EMDR Therapists in Ada, MI

Photo of Amanda Martin, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ada, MI 49301
Using specifically focused techniques (EMDR/others) that I fit to your specific needs, I can assist you in working through and addressing troubling thoughts, trauma history, and neurodivergence to allow you to find relief and balance.
Are you working with a little anxiety (or really maybe alot actually) or depression? Encountered trauma? Are you in the perinatal period, a new parent and need support for postpartum anxiety, or depression or birth trauma? Looking to navigate being neurodivergent now that you've tried to navigate being an adult or parent? As a therapist I can always appreciate the vulnerability that a person can have when seeking out therapy, so it is my goal to make you feel at ease when you show up to work on any or all of these things at your pace and how I can create a safe space for you to be you and explore, well, life and it's impact on you.
Using specifically focused techniques (EMDR/others) that I fit to your specific needs, I can assist you in working through and addressing troubling thoughts, trauma history, and neurodivergence to allow you to find relief and balance.
Are you working with a little anxiety (or really maybe alot actually) or depression? Encountered trauma? Are you in the perinatal period, a new parent and need support for postpartum anxiety, or depression or birth trauma? Looking to navigate being neurodivergent now that you've tried to navigate being an adult or parent? As a therapist I can always appreciate the vulnerability that a person can have when seeking out therapy, so it is my goal to make you feel at ease when you show up to work on any or all of these things at your pace and how I can create a safe space for you to be you and explore, well, life and it's impact on you.
(616) 920-8071 View (616) 920-8071
Photo of Melissa Jean Champion, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Jean Champion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Ada, MI 49301
I have experience with multiple theoretical approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, EMDR and Mindfulness (among others).
Have you experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, or substance use concerns? Do you recognize struggles with self worth, or feeling like you can't stay grounded or present in your everyday life? These can be very difficult problems to navigate, and therapy can help. I believe healing takes place through our relationships with others, and I provide a judgement free safe space to help this happen. I love to work with adolescents (16+) and adults on their own healing journey and guide you in finding your own strength in the process.
I have experience with multiple theoretical approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, EMDR and Mindfulness (among others).
Have you experienced anxiety, depression, trauma, or substance use concerns? Do you recognize struggles with self worth, or feeling like you can't stay grounded or present in your everyday life? These can be very difficult problems to navigate, and therapy can help. I believe healing takes place through our relationships with others, and I provide a judgement free safe space to help this happen. I love to work with adolescents (16+) and adults on their own healing journey and guide you in finding your own strength in the process.
(616) 201-0852 View (616) 201-0852
Photo of Cheryl L. Cooper, MA, LPC, LMFT, Counselor
Cheryl L. Cooper
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ada, MI 49301
Waitlist for new clients
I also use EMDR to help clients work through traumatic experiences.
We all face challenges, but we don't need to face them alone. When you struggle with relationship issues, depression/anxiety, or other personal crises, you may feel alone, stuck, and helpless. As your therapist, I will come alongside you and help you to move forward with a greater sense of well-being and empowerment.
I also use EMDR to help clients work through traumatic experiences.
We all face challenges, but we don't need to face them alone. When you struggle with relationship issues, depression/anxiety, or other personal crises, you may feel alone, stuck, and helpless. As your therapist, I will come alongside you and help you to move forward with a greater sense of well-being and empowerment.
(616) 432-2665 View (616) 432-2665
Photo of Jerry Paredes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jerry Paredes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ada, MI 49301
I use evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Are you feeling overwhelmed, having relationship difficulties, or possibly trying to overcome an addiction? Contemplating whether or not therapy can help? Let me say, this is the moment to do something different in your life. Whether you feel that your relationship is stuck in the same repetitive pattern; or trying to overcome an addiction; or maybe having difficulties in day-to-day life due to prior traumatic experiences. I can help you gain a better understanding of not only how trauma impacts our daily functioning; but how relationships work, and how problems can be resolved in even the most challenging situations.
I use evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Are you feeling overwhelmed, having relationship difficulties, or possibly trying to overcome an addiction? Contemplating whether or not therapy can help? Let me say, this is the moment to do something different in your life. Whether you feel that your relationship is stuck in the same repetitive pattern; or trying to overcome an addiction; or maybe having difficulties in day-to-day life due to prior traumatic experiences. I can help you gain a better understanding of not only how trauma impacts our daily functioning; but how relationships work, and how problems can be resolved in even the most challenging situations.
(616) 512-0979 View (616) 512-0979
Photo of Elizabeth Raese, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Elizabeth Raese
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ada, MI 49301
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience in trauma treatment (including TFCBT and EMDR) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Therapy is an invitation to begin where you are, just as you are. My first goal is to listen well and to seek to understand you. While my training includes many therapeutic approaches informed by research, I see therapy most of all as a creative process that unfolds within a genuine relationship. I believe that good therapy is flexible and responsive - it can be gentle and compassionate, serious and tough, and sometimes even very funny.
I have extensive experience in trauma treatment (including TFCBT and EMDR) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Therapy is an invitation to begin where you are, just as you are. My first goal is to listen well and to seek to understand you. While my training includes many therapeutic approaches informed by research, I see therapy most of all as a creative process that unfolds within a genuine relationship. I believe that good therapy is flexible and responsive - it can be gentle and compassionate, serious and tough, and sometimes even very funny.
(616) 303-5470 View (616) 303-5470
Photo of Shannon Geneen Kelly, LCSW-S, MPA, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Geneen Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MPA, LCDC
Verified Verified
Ada, MI 49301  (Online Only)
Do people believe you have it all together, or do you put on a brave face to conceal the pain? Your feelings are valid, and your healing journey is important. I specialize in healing from trauma, enhancing self-esteem, and mending relationships, employing EMDR, IFS, CPT, and DBT, alongside mindfulness, somatic work, and creative expression. Guiding you through increasing your confidence, fostering healthy relationships, and cultivating a positive self-view for lasting well-being
Do people believe you have it all together, or do you put on a brave face to conceal the pain? Your feelings are valid, and your healing journey is important. I specialize in healing from trauma, enhancing self-esteem, and mending relationships, employing EMDR, IFS, CPT, and DBT, alongside mindfulness, somatic work, and creative expression. Guiding you through increasing your confidence, fostering healthy relationships, and cultivating a positive self-view for lasting well-being
(269) 225-3737 View (269) 225-3737
Photo of Hiral Patel, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Hiral Patel
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ada, MI 49301
I am an EMDR (recommended therapy for trauma survivors) and Hypnotherapy trained therapist.
Have you found yourself in a difficult or complicated relationship that has caused you to feel anxious, helpless, doubt decisions, or feel broken? Are you having difficulty talking to others about your struggles? Fearing that others may not understand you or judge you. I am here to help you and guide you to access your power within you to take control of your life and begin the process of healing to move forward. With a non-judgmental and compassionate presence, I will offer support needed for you to carefully work through challenges and experience healing to begin living a more satisfying life.
I am an EMDR (recommended therapy for trauma survivors) and Hypnotherapy trained therapist.
Have you found yourself in a difficult or complicated relationship that has caused you to feel anxious, helpless, doubt decisions, or feel broken? Are you having difficulty talking to others about your struggles? Fearing that others may not understand you or judge you. I am here to help you and guide you to access your power within you to take control of your life and begin the process of healing to move forward. With a non-judgmental and compassionate presence, I will offer support needed for you to carefully work through challenges and experience healing to begin living a more satisfying life.
(616) 965-2224 View (616) 965-2224
Photo of Amy Parks-Williams, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Parks-Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ada, MI 49301  (Online Only)
I have additional training in evidence based trauma focused CBT and have specialized training in EMDR.
Every step taken in the pursuit of happiness, health, and wellness is a gift you give to yourself and to those around you. Making the first steps toward necessary change can be difficult, but with every step comes growth, awareness and renewed balance. Life presents us with so many challenges and finding support during these difficult times can be very helpful. I will encourage you to identify and draw from the internal strengths you have as well as introducing you to the therapeutic approaches that guide my practice to assist you in coping with the challenges you are experiencing.
I have additional training in evidence based trauma focused CBT and have specialized training in EMDR.
Every step taken in the pursuit of happiness, health, and wellness is a gift you give to yourself and to those around you. Making the first steps toward necessary change can be difficult, but with every step comes growth, awareness and renewed balance. Life presents us with so many challenges and finding support during these difficult times can be very helpful. I will encourage you to identify and draw from the internal strengths you have as well as introducing you to the therapeutic approaches that guide my practice to assist you in coping with the challenges you are experiencing.
(616) 512-1679 x701 View (616) 512-1679 x701
Photo of Brendan Cole, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brendan Cole
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ada, MI 49301
Are you looking for something more than the status quo? I have expertise using EMDR Therapy to increase peak performance in areas such as sports, business, relationships, acting, and music. I also have years of experience in traditional counseling and can help with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, resolving trauma & PTSD symptoms. I also have experience with sports psychology. Many large changes happen between 18-40 and am glad to help you feel like yourself again. I have advanced training to combine talk-therapy with EMDR Therapy as well as narrative techniques that are aimed at getting you the results you desire.
Are you looking for something more than the status quo? I have expertise using EMDR Therapy to increase peak performance in areas such as sports, business, relationships, acting, and music. I also have years of experience in traditional counseling and can help with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, resolving trauma & PTSD symptoms. I also have experience with sports psychology. Many large changes happen between 18-40 and am glad to help you feel like yourself again. I have advanced training to combine talk-therapy with EMDR Therapy as well as narrative techniques that are aimed at getting you the results you desire.
(616) 205-9648 View (616) 205-9648
Photo of Shaina McPhetridge, LMFT, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shaina McPhetridge
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ada, MI 49301
I have extensive experience in healing trauma through EMDR, somatic therapy, parts work, honesty and humor.
Life can lead us down some pretty confusing paths sometimes, leaving us feeling crazy, unsettled, and totally lost. You don't have to feel like this forever. I work with individuals, couples, and teens who need relief - from PTSD, negative beliefs, anxiety, panic and stress, relationship problems, and other unresolved issues that continue to impact your current life. Many of my clients are insightful, curious, growth-oriented people who are seeking something beyond traditional therapy. My focus is on helping you to unpack the weight you've been carrying over the years and free up whatever it is that seems to be stuck.
I have extensive experience in healing trauma through EMDR, somatic therapy, parts work, honesty and humor.
Life can lead us down some pretty confusing paths sometimes, leaving us feeling crazy, unsettled, and totally lost. You don't have to feel like this forever. I work with individuals, couples, and teens who need relief - from PTSD, negative beliefs, anxiety, panic and stress, relationship problems, and other unresolved issues that continue to impact your current life. Many of my clients are insightful, curious, growth-oriented people who are seeking something beyond traditional therapy. My focus is on helping you to unpack the weight you've been carrying over the years and free up whatever it is that seems to be stuck.
(310) 935-3665 View (310) 935-3665
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
Ada, MI 49301
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 Amy Hubbard, MA, LPC, LLP, Counselor
Amy Hubbard
Counselor, MA, LPC, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ada, MI 49301
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 Susan Jongekryg Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, LMSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Jongekryg Certified Sex Addiction Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ada, MI 49301
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR-trained, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), IFS-informed.
Are you having trouble coping with your emotions due to a traumatic experience in your life? Many suffer from childhood sexual abuse, betrayal trauma, or sexual addiction. You are not alone! I collaborate with people seeking to transform past suffering into meaning and purpose in their lives. I believe passionately that to live a fulfilled life, one must continue to grow and adapt. I feel a profound sense of gratitude to be able to help others on their path to emotional healing.
EMDR-trained, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), IFS-informed.
Are you having trouble coping with your emotions due to a traumatic experience in your life? Many suffer from childhood sexual abuse, betrayal trauma, or sexual addiction. You are not alone! I collaborate with people seeking to transform past suffering into meaning and purpose in their lives. I believe passionately that to live a fulfilled life, one must continue to grow and adapt. I feel a profound sense of gratitude to be able to help others on their path to emotional healing.
(616) 678-2083 View (616) 678-2083
Photo of Rob Conrad, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rob Conrad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ada, MI 49301
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
Photo of Andrew David Clay - Bethany Christian Services - Grand Rapids, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Christian Services - Grand Rapids
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Ada, MI 49301
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 Julie Edwards, LLP, LPC, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Julie Edwards
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ada, MI 49301
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 Deborah Westrate, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah Westrate
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Ada, MI 49301
Using your body's own natural healing process, I use Run Therapy, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, play-based techniques, and Somatic Experiencing to help you rewrite your story in a way that empowers you and your family to meet your goals, build resilience, and live well.
Life is harder than you ever imagined it would be. Whether it's your painful past that keeps showing up in your present, difficulty in completing tasks and staying focus, or the anxiety and stress from things that are out of your control, you just can't find your way out of the struggle. Maybe it's your child or teenager who is struggling and needs someone else to help them find their joy and peace. A positive change is possible. Hope can be realized and joy can be a regular part of your life again.
Using your body's own natural healing process, I use Run Therapy, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, play-based techniques, and Somatic Experiencing to help you rewrite your story in a way that empowers you and your family to meet your goals, build resilience, and live well.
Life is harder than you ever imagined it would be. Whether it's your painful past that keeps showing up in your present, difficulty in completing tasks and staying focus, or the anxiety and stress from things that are out of your control, you just can't find your way out of the struggle. Maybe it's your child or teenager who is struggling and needs someone else to help them find their joy and peace. A positive change is possible. Hope can be realized and joy can be a regular part of your life again.
(616) 512-0076 View (616) 512-0076
Photo of Rachel Dahlgren, LCSW, LMSW
Rachel Dahlgren
Master Social Worker, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ada, MI 49301  (Online Only)
I am trained in using a variety of therapeutic techniques including CBT and EMDR.
Hi! Do you struggle with low self-esteem? You may find yourself making negative comments about yourself, being overly self-critical, or blaming yourself for things that go wrong. I help women struggling with low self-esteem grow their love and acceptance for themselves so that they can reduce anxiety and feel at peace within. Many of us struggle with a harsh inner critic telling us that we're not good enough, smart enough, pretty enough, etc. In sessions, I focus on creating an emotionally safe space so that together, we can work towards your goals of quieting the inner critic and growing your self-esteem so you feel good enough!
I am trained in using a variety of therapeutic techniques including CBT and EMDR.
Hi! Do you struggle with low self-esteem? You may find yourself making negative comments about yourself, being overly self-critical, or blaming yourself for things that go wrong. I help women struggling with low self-esteem grow their love and acceptance for themselves so that they can reduce anxiety and feel at peace within. Many of us struggle with a harsh inner critic telling us that we're not good enough, smart enough, pretty enough, etc. In sessions, I focus on creating an emotionally safe space so that together, we can work towards your goals of quieting the inner critic and growing your self-esteem so you feel good enough!
(616) 201-0742 View (616) 201-0742
Photo of Karen Weiman - Karen Weiman - Trauma Therapist, LISW-S, LMSW, PMH-C, LICDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Weiman - Trauma Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LMSW, PMH-C, LICDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ada, MI 49301  (Online Only)
I use EMDR and NARM therapies, and offer Intensives if you are wanting an accelerated therapy to feel better even faster.
You appear driven and put together on the outside, but are struggling internally. You want relief. Perhaps the anxiety is the result of something that happened to you. If your life is inhibited by your past in any way, this is the right place for you. I can help you find what is on the other side of the anxiety and fear, which could be peace, relief, and authenticity. I have intensive and specialized training in Trauma, PTSD and the resulting anxiety that comes from overwhelming or unsafe situations & people.
I use EMDR and NARM therapies, and offer Intensives if you are wanting an accelerated therapy to feel better even faster.
You appear driven and put together on the outside, but are struggling internally. You want relief. Perhaps the anxiety is the result of something that happened to you. If your life is inhibited by your past in any way, this is the right place for you. I can help you find what is on the other side of the anxiety and fear, which could be peace, relief, and authenticity. I have intensive and specialized training in Trauma, PTSD and the resulting anxiety that comes from overwhelming or unsafe situations & people.
(740) 685-4452 View (740) 685-4452
Photo of Misty LaFree, MA, LPC, Counselor
Misty LaFree
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ada, MI 49301
Hello! I'm Misty! I work with children, adolescents, and families! My specialization is ages 12-18, but I work with kids as young as 5. I use numerous approaches to meet the needs of my clients. I am working toward my registered play therapy (RPT) credential and utilize play, art, and Sand Tray to make therapy exciting for kids! I invite caregivers into the therapeutic process so the healing can continue happening at home. For adolescents, I utilize talk therapy or some of the above techniques to help process. Additionally, I engage in EMDR and have limited availability for individuals experiencing domestic violence.
Hello! I'm Misty! I work with children, adolescents, and families! My specialization is ages 12-18, but I work with kids as young as 5. I use numerous approaches to meet the needs of my clients. I am working toward my registered play therapy (RPT) credential and utilize play, art, and Sand Tray to make therapy exciting for kids! I invite caregivers into the therapeutic process so the healing can continue happening at home. For adolescents, I utilize talk therapy or some of the above techniques to help process. Additionally, I engage in EMDR and have limited availability for individuals experiencing domestic violence.
(616) 253-6648 View (616) 253-6648
1
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.