Types of Therapy
"Therapeutic Modalities"
This page contains basic information on the types of therapy modalities I most often use in my practice. It is not required for you to know any of this, but it is here for those who may be interested in learning more about what we are doing in therapy.
I typically take an integrative approach, pulling from my training to customize treatment depending on your specific needs. If you are especially interested in a type of therapy, we can always discuss how we can focus on incorporate it into your sessions.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT therapy focuses on accepting the difficulties that come with life while committing to actions that will lead to a richer and more fulfilling life. It encourages individuals to embrace their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty for them. Key components include mindfulness techniques to help individuals observe thoughts and feelings without judgment, identifying personal values to guide behavior, and committing to actions that align with those values. ACT has been shown to be effective for a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, chronic pain, and more.
CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy):
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely practiced and researched forms of therapy. It is known for its effectiveness in treating a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. CBT helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to distress. It focuses on practical coping strategies that can be applied to everyday situations, promoting lasting change and improved well-being.
Coping Skills Development:
Coping skills development involves practical tools and techniques to manage stress, regulate emotions, and handle challenging situations effectively. It empowers individuals to build resilience and maintain emotional well-being in their daily lives.
DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy):
DBT combines CBT techniques with mindfulness practices, emphasizing skills for emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and tolerance of distress. It's particularly effective for individuals with intense emotions and difficulty managing relationships.
EMDR targets traumatic memories through guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation. It aims to reduce the emotional intensity and distress associated with traumatic experiences, facilitating healing and adaptive resolution of trauma.
Internal Family Systems Therapy
Internal Family Systems Therapy views the mind as a system of various subpersonalities or "parts." It helps clients identify and integrate these parts, promoting inner harmony and healing by accessing and resolving underlying conflicts.
Mindfulness Therapy:
Mindfulness therapy cultivates present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance of thoughts, feelings, and sensations. It helps reduce anxiety, depression, and stress by fostering a deeper understanding and connection with experiences.
Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic therapy explores unconscious processes and unresolved conflicts from the past that may influence current behaviors and emotions. It focuses on gaining insight into these dynamics to alleviate symptoms and improve overall psychological functioning.
Somatic Therapy
Somatic therapy is an approach to psychotherapy that emphasizes the connection between the mind and body. It focuses on how bodily sensations, movements, and experiences can influence emotional well-being and psychological health. By exploring and addressing physical sensations and responses, somatic therapy aims to help individuals heal from trauma, manage stress, and improve overall mental health.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR):
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals heal from trauma and distressing life experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements) to help the brain process and integrate difficult memories, reducing their emotional intensity and allowing for meaningful relief.
What Can EMDR Help With?
EMDR is effective for a range of challenges, including:
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
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Anxiety and panic disorders
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Depression and negative self-beliefs
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Complex trauma and childhood experiences
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Grief, phobias, and performance anxiety
How Does It Work?
During EMDR sessions, we identify specific memories or triggers that are impacting your well-being. Using bilateral stimulation, your brain processes these experiences in a way that reduces their emotional hold, helping you feel calmer, more balanced, and empowered in the present.
EMDR is a structured, client-centered approach that integrates easily with other therapeutic methods, ensuring your care is tailored to your unique needs and goals.
For more information about EMDR therapy and its benefits, visit the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA).
Appointments take place virtually, including EMDR therapy. Initial consultations take place by phone. Sessions are held via a HIPAA-compliant platform. If we decide to work together, I will walk you through our set-up.
Free 15-20 minute phone consultation
Sessions are held weekly by video at a mutually agreed upon time.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy
Length of Sessions
50 minutes or 90 minutes?
All therapy sessions I offer are 50 minutes in length, except for EMDR Therapy, which is conducted in 90-minute sessions to allow for deeper processing and more meaningful progress. EMDR sessions are limited based on scheduling availability and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. For clients interested in committing to ongoing EMDR work, I offer discounted 4- and 8-session bundles. Learn more about these options here.