Frequently Asked Questions for EMDR Therapy
It can be a struggle trying to restore a sense of safety and calm. If you feel extremely stuck, are having trouble coping with intrusive memories, harmful thoughts, or self doubt then utilizing EMDR may be right for you.
Many people have questions about how to start EMDR therapy and what they need to know. Here are essential questions and answers about EMDR. Please read through them and contact me or request an appointment if you have any further questions or concerns.
EMDR is a simple but efficient therapy that helps clients reprocess images, self-thoughts, emotions, and body sensations trapped in the past. It can be helpful approach especially for those who have already tried talk based therapies yet continue to feel stuck or overwhelmed.
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing.
Yes! EMDR therapy is one of the most effective types of treatment for trauma. It is not solely used to treat trauma. It can be helpful in addressing a variety of symptoms that can scar the mind.
EMDR can help people who struggle with a wide range of stressful issues. It is most commonly used to address symptoms of trauma. EMDR may also be helpful for those who have already tried talk based therapies yet continue to feel stuck or overwhelmed.
While it is possible to see a therapist just for EMDR, I will typically use EMDR as part of an integrated treatment plan. Better results often come from using EMDR in collaboration with other therapies.
EMDR is a phased, focused approach to treating trauma and other symptoms by reconnecting the client in a safe away to the images, self-thoughts, emotions, and body sensations associated with trauma. EMDR therapy uses bilateral stimulation to enhance and strengthen existing tools and those introduced during sessions. It also accelerates the brain’s capacity to process and heal a troubling experience.
Yes! Some people experience trauma symptoms after a specific event, such as a car accident or breakup. Trauma affects both the mind and body. Our sense of sight, sound, smell, and touch all create deep memories of a situation when trauma occurs and can also trigger emotions felt at the time of trauma. EMDR can be used to process the details and sensations that occured during the time of trauma and help the mind and body make new connections to process the trauma fully.
Yes! People develop very personal coping mechanisms that may not always be traced back to a single event.
EMDR can help with identifying negative beliefs that are blocking ones ability to feel less stress while building and strengthening healthy coping strategies.
Bilateral Stimulation is the use of alternating right, left stimulation with the help of visual, auditory, or tactile stimuli. Bilateral stimulation helps activate and integrate information from the brain’s two hemispheres.
Yes! EMDR can be done from your home or in the office. We can discuss further what format would be most appropriate for your needs.
I will typically use EMDR as part of an integrated treatment plan. Each individual reacts differently to EMDR therapy and time spent in each phase varies. A typical session will last anywhere between 50-90 minutes.
My fees are $150 for 50 minute sessions and I also offer 90 minute sessions at $225 for EMDR focused sessions or those individuals that request more time.
Therapy typically occurs on a weekly basis. I have found that meeting at this consistency is helpful for building a stronger therapeutic relationship and allows time for clients to effectively address presenting issues. There are times, however, when it is appropriate to meet more or less frequently based on a client’s needs.
A typical EMDR focused therapy session will last anywhere between 50-90 minutes.
Typically therapy sessions start at 50 minutes and can be extended to 90 minutes for EMDR focused sessions to allow appropriate time for reprocessing and closure.
I accept PPO health insurance plans as an “out of network” provider. This means that I can provide a Superbill at the end of each month for you to submit to your insurance for reimbursement.
EMDR sessions can be longer than the standard 50 minutes, therefore it is important to clarify with your insurance company whether they will cover longer sessions.
I uphold a 48-hour cancellation policy. Clients must cancel or reschedule an appointment at least 48-hours in advance or they will be responsible for paying the full session fee.
I offer a complimentary 15 minute initial phone consultation prior to starting therapy. To schedule a phone consultation contact me by phone 323.296.9846, email, or through the Contact Form.
Yes! I offer complimentary 15 minute phone consultations for all potential clients. To schedule a phone consultation to see if we are a good fit for each other and your goals, feel free to call me at 323.296.9846, email, or reach out through the Contact Form.
Finding the Right Therapist For You
Therapy sessions are designed to be a safe space for you to heal, grow, and empower your inner voice. I want to help you achieve your goals all the while inspiring you to live, learn, and lead with authentic purpose. I believe finding a comfortable match between therapist and client is essential to successful therapy. Whether we work together in the office or online, you will always have my support as we explore challenges and themes that keep you feeling stuck. Starting therapy for the first time or deciding that you could use some support can feel intimidating. Knowing this, it is my mission to ensure my clients feel comfortable and safe. The last thing I want to do is have therapy be an additional stress!
My office is located in Hermosa Beach and I have provided counseling and therapy services to teens and adults of all ages in Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, El Segundo, Torrance, and throughout the South Bay.
Scheduling Your First Session
Feel free to contact me at 323.296.9846 (please leave a voicemail with your name, number, and the best day/time to reach out you) or email. You may also request an appointment online by clicking the link below. I offer prospective clients a free 20 minute phone consultation to answer any specific questions and see if we might be a good fit. If you would like to, you may schedule an appointment online by clicking the button below.