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FOR ONGOING & ADJUNCT CLIENTS

Standard EMDR Therapy in Redondo Beach

At Catherine Alvarado, LMFT & Associates, we offer Standard EMDR integrated into a traditional 50-minute therapy session, with adjunct clients able to choose this format or schedule longer intensive sessions.

BASED IN REDONDO BEACH, CA

50-Minute EMDR Treatment Option


At Catherine Alvarado, LMFT & Associates, EMDR can be scheduled in the traditional 50-minute therapy hour. We call this Standard EMDR. This option is available for ongoing clients who want EMDR integrated into their regular therapy, as well as adjunct clients who wish to try EMDR therapy.

Standard EMDR may be a good fit for:

  • Clients wanting to process trauma in shorter, structured sessions

  • Those who prefer the familiarity of a typical therapy hour

  • Adjunct clients seeking flexibility in how often they schedule EMDR

What to Expect from Standard EMDR

In the standard 50-minute format, EMDR provides a steady yet adaptable pace for reprocessing difficult memories. Sessions can be scheduled weekly, biweekly, or as needed, giving clients the flexibility to move at a rhythm that feels right for them.

For ongoing clients, EMDR can be woven into regular therapy, balancing reprocessing with space to address current concerns. For adjunct clients, this option works as a stand-alone service—whether to focus on a specific issue or to complement the therapy they’re receiving elsewhere.

This format keeps EMDR both accessible and effective. By using the traditional therapy hour, clients gain consistent support, the ability to process trauma at a manageable pace, and the tools to build long-term resilience.

EVEN IN A SINGLE HOUR

EMDR can support meaningful change.

common concerns

When Standard EMDR May Be Helpful

Footprints in the sand, symbolizing the steps of healing and progress made through EMDR therapy, featured on the Standard EMDR page.
  • Disturbing images or memories

  • Distressing sensations or emotions

  • Specific situations that feel triggering

  • Lingering negative beliefs about yourself or the world

  • Anxiety and fear tied to past, present, or anticipated future experiences

  • Flashbacks or intrusive thoughts

  • Nightmares or sleep disturbances

  • Shame, guilt, or self-blame connected to past events

  • Avoidance of places, people, or activities

  • Loss, grief, or unresolved sadness

  • Performance anxiety or fear of failure

  • Phobias and specific fears

  • Feeling “stuck” in old patterns or cycles

  • Emotional numbness or disconnection

  • Panic attacks or sudden waves of fear

  • 8 Phases

    EMDR therapy follows eight structured phases that provide a clear roadmap for healing. At the same time, the process isn’t always linear—you may move back and forth between phases depending on your readiness and what comes up in session.

  • BLS Options

    EMDR therapy uses bilateral stimulation (BLS) to help the brain process experiences more effectively. BLS can be done in different ways—such as eye movements, tapping, or sound—and your therapist will work with you to find the option that feels most comfortable and supportive.

  • Schedule As Needed

    Standard EMDR sessions can be integrated into ongoing therapy or added as adjunct work. They can be scheduled weekly, biweekly, or as often as feels right, giving you the flexibility to move at your own pace. The exact number of EMDR sessions needed for complete relief varies.

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Catherine alvarado, lmft & associates

Experienced EMDR Therapists in the South Bay Area

At Catherine Alvarado, LMFT & Associates, our team provides specialized EMDR therapy within the traditional 50-minute therapy hour. Each therapist is trained to integrate EMDR into standard sessions, making it possible to address trauma, anxiety, and other challenges while continuing talk therapy and supportive care.

We combine evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, CBT, and mindfulness practices to help clients reduce distress, shift unhelpful patterns, and build emotional resilience. This integrative style ensures that EMDR fits naturally into the flow of ongoing therapy, offering flexibility while keeping sessions grounded.


Standard EMDR therapy is available in person at our Redondo Beach office and online throughout California, making it accessible to clients in the South Bay—including Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Torrance, Palos Verdes, and surrounding communities.

  • Catherine Alvarado, LMFT – Certified EMDR Therapist and Clinical Supervisor in Redondo Beach

    Catherine Alvarado, LMFT 134744

    OWNER & CLINICAL SUPERVISOR

    Catherine Alvarado, LMFT, is a licensed Redondo Beach therapist, EMDR Certified Therapist & Consultant in Training specializing in anxiety, trauma, and EMDR therapy for adults, teens, and children. Learn More

  • Emily Feldt Shabel, AMFT – Associate Therapist providing EMDR at Catherine Alvarado, LMFT & Associates in Redondo Beach

    Emily Feldt Shabel, AMFT 151325

    SUPERVISED BY CATHERINE ALVARADO, LMFT 134744

    Emily is a registered associate therapist in Redondo Beach, specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy for relationships, self-esteem, and creative professionals. Learn More

  • Monika Arana, AMFT – Associate Therapist offering EMDR therapy at Catherine Alvarado, LMFT & Associates in Redondo Beach

    Monika Arana, AMFT 140548

    SUPERVISED BY CATHERINE ALVARADO, LMFT 134744

    Monika is a registered associate therapist in Redondo Beach, specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy for trauma, inner child work, and nervous system regulation. Learn More

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