A Integrative Approach using EMDR + IFS + ACT

I take a comprehensive approach to healing and transformation through the integration of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). As a therapist committed to holistic well-being, the combination of these modalities offers a powerful and nuanced approach to address trauma, promote self-discovery, and foster lasting change. 

EMDR Therapy: Unlocking the Healing Power of Your Brain

EMDR is an evidence-based psychotherapy approach designed to alleviate distress associated with traumatic memories or negative beliefs about oneself. EMDR uses a technique called bilateral stimulation, like moving your eyes from side to side or tapping on your shoulders back and forth, to help your brain process difficult memories related to negative self beliefs. This helps your mind adjust and lowers the strong emotions connected to those memories, making it easier for you to cope and move forward in life. 

EMDR is built on the foundational belief that our brains have what they need to heal us from traumatic experiences or negative self-beliefs. EMDR calls this the AIP - the adaptive information processing system, which is a very fancy way of saying that our minds are on our sides, and will lead us toward what is most true about ourselves when given the chance. You may have many limiting beliefs, such as “I’m not good enough,” or “I’m defective,” or “there’s something wrong with me.” By allowing your mind to free associate, with the help of bilateral stimulation, you will find clarity about who you are as a person - you are not defective, you are good enough, and there is not anything wrong with you. EMDR can help you find peace with yourself. You can read more about EMDR by clicking here.  

Integration with IFS: A Client-Centered Approach

Internal Family Systems therapy believes that inside each person, there are different parts with their own feelings, thoughts, and roles. The goal is to help these parts work together harmoniously and let go of burdens that they carry, so you can lead yourself with clarity and confidence.

When EMDR is combined with IFS, it makes the therapy even more effective. IFS allows you to get to know yourself on a deeper level and prepare you to integrate the new insights that EMDR will bring up. IFS is a tool that allows us to explore trauma in a gentle and compassionate way. You can read more about IFS Therapy by clicking here. 

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: Cultivating Mindful Engagement with the Present

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)  is a mindfulness-based therapeutic approach that encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings, commit to values-based actions, and cultivate psychological flexibility. Unlike traditional behavioral therapy, ACT focuses on getting curious about our thoughts and being with them rather than fused with them.  It emphasizes living in the present moment and taking committed action towards a meaningful life.

Processing trauma can be really challenging work. EMDR and ACT complement each other by promoting mindfulness and helping you build a resilient mindset. ACT skills support you while doing trauma work by helping you to accept your experiences and commit to values-driven actions in your life moving forward. You can read more about ACT Therapy by clicking here. 

Benefits of Integration

  • Holistic Healing: The combination of EMDR, IFS, and ACT offers a holistic framework addressing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects of healing.

  • Comprehensive Trauma Resolution: EMDR's trauma-focused approach, integrated with IFS's internal exploration and ACT's mindfulness, allows for a more comprehensive resolution of traumatic experiences.

  • Enhanced Self-Awareness: IFS's emphasis on understanding and harmonizing internal parts contributes to a deeper self-awareness, aligning with ACT's goal of mindful engagement.

  • Sustainable Change: ACT's focus on values-based living empowers clients to make lasting changes by aligning their actions with their core values.