMDR therapy and Somatic Experiencing in my collaborative approach, applying how breath work, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation are essential when addressing the impact of chronic stress and trauma.
Are you noticing tension and discomfort in your body? I believe that this is often easier to notice than what might be contributing to your symptoms, things like anxiety, stress, or trauma. We tend to push on and avoid taking good care of ourselves, despite feeling depressed, managing grief, and experiencing life challenges. We can find ourselves feeling burned out, struggling to function in our daily lives, and needing to reconnect with ourselves and those around us. Wherever you’re at in your healing and wellness journey, I’d love to help you along the way.
![Photo of Rachel M Klobassa, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ede955b9-70f8-4a2b-bd97-41db01d6c0dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an EMDR Certified therapist and founding board member for Post Partum Support International, IA and served a three year term.
I focus on creating a therapeutic relationship that is cooperative, trusting and encouraging. I aim to create a safe, open environment for my clients to express their feelings and work through issues while feeling accepted and validated. I am an active therapist that offers suggestions, tools, action plans and homework based upon my client’s needs. I consider myself direct and straight forward but also steady and nurturing. I bring my authentic self to the therapeutic relationship which includes small doses of humor and sarcasm when appropriate!
I am an EMDR Certified therapist and founding board member for Post Partum Support International, IA and served a three year term.
I focus on creating a therapeutic relationship that is cooperative, trusting and encouraging. I aim to create a safe, open environment for my clients to express their feelings and work through issues while feeling accepted and validated. I am an active therapist that offers suggestions, tools, action plans and homework based upon my client’s needs. I consider myself direct and straight forward but also steady and nurturing. I bring my authentic self to the therapeutic relationship which includes small doses of humor and sarcasm when appropriate!
![Photo of Bridgette Hensley, PsyD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/916e9b8f-bd83-4202-a3d5-e12ca291826f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive training in trauma treatment (including EMDR), as well as suicide assessment and prevention education and training.
I enjoy working with diverse clients on issues of depression, anxiety (especially OCD and Panic Disorder), ADHD, relational issues, trauma, as well as sexual orientation and gender identity issues. I am committed to providing a safe and secure environment in which we can develop a trusting, unconditional, and genuine relationship, in which I can help you direct your own resources and strengths toward health and healing.
I have extensive training in trauma treatment (including EMDR), as well as suicide assessment and prevention education and training.
I enjoy working with diverse clients on issues of depression, anxiety (especially OCD and Panic Disorder), ADHD, relational issues, trauma, as well as sexual orientation and gender identity issues. I am committed to providing a safe and secure environment in which we can develop a trusting, unconditional, and genuine relationship, in which I can help you direct your own resources and strengths toward health and healing.
![Photo of Lauren Baker, LISW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2544585-fad6-4315-bb3a-e67cc59b3aee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren is a Licensed Independent Social Worker. She graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and went on to receive her Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa in 2009. Lauren practices research-based therapeutic interventions, including EMDR, to support others in finding their path to coping and healing. She is passionate about helping to build self-awareness, perspectives, hope, courage and wisdom.
Lauren is a Licensed Independent Social Worker. She graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and went on to receive her Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa in 2009. Lauren practices research-based therapeutic interventions, including EMDR, to support others in finding their path to coping and healing. She is passionate about helping to build self-awareness, perspectives, hope, courage and wisdom.
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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.