Anxiety and Depression Therapy: The Best Approach for You?
When someone reaches out for help with anxiety or depression, one of the first questions they often ask is, “What’s the best therapy approach for me?” And my answer is always the same: it depends on you. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to therapy—because every person carries a unique story, a different nervous system, and their own way of processing the world around them.
As a therapist, I’ve spent years helping people work through anxiety and depression, and I’ve learned that the most effective approach is one that’s tailored to the individual. Whether you’re struggling with constant worry, low motivation, panic attacks, or a deep sense of hopelessness, there’s a path forward—and it starts with finding the approach that fits you. Anxiety and depression therapy doesn’t have to confuse you.
Why One Approach Doesn’t Fit All
Therapy isn’t just about applying techniques—it’s about creating a relationship and process that feels safe and effective for the person sitting across from me. Anxiety and depression don’t show up the same way for everyone. Some people feel it in their bodies—tightness in the chest, racing heart, constant fatigue. Others feel it in their thoughts—overanalyzing everything, spiraling into worst-case scenarios, or feeling numb and disconnected from life.
That’s why I draw from an integrated approach, combining methods like:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – to identify and challenge negative thought patterns.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – to process trauma and stuck emotional responses.
Sensory Motor Psychotherapy (SMP) – to connect with the body and release trauma stored in the nervous system.
The goal isn’t to “treat a symptom.” The goal is to understand the root of your anxiety and depression, and help you heal from the inside out.
How My Early Work Shaped My Approach
Earlier in my career, I worked with war veterans who were struggling with intense anxiety, depression, and emotional shutdown. Many of them didn’t even identify their experiences as trauma—they just knew they didn’t feel safe, couldn’t sleep, and couldn’t connect with people anymore. It became clear to me that unprocessed trauma was living beneath the surface of their symptoms.
I also spent time working with adults on probation, and I noticed something similar. Many of the people I worked with had experienced neglect, abuse, or violence early in life. They were functioning adults, but underneath the surface were layers of unresolved trauma that showed up as depression, anxiety, anger, or self-sabotaging behaviors.
These experiences taught me something important: we can’t talk our way out of trauma.
That’s when I knew I needed deeper, more drastic tools—like EMDR—to help people not just cope, but truly heal.
The Role of EMDR in Healing Anxiety and Depression
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is one of the most powerful tools I use with clients who are ready to process and release the emotional weight they’ve been carrying. What makes EMDR so effective is that it doesn’t rely on talking alone. It helps the brain reprocess memories that are stuck in the nervous system and allows the body to finally feel safe again.
Many clients come to me after trying traditional therapy and feeling like they’re just going in circles. They know what their issues are—they’ve talked about them—but they still feel stuck. EMDR often helps them break through those stuck points in ways they didn’t think were possible.
And yes—EMDR works beautifully online too, it keeps evolving how therapists practice it online and how we apply stimulation to the short-term memory that is key to healing.
Combining Tools for Lasting Change
Sometimes, clients need structure and practical strategies. That’s where CBT is helpful—we work on identifying distorted thinking, reframing unhelpful beliefs, and building better coping tools. Other times, anxiety and depression live in the body, and no amount of thinking changes that. That’s where SMP helps, by bringing attention to somatic cues, breath, posture, and tension that hold emotional pain.
In many cases, I use all three approaches—CBT, EMDR, and SMP—depending on where the client is in their healing journey. My role is to meet each person exactly where they are, without forcing a method or rushing the process.
How Do You Know What You Need?
That’s where our free consultation comes in. Before starting therapy, I offer a consultation to get to know you—what you’ve been going through, what you’ve tried before, and what feels most difficult right now. This conversation helps me understand the best way to approach your therapy.
Sometimes, we start slow and focus on stabilizing anxiety with body-based tools and CBT techniques. Other times, we move more directly into trauma processing with EMDR. The key is that we figure it out together, and you never have to do it alone.
What You Can Expect from Our Work Together
If you’re struggling with anxiety and depression, you might feel like it’s always going to be this way. But I want you to know: healing is absolutely possible. I’ve seen it happen over and over again—clients who once felt stuck, disconnected, or overwhelmed begin to experience relief, clarity, and connection again.
In our work together, you can expect:
A safe, non-judgmental space to explore what’s really going on.
A therapy plan tailored to your specific needs, not a generic protocol.
Tools and strategies to manage anxiety and low mood day-to-day.
Deeper healing work to resolve the root causes, not just surface symptoms.
Flexibility—sessions are done online for your convenience.
Ready to Take the First Step?
You don’t have to keep carrying this alone. Whether your anxiety feels like a constant hum in the background or your depression feels like it’s pulling you under, there is a way forward. Through a personalized, integrated therapy approach, we can work together to understand what’s going on and help you move toward healing. Anxiety and depression therapy is really effective.
If you’re curious about starting therapy, I invite you to book a free consultation. It’s a chance for us to talk, explore your needs, and see if my approach is the right fit for you.
Because the best therapy isn’t just about techniques—it’s about finding the right approach for you. 
Heal Past Trauma: Finding Peace Here and Now
Trauma has a way of staying with us—sometimes in obvious ways, like flashbacks and anxiety, and sometimes in subtle ways, like patterns of self-doubt, relationship struggles, or chronic stress. If you’ve been carrying the weight of past trauma, you might wonder: Is healing truly possible? Can I find peace and feel safe in the present? The answer is yes. Healing is absolutely possible, and it starts with understanding how trauma affects you and finding the right therapeutic approach that works for your unique experience. So how can we heal past trauma?
As a therapist, I specialize in trauma therapy, integrating EMDR -2.0-, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Sensory Motor Psychotherapy (SMP) to help clients heal at a deeper level. In this post, I’ll explain how trauma impacts you, how triggers keep you stuck, and how a tailored therapy approach can help you finally move forward.
Understanding Trauma: What It Looks Like
Trauma is not just about what happened to you—it’s about how your nervous system responded to it. Everyone processes trauma differently, but generally, trauma falls into two categories:
1. Acute Trauma
This results from a single distressing event, such as a car accident, assault, natural disaster, or a sudden loss. Even though the event is in the past, your body and mind may still react as if you’re in danger.
2. Complex Trauma (C-PTSD)
This occurs from repeated or prolonged exposure to distressing experiences, such as childhood neglect, emotional abuse, bullying, or a toxic relationship. Over time, these experiences shape your self-perception and emotional responses.
3. Developmental Trauma
Trauma that occurs during early childhood can deeply impact how we form relationships, regulate emotions, and view ourselves. This might come from a lack of emotional safety growing up, inconsistent caregivers, or early medical issues.
No matter what type of trauma you’ve experienced, its effects don’t just stay in the past—they show up in your triggers, thought patterns, and physical responses today.
Triggers: How Past Trauma Affects You in the Present
A trigger is anything that activates an old trauma response. It might be a specific situation, a tone of voice, a smell, or even an unexpected feeling. When you experience a trigger, your brain reacts as if the past trauma is happening all over again.
Common Trauma Triggers:
- Feeling rejected or abandoned
- Loud noises or sudden movements
- Certain facial expressions or tones of voice
- Conflict in relationships
- A specific smell, place, or object
- Situations that make you feel out of control
How Triggers Affect Your Life:
Without realizing it, you might respond to these triggers with anxiety, dissociation, emotional shutdown, anger, or avoidance. This can impact your relationships, self-esteem, and ability to trust others. But the good news is that triggers don’t have to control you. Through the right therapeutic techniques, you can rewire your brain’s response and break free from trauma-driven patterns.
Healing Trauma with an Integrated Approach: EMDR 2.0, CBT & SMP
I don’t believe in a “one-size-fits-all” approach to trauma therapy. Every person’s trauma story is unique, which means the healing process must be tailored to you.
1. EMDR 2.0: Reprocessing Trauma More Effectively
Traditional EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is already a powerful method for processing trauma, but EMDR 2.0 is an advanced approach that works faster and more efficiently. It uses more intense memory taxing tools and faster memory processing to help the brain rewire traumatic memories in a shorter time frame. Clients often find that it helps them process distressing experiences with less emotional overwhelm compared to traditional EMDR but again that’s something that will be uniquely selected based on you and what works best to make you feel safe so you can heal.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Changing Thought Patterns
CBT helps you identify negative thought patterns that were shaped by trauma. For example, if trauma made you believe “I am not safe” or “I am not good enough”, CBT helps challenge these beliefs and replace them with new, empowering ones. Trauma that has been “operating” in you for years has left you with a lot of “defense mechanisms” that were created to help you survive your reality back then but these notions don’t serve you anymore. I will give you tools and exercises that will help you to first be aware of those “blocks” in the way you think and then fight them effectively so that the trauma work will be more effective.
3. Sensory Motor Psychotherapy (SMP): Healing the Body’s Response to Trauma
Trauma isn’t just stored in the mind—it’s stored in the body. SMP helps you become aware of how trauma lives in your physical responses (muscle tension, shallow breathing, restlessness) and teaches you ways to release this stored energy. By combining SMP with EMDR and CBT, we create a full-body healing experience that makes trauma processing more complete. Not everyone needs all 3 modalities but it’s better to have all the “tools” available in case you need them right?
Feeling Safe in Therapy: A Tailored Approach
One of the most important parts of healing trauma is feeling safe and supported. I customize therapy for each person based on their unique needs, comfort levels, and personal history. Some people need gentle processing at their own pace, while others are ready to dive deeper into intensive EMDR work. My approach ensures that therapy never feels overwhelming or retraumatizing. The very first step is for you to understand how EMDR works and what’s the purpose of what we are doing so that you are on board and you can team up with me to beat the heck out of this annoying trauma.
Here’s how I make therapy a safe and empowering experience:
- I guide sessions at a pace that feels right for you. I push you gently and I always ask if you’re doing ok.
- I teach grounding techniques to help regulate emotions before deep trauma work and teach you to use them outside therapy so that you can regulate yourself through the week if needed.
- I integrate body-based approaches for those who feel stuck in trauma responses.
- I offer practical coping tools to manage triggers between sessions.
Trauma therapy isn’t just about talking—it’s about experiencing real change in how you feel, think, and respond to life.
Healing is Possible – Take the First Step
Healing past trauma doesn’t mean erasing the past—it means freeing yourself from its hold on your present and future. With the right approach, you can:
- Feel calmer and safer in your own body.
- Break free from negative thought loops and self-doubt.
- Respond to life’s challenges without feeling emotionally overwhelmed.
- Build healthy, fulfilling relationships without past wounds interfering.
- Find yourself and grow into the person you dream of being.
If you’re ready to start this journey, I offer a free consultation where we can talk about your needs and see if my therapy approach is the right fit for you.
You don’t have to carry the weight of trauma alone. Healing is possible, and it starts right here, right now.
Trauma and Anxiety: How Unprocessed Trauma Fuels Triggers and Chronic Anxiety
Anxiety doesn’t just come out of nowhere. If you struggle with chronic anxiety, panic attacks, or intense emotional reactions, chances are unprocessed trauma is playing a role. Trauma isn’t just about major life-threatening events—it can come from childhood wounds, toxic relationships, or even small moments where you felt unsafe but never had the chance to process it. And when trauma stays unresolved, it lives in the nervous system—fueling anxiety, overreactions, and constant feelings of unease.
If you’ve ever felt triggered and thought, Why am I reacting so intensely to this?, this article is for you. Let’s explore the link between trauma and anxiety, how triggers work, and what you can do to start healing.
The Connection Between Trauma & Anxiety
Trauma and anxiety are deeply connected because trauma rewires the brain to stay in a state of hypervigilance. When you go through something overwhelming—whether it’s a breakup, childhood neglect, or a major loss—your nervous system learns to associate safety with danger. This creates long-term patterns of anxiety.
Your brain stays on high alert. Your amygdala (the fear center) becomes overactive, making everyday situations feel threatening. Your nervous system doesn’t reset. Instead of calming down after stress, your body stays in fight-or-flight mode. Triggers bring the past into the present. Something minor—like a tone of voice, a certain smell, or a specific situation—can reactivate old pain, making you feel like it’s happening again.
This is why trauma-based anxiety can feel irrational. You know you’re safe, but your body doesn’t believe it.
What Are Triggers and How Do They Work?
Triggers are sensory reminders of past trauma that activate a strong emotional reaction. They can be:
Emotional triggers – Feeling ignored, rejected, or criticized. Situational triggers – Conflict, being put on the spot, or being in unfamiliar environments. Physical triggers – Loud noises, certain smells, or even body sensations like a racing heart.
When a trigger activates, your brain reacts as if the past trauma is happening right now, flooding your body with anxiety, panic, or dissociation. This is why people with unresolved trauma often struggle with chronic anxiety and emotional reactivity.
How Unprocessed Trauma Fuels Chronic Anxiety
If you feel like your anxiety is always there, lurking in the background, it might be because your nervous system is stuck in survival mode. Here’s how:
You overthink everything. Your brain stays in hyper-analysis mode, constantly scanning for threats. Your body feels tense all the time. Chronic tightness in the shoulders, jaw, or stomach is a sign of stored trauma. You struggle with emotional regulation. Small things feel overwhelming because your system is already overloaded. You have trouble trusting others. Past wounds make relationships feel unsafe or unpredictable. You avoid certain situations. Whether it’s social gatherings, dating, or taking risks—your body keeps you “safe” by avoiding triggers.
The cycle of trauma and anxiety can feel endless, but there are ways to retrain your brain and body to feel safe again.
Healing Trauma-Based Anxiety: Where to Start
Breaking free from trauma-fueled anxiety requires teaching your nervous system that the present is safe. Here’s how:
1. Learn to Recognize Your Triggers
Start noticing what sets off your anxiety. Ask yourself:
- What happened right before I started feeling anxious?
- Is this reaction about the present or something from my past?
- What does my body need to feel safe again?
Naming your triggers helps separate past trauma from current reality.
2. Grounding Techniques to Bring You Back to the Present
When anxiety kicks in, use grounding exercises to remind your body that you’re safe.
5-4-3-2-1 method – Name 5 things you see, 4 things you feel, 3 things you hear, 2 things you smell, and 1 thing you taste. Breathing exercises – Try the 4-7-8 method (inhale 4s, hold 7s, exhale 8s) to calm your nervous system. Bilateral stimulation – Tap each shoulder alternately (like in EMDR therapy) to process emotional distress.
3. Somatic Work: Releasing Trauma from the Body
Trauma isn’t just stored in the mind—it’s stored in the body. Releasing it means engaging in physical practices that reset the nervous system:
Movement – Walking, yoga, shaking out tension, or stretching can help discharge stored energy. Cold therapy – Splashing cold water on your face or taking a cold shower can regulate your vagus nerve. Weighted pressure – Using a weighted blanket or placing a hand on your chest can activate your body’s safety response.
4. Reframe Your Thoughts & Inner Dialogue
Anxiety often comes with negative self-talk, like: 
“I can’t handle this.” “I’m not safe.” “Something bad is going to happen.”
Instead, challenge these thoughts: “I have handled hard things before—I can handle this too.” “This feeling is temporary, and I am safe right now.” “I don’t have to believe every anxious thought.”
Your brain believes what you tell it—so feed it thoughts that help, not thoughts that harm.
When to Seek Professional Help
If trauma-based anxiety is affecting your daily life, therapy can help. Therapies like EMDR, CBT, and somatic therapy are designed to help process unresolved trauma, rewire the nervous system, and break free from triggers.
There’s no shame in getting help—healing is a strength.
Final Thoughts: You Are Not Your Trauma
Anxiety and trauma don’t define you. They are responses your body has learned—but they can also be unlearned. Healing doesn’t mean forgetting the past, but it does mean learning how to feel safe in the present.
You deserve peace. You deserve freedom from anxiety. And with the right tools and support, you can get there.
Why Am I So Anxious? Understanding the Roots of Anxiety
If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, “Why am I so anxious all the time?”—you’re not alone. Anxiety can feel like an endless loop of overthinking, tension, and unease, and it’s frustrating when it seems to show up for no reason. But here’s the thing: anxiety is never random. Your nervous system is reacting to something, even if you don’t consciously know what it is.
As a therapist, I’ve worked with many people who feel trapped in their anxiety. Some try to push through it, others avoid situations that trigger it, and some feel completely stuck. The good news? Anxiety can be understood, managed, and even healed. Let’s break it down.
Why Are You So Anxious? The Hidden Causes
Anxiety isn’t just “all in your head”—it’s a real response from your nervous system. Here are some of the most common reasons anxiety shows up:
1. Unresolved Stress or Trauma
Sometimes, anxiety isn’t about what’s happening now—it’s about what hasn’t been processed from the past. If you’ve been through stressful or overwhelming experiences (even if they seem small), your nervous system might still be on high alert, making you feel anxious even when there’s no actual danger.
2. Your Nervous System Is Dysregulated
If you’ve ever felt restless, panicked, or exhausted without knowing why, your nervous system might be stuck in fight-or-flight mode. This can happen if you’ve been under prolonged stress, leading your body to stay in a constant state of alertness.
3. Negative Thought Patterns
Your brain is wired to look for danger—it’s a survival mechanism. But sometimes, it overreacts and creates worst-case-scenario thinking. If you’re constantly worrying about what might go wrong, your brain will keep sending out anxiety signals, even when everything is actually fine.
4. Anxiety Can Be Learned
If you grew up in an environment where stress, fear, or unpredictability were common, your brain may have learned that being anxious is the safest state to be in. In other words, your anxiety might be a habit your mind and body developed over time.
5. Lifestyle Factors That Increase Anxiety
Not everything is psychological—sometimes anxiety is triggered by poor sleep, too much caffeine, blood sugar imbalances, or lack of movement. These factors can send your nervous system into overdrive without you even realizing it.
How to Calm Your Anxiety and Regulate Your Nervous System
The good news? Anxiety is treatable. You’re not broken, and you don’t have to feel this way forever. Here’s where to start:
1. Get to the Root of It
Instead of just managing symptoms, therapy (especially EMDR, CBT, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy) helps you process unresolved emotions and rewire your nervous system, so anxiety isn’t running the show.
2. Rewire Your Thinking Patterns
If your brain is always jumping to worst-case scenarios, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) can help challenge those thoughts and replace them with healthier, more realistic ones.
3. Regulate Your Nervous System
Your body needs safety signals to come out of anxiety mode. Breathwork, movement, grounding exercises, and body-based therapies like Sensorimotor Psychotherapy can help your nervous system relax and reset.
4. Change Small Daily Habits
- Reduce caffeine and sugar if they make you jittery.
- Prioritize sleep—a tired brain is an anxious brain.
- Move your body daily, even if it’s just a walk.
- Practice breathwork to send safety signals to your nervous system.
Final Thoughts: You Can Feel Better
Anxiety isn’t a life sentence—it’s a signal from your mind and body that something needs attention. The key isn’t to fight anxiety but to understand it. With the right tools, therapy, and self-care, you can train your nervous system to feel calmer and more resilient.
If you’re tired of feeling on edge and want to work through your anxiety in a way that actually works, let’s talk. You don’t have to do this alone.
Understanding the Connection Between Depression and Anxiety
When it comes to mental health, depression and anxiety are often discussed as separate struggles. However, in practice, they frequently go hand in hand. If you’ve ever felt the weight of depression coupled with the racing thoughts of anxiety, you’re not alone. As a therapist, I’ve seen how these two conditions can intertwine, creating a cycle that feels overwhelming but is entirely possible to manage with the right approach.
Let’s explore their connection, why they often coexist, and how understanding this relationship can help in overcoming both.
What Are Depression and Anxiety?
Before diving into their correlation, it’s important to understand these two conditions individually.
Depression is often characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities once enjoyed. It can make even the smallest tasks feel insurmountable.
Anxiety, on the other hand, is marked by excessive worry, fear, and restlessness. It can lead to a heightened sense of alertness, as if your brain is stuck in overdrive.
While these conditions have distinct features, their overlapping symptoms can make it hard to differentiate them at times.
How Are They Connected?
One of the most common questions I hear from clients is, can you have both depression and anxiety? The answer is a resounding yes. In fact, studies show that more than 50% of people with depression also experience anxiety. But why do these two often occur together?
1. Shared Biological Pathways
Research suggests that both depression and anxiety may stem from similar imbalances in brain chemistry, particularly involving serotonin and dopamine. These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in mood regulation, and disruptions can lead to symptoms of both conditions.
2. Overlapping Symptoms
Symptoms like fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and irritability are common to both depression and anxiety. This overlap can blur the lines between the two and make it challenging to address one without considering the other.
3. The Cause-and-Effect Cycle
Anxiety often feeds depression and vice versa. For instance, excessive worrying (anxiety) can lead to feelings of helplessness (depression). Similarly, the lack of energy and motivation caused by depression can make you feel anxious about falling behind in life, creating a vicious cycle.
4. Life Stressors
Traumatic events, chronic stress, or significant life changes can act as triggers for both conditions. For example, losing a job may spark anxiety about the future while simultaneously leading to depressive feelings about self-worth.
Why It’s Important to Address Both
Treating one without addressing the other can leave you stuck in a loop. For example, managing anxiety-related symptoms might bring temporary relief, but if underlying depressive thoughts persist, the anxiety may return. Similarly, focusing solely on depression may overlook the root causes of worry and tension.
By understanding their connection, you can take a more holistic approach to healing.
How to Manage Depression and Anxiety Together
While every individual’s journey is unique, there are strategies that can help manage both conditions effectively.
1. Therapy
Therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be incredibly effective. CBT helps you identify and reframe negative thought patterns that fuel both depression and anxiety. Techniques like mindfulness and grounding exercises are often integrated into therapy sessions to reduce anxious thoughts while improving mood.
2. Medication
For some, medication can play a crucial role in managing symptoms. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for both depression and anxiety. If you’re considering this option, a consultation with a psychiatrist is essential.
3. Lifestyle Changes
Small daily habits can make a big difference. Exercise, for instance, boosts endorphins, improving mood and reducing anxiety. Additionally, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and eating nutrient-rich foods can support overall mental health.
4. Stress Management
Learning how to manage stress is key. Techniques like deep breathing, journaling, or even creative outlets like painting or playing music can help regulate emotions and create a sense of calm.
5. Build a Support System
Talking about what you’re going through with trusted friends, family, or a support group can alleviate feelings of isolation. Remember, you don’t have to face this alone.
A Message of Hope
Living with depression and anxiety can feel like an uphill battle, but it’s important to remember that these conditions are treatable. By addressing both simultaneously, you can break free from the cycle that holds you back.
As a therapist, I’ve witnessed countless individuals transform their lives by taking small, consistent steps toward healing. If you’re struggling, know that help is available, and you don’t have to navigate this alone.
Final Thoughts
Depression and anxiety often coexist, but understanding their connection is the first step toward overcoming them. Whether through therapy, lifestyle changes, or support systems, there are tools to help you regain control of your life.
If you’re ready to take the next step in addressing your mental health, I encourage you to reach out. Together, we can create a path forward that feels manageable and hopeful.
EMDR Therapy – Breaking Free from the Past and being present
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a powerful tool for healing, growth, and transformation. Over the years, I’ve witnessed how it helps people reframe their past, reclaim their present, and look forward to the future with fresh eyes. But instead of explaining EMDR from a clinical standpoint, let’s explore what it’s like to experience real breakthroughs, straight from those who’ve taken this transformative journey.
EMDR: A Pathway to Healing
For those unfamiliar with EMDR therapy, it’s a therapy designed to help people process difficult memories, trauma, and ingrained negative beliefs. It’s almost like helping the mind rewire itself to see past experiences in a new, less distressing light. The process itself is structured but feels surprisingly organic. Many clients come to me unsure about how moving their eyes or tapping in rhythm could unlock years of emotional weight—but then they start experiencing shifts they once thought impossible.
Real Breakthroughs, Real People
Below are some stories from clients who’ve courageously shared their experiences. I’ve changed names to protect privacy, but the essence of their stories remains true. Hearing their words always reminds me of why I’m passionate about EMDR. It’s more than therapy; it’s about stepping into a life where past burdens no longer define you.
“I finally feel safe in my own skin.”
Sarah came to me feeling like she was constantly on edge. She’d been through a series of tough experiences that had left her feeling trapped in a cycle of anxiety and fear. Initially, she was hesitant about EMDR. She admitted, “It sounded strange—I mean, how could eye movements help me feel safe again?”
But after a few sessions, Sarah’s mindset began to shift. She described one breakthrough session, saying, “I realized I didn’t have to carry this fear anymore. It was like the weight just lifted off, and I felt at home in myself for the first time in years.” Sarah’s journey was about reclaiming her sense of safety, and watching her come into her own has been incredibly inspiring.
“It felt like magic—like all that pain just faded.”
Michael struggled with feelings of shame and self-doubt stemming from his childhood. In our sessions, we worked through those memories, gradually chipping away at the pain associated with them. One day, after a particularly powerful EMDR session, Michael told me, “I don’t know how else to describe it; it felt like magic. All the pain I’d carried just… faded.”
He went on to explain how he’d always believed he had to live with this pain—that somehow it defined who he was. EMDR helped him see that he could rewrite those beliefs and define himself on his own terms. It wasn’t magic, but a deep, transformative process that EMDR enabled him to achieve. Michael’s breakthrough is a beautiful example of how EMDR helps people rewrite their personal stories.
“For the first time, I could remember without reliving.”
Another client, Maria, had been carrying around a particularly distressing memory that seemed to haunt her. Every time she thought about it, she would spiral into feelings of shame and guilt. In one of our sessions, as we revisited this memory with EMDR therapy, something remarkable happened.
Afterward, Maria looked up at me with tears in her eyes and said, “For the first time, I can remember without feeling like I’m right back there. It’s just a memory now—it doesn’t own me.” That’s the beauty of EMDR. It doesn’t erase memories but changes how they live within us, allowing us to remember without reliving.
“I can finally move forward.”
Tom came into EMDR looking to break free from a self-destructive pattern he’d fallen into over the years. He described it as “always hitting the same wall” whenever he tried to make progress in his life. After a few EMDR sessions, we started uncovering and processing some of the root beliefs holding him back.
One day, Tom smiled and said, “I don’t feel that weight anymore. I finally feel like I can move forward.” Watching Tom take that new perspective and create a healthier, more fulfilling life has been a joy.
How EMDR Works Its Magic
For those curious about how EMDR therapy brings about these shifts, let’s break it down a bit. EMDR doesn’t erase memories or make you forget; instead, it helps your brain reprocess traumatic memories. During EMDR, I guide clients through a series of eye movements, taps, or sounds while they focus on a specific memory. These actions stimulate both sides of the brain, helping clients reframe how they see and feel about their experiences. Many find that a memory that once felt overwhelming becomes manageable—more like a distant chapter rather than an all-consuming story.
Why EMDR Isn’t Just for Trauma
EMDR is widely recognized as a treatment for trauma, but it’s also helpful for a range of issues: anxiety, phobias, self-esteem struggles, and even enhancing performance in different areas of life. One of my clients, Lisa, came to me because she felt “stuck” in her career, always second-guessing herself. Through EMDR, we worked through her fears and self-doubt, and she started stepping into her career with newfound confidence.
Is EMDR Right for You?
You might be wondering if EMDR could help you. In my experience, it’s a powerful tool for anyone ready to let go of the past and move toward a healthier, freer future. Yes, it can feel strange at first. I often hear, “How can moving my eyes do anything?” But once you’ve experienced EMDR, you understand it’s less about the method and more about the outcome—the profound feeling of liberation it brings.
Whether you’re dealing with old traumas or simply want to feel more empowered in your day-to-day life, EMDR could be the game-changer you’ve been searching for. So if you’re ready to start shedding what no longer serves you, I’m here to guide you on this journey. And as these clients have shown, there’s always hope on the other side.
Final Thoughts
EMDR isn’t just therapy; it’s a journey. It’s a way to reclaim your narrative, find peace within yourself, and start living in the present moment. I’m grateful every day for the clients who trust me to walk this path with them. Their breakthroughs remind me that healing isn’t just possible—it’s transformative, empowering, and life-changing.
If these stories resonate with you, reach out. You don’t have to carry those old burdens alone. Together, we can turn the page and help you embrace a new, brighter chapter of your life.
SMP Therapy: What It Is and How It Works Online
If you’ve heard of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SMP) but aren’t sure what it’s all about, you’re in the right place! As a psychotherapist practicing SMP therapy online, I’m here to break down the what, why, and how of SMP in a way that’s fun and easy to understand. In this article, we’ll explore how SMP therapy works, how it’s practiced online, and why it’s a valuable tool in treating trauma and emotional struggles.
Table of Contents
- What Is SMP Therapy?
- How SMP Therapy Works
- The History of SMP Therapy
- The Science Behind SMP
- What Happens in an SMP Session?
- SMP Therapy Online: How It Works in a Virtual Setting
- SMP Therapy vs. Traditional Talk Therapy
- Combining SMP Therapy with EMDR and CBT
- Who Is SMP Therapy For?
- Common Questions About SMP Therapy
- Finding the Right SMP Therapist
1. What Is SMP Therapy?
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, or SMP, is a body-centered approach to therapy designed to help individuals process trauma and emotional distress stored in the body. Unlike traditional talk therapy, which focuses primarily on thoughts and emotions, SMP also taps into the body’s reactions to trauma.
When we experience traumatic or stressful events, our bodies react along with our minds. Sometimes, these physical responses get “stuck” and create patterns in our posture, movements, or even health. SMP works by helping clients become aware of these physical sensations and explore how they relate to underlying emotional struggles. It’s like giving the body a voice in therapy, allowing for healing at a deeper, more integrated level.
2. How SMP Therapy Works
SMP views the body and mind as a connected system, where unresolved trauma can manifest as physical tension, habits, or responses. Rather than focusing solely on memories or thoughts, SMP therapy encourages clients to notice how their bodies respond to certain memories or emotions.
In a session, we might focus on sensations like tightness in the chest, a clenched jaw, or even something as subtle as holding one’s breath. By bringing attention to these sensations, clients learn to understand their body’s reactions and can start releasing pent-up trauma stored in these responses.
3. The History of SMP Therapy
SMP was developed by Dr. Pat Ogden, a pioneer in the field of somatic psychology. In the 1970s, Ogden began researching the body’s role in emotional healing. She observed that trauma affects not only the mind but also the body, creating physical patterns that can persist long after the event. She created SMP as a way to address this, combining principles from bodywork, psychology, and neurobiology to help people heal.
Since then, SMP has gained recognition worldwide for its effectiveness in treating trauma and has continued to evolve with advancements in neuroscience and trauma therapy.
4. The Science Behind SMP
Our brains and bodies are intricately connected. When we experience something traumatic, our brains go into survival mode, triggering a fight, flight, or freeze response. This response releases stress hormones and activates certain body sensations — things like tense muscles or increased heart rate.
For many, these responses don’t just “turn off” when the event is over. They can stay with us, creating physical patterns or reactions that we might not even be aware of. SMP helps by reconnecting the brain and body, allowing us to process these experiences more fully.
In therapy, we often focus on the “felt sense” — the physical sensations associated with memories or emotions. By working with these sensations, SMP therapy helps release the body’s tension, reducing trauma responses and creating a sense of safety and calm.
5. What Happens in an SMP Session?
In an SMP session, we’ll do more than just talk. We’ll focus on the body, exploring sensations and movements that arise as you discuss certain experiences or emotions. Here’s a general flow of what to expect:
- Awareness: I might ask you to notice physical sensations when recalling certain events or emotions. For example, “What do you feel in your body when you think about that experience?”
- Exploration: Once we identify a sensation (such as a tight chest), we explore it with curiosity. You might notice where it’s located, its intensity, or if it shifts in response to certain thoughts.
- Mind-Body Connection: We’ll work on understanding the connection between the body sensation and the emotions or memories tied to it.
- Processing and Release: Through various techniques, I’ll guide you in releasing or transforming these sensations, which can lead to a reduction in symptoms of anxiety, stress, or trauma.
The goal is to help you tune into your body, listen to what it’s telling you, and process any “stuck” sensations to promote healing.
6. SMP Therapy Online: How It Works in a Virtual Setting
Practicing SMP online is not only possible but can be highly effective. In a virtual SMP session, we use tools like video calls to create a safe, comfortable space. Here’s how we work with the body remotely:
- Guided Focus: Even online, I can guide you to focus on different body sensations and movements. You’ll tune into your body from wherever you are, allowing us to explore physical responses just as we would in person.
- Body-Based Exercises: We may use specific body-based exercises that are easy to do in your own space. These might involve simple movements, breathing techniques, or noticing body posture.
- Tracking and Awareness: I’ll guide you to track your body’s sensations in real-time. You’ll learn to be aware of how your body reacts to certain thoughts, which can be incredibly empowering.
- Grounding Techniques: Since online sessions happen in your personal space, I’ll introduce grounding exercises that can help you feel safe and centered no matter where you are.
With the right techniques and guidance, online SMP can be as effective as in-person therapy, giving you flexibility and comfort in your own environment.
7. SMP Therapy vs. Traditional Talk Therapy
One of the major differences between SMP and traditional talk therapy is the focus on the body. In talk therapy, the primary focus is on thoughts and emotions. In SMP, we look at how those thoughts and emotions are experienced in the body.
For example, if you’re feeling anxious, talk therapy might help you identify the thought causing your anxiety. In SMP, we’ll also examine where that anxiety lives in the body, whether it’s in the shoulders, chest, or stomach. This dual approach helps address not only the psychological but also the physiological aspects of trauma.
8. Combining SMP Therapy with EMDR and CBT
While SMP is powerful on its own, I often integrate it with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) for even more effective results. Here’s how they complement each other:
- SMP focuses on the body’s responses, releasing physical tension and trauma held in muscles and posture.
- EMDR helps reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional impact.
- CBT addresses unhelpful thoughts and beliefs, creating new ways of thinking that support positive behavior change.
Together, these methods offer a comprehensive approach, addressing trauma from multiple angles and helping you heal emotionally, mentally, and physically.
9. Who Is SMP Therapy For?
SMP therapy is beneficial for individuals who:
- Have experienced trauma or chronic stress
- Feel “stuck” with traditional talk therapy
- Experience physical symptoms related to emotional issues (like tight muscles, chronic pain, or migraines)
- Struggle with anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Want to connect with their body and understand its role in their emotional health
SMP is especially helpful for people who feel disconnected from their body or who sense they carry trauma physically as well as mentally.
10. Common Questions About SMP Therapy
Here are a few common questions clients have about SMP:
- Is SMP safe to do online? Yes! I guide clients through each step in a way that’s safe, supportive, and effective. You’ll be in control throughout, with techniques you can use independently after our sessions.
- Does SMP work for anxiety? Absolutely. SMP can help by addressing how anxiety manifests in the body, which often brings deeper relief than talk therapy alone.
- How many sessions will I need? This varies by person and goals. Some clients feel progress in a few sessions, while others find ongoing work helpful, especially when integrating SMP with EMDR and CBT.
11. Finding the Right SMP Therapist
When looking for an SMP therapist, finding someone who’s experienced and makes you feel comfortable is key. Look for someone certified in SMP and experienced in online therapy, especially if you’re interested in a multi-faceted approach that includes therapies like EMDR and CBT.
I work with clients across California in a supportive online setting, guiding them through the journey of reconnecting with their bodies and processing trauma in a way that feels safe and effective.
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy is a powerful, body-centered approach to healing that can help release trauma and emotional distress stored in the body. By focusing on both the mind and the body, SMP offers a comprehensive way to understand and heal from life’s challenges. If you’re interested in exploring SMP or have questions about whether it’s right for you, feel free to reach out — I’d love to be part of your healing journey.
EMDR Therapy: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re curious about how EMDR therapy works, what it feels like, or whether it might help you, you’re in the right place! As an online therapist based in Los Angeles, I integrate EMDR with CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and SMP (Sensorimotor Psychotherapy) for a powerful approach to healing. Here’s everything you need to know about this transformative therapy.
Table of Contents
- What Is EMDR Therapy?
- The Origins of EMDR
- How EMDR Works in the Brain
- The 8 Phases of EMDR Therapy
- Why Choose EMDR? Common Reasons for Seeking It
- What to Expect in an EMDR Session
- Integrating EMDR, SMP, and CBT for a Holistic Approach
- Who Is EMDR For?
- Common Questions About EMDR
- Benefits and Potential Drawbacks
- Finding the Right Therapist
1. What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR, short for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is an innovative form of psychotherapy designed to help people process trauma and other distressing experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses on specific memories and helps the brain reprocess them, allowing for emotional healing.
In sessions, clients engage in structured eye movements or other types of bilateral stimulation, which seem to unlock the brain’s natural ability to heal itself. I help clients online by guiding them through this process, allowing painful memories to be reprocessed and integrated in healthier ways.
2. The Origins
The therapy was pioneered in the late 1980s by Dr. Francine Shapiro, who discovered that certain eye movements reduced the emotional charge of negative thoughts. After further research, it gained widespread recognition as an effective treatment for trauma, PTSD, and other mental health challenges.
3. How it Works in the Brain
Trauma can leave memories “stuck” in the brain, making them feel as raw as when the event happened. EMDR helps by facilitating the brain’s natural processing capabilities, using bilateral stimulation to engage both hemispheres. This reprocessing changes the way the brain holds onto traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity.
When I work with clients, I guide them in focusing on a target memory while using specific movements or auditory cues, which encourages reprocessing in a safe, structured way.
4. The 8 Phases of the Therapy
To make sure clients feel prepared and supported, EMDR follows an 8-phase approach:
- Phase 1: History Taking – We explore your experiences and set goals.
- Phase 2: Preparation – I’ll introduce grounding techniques, so you feel safe and ready.
- Phase 3: Assessment – Together, we identify the memory, emotion, and belief tied to your focus.
- Phase 4-7: Desensitization, Installation, Body Scan, and Closure – The reprocessing happens here, using bilateral stimulation.
- Phase 8: Reevaluation – We assess your progress and discuss any additional needs.
5. Why Choose it? Common Reasons for Seeking It
EMDR is widely used for treating trauma, but it’s effective for a range of issues:
- PTSD and Trauma
- Anxiety and Panic Disorders
- Phobias
- Complex Grief and Loss
- Depression
6. What to Expect in a Session
An EMDR session typically starts with grounding exercises, followed by a focus on a specific memory. I’ll guide you through the reprocessing process using bilateral stimulation (like eye movements or tapping) to ease the emotional impact of the memory. Sessions can feel intense but are structured to be manageable. My role as your therapist is to ensure you feel safe and supported at every stage.
7. Integrating strategies for better results
Combining EMDR with SMP and CBT offers a well-rounded approach to trauma treatment:
- EMDR reprocesses traumatic memories.
- SMP (Sensorimotor Psychotherapy) helps address the body’s physical responses to trauma, as we often hold trauma somatically.
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) provides cognitive tools for challenging unhelpful thoughts and developing positive patterns.
This combination ensures we address trauma on multiple levels — mental, emotional, and physical.
8. Who Is EMDR For?
This therapy can benefit individuals with various backgrounds, especially those who’ve experienced trauma. It’s also effective for:
- Chronic anxiety
- Panic disorders
- Phobias
- Complex grief
- Childhood trauma
9. Common Questions About Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing
These are a few of the most common questions people ask:
- Is EMDR effective online? Absolutely! EMDR can be just as effective online as in person, and I offer a private, secure space for online sessions.
- How many sessions are needed? It varies. Some people experience significant relief after just a few sessions, while others may benefit from a more extended series.
- Is EMDR safe? Yes. It’s a thoroughly researched therapy, and I ensure a safe, supportive experience at each step.
10. Benefits and Potential Drawbacks of it
Benefits:
- Fast relief from trauma symptoms
- Reduced intensity of negative memories
- Decreased anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms
Drawbacks:
- Processing memories can bring up strong emotions, which is why it’s important to work with a trained therapist who can guide and support you through the experience.
11. Finding the Right Therapist
For a successful experience, finding a certified therapist who makes you feel comfortable is essential. Look for someone with experience in related therapies like SMP and CBT, who can provide a comprehensive approach. I work online with clients across California, offering a safe space to explore and heal.
EMDR therapy has transformed the lives of many by helping them reprocess difficult memories and regain control over their lives. If you’re interested in learning more or considering it for yourself, I’d be happy to discuss how it might benefit you. Taking this first step could be the beginning of meaningful healing.
How EMDR Therapy Can Help You Break Free from Psychosomatic Issues
If you’ve ever struggled with unexplained body pains, chronic fatigue, or other physical symptoms that seem to resist medical explanations, you might have experienced a psychosomatic issue. Psychosomatic symptoms are physical manifestations that are strongly connected to our emotional and psychological states. They can leave us feeling trapped, exhausted, and even misunderstood. But there’s hope! Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), combined with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Somatic Mindfulness Processing (SMP), is transforming lives by addressing both the mind and body. Today, let’s dive into how EMDR can help unlock the deep connections between our mind, body, and emotions, empowering you to reclaim your well-being. EMDR therapy for psychosomatic issues can be helpful but it’s not magic. It’s a wholistic approach that can be beneficial when combined with a balanced lifestyle, diet, exercise etc.
What Are Psychosomatic Issues?
Psychosomatic issues refer to physical symptoms that arise from emotional or psychological stress rather than a medical cause. For example, you might experience tension headaches, stomach issues, chronic pain, or other ailments that don’t seem to have a straightforward medical diagnosis. These symptoms are very real, often debilitating, and can significantly affect your quality of life. Unfortunately, they’re often misunderstood or dismissed, leaving people feeling isolated and frustrated.
Our bodies and minds are deeply interconnected, so much so that unresolved emotional trauma can directly manifest in physical symptoms. This is where therapies like EMDR can make a real difference, helping to target the emotional roots that might be hiding beneath these physical pains.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is a therapeutic approach primarily used to address trauma and its lingering effects. It helps process difficult memories by engaging both sides of the brain through eye movements, tapping, or auditory stimuli, which facilitates the brain’s natural healing process. Imagine you’re organizing a cluttered closet. EMDR helps take out the “clutter” of painful or unprocessed memories, allowing your brain to make sense of and store them more comfortably. This can lead to decreased emotional distress and, often, relief from associated physical symptoms.
How EMDR Addresses Psychosomatic Issues
Many people hold onto emotional pain within their bodies, especially when they haven’t processed traumatic events. If you’ve ever noticed a tense neck when stressed or felt your stomach flip when nervous, you’ve experienced the mind-body connection at work. Psychosomatic symptoms often develop when these types of bodily responses to stress become chronic. By addressing underlying emotional pain with EMDR, you can lessen or even eliminate these physical symptoms over time.
Breaking Down the EMDR Process for Psychosomatic Relief
1. Identifying the Root Causes
In EMDR, we start by uncovering the memories or experiences that may be contributing to your current distress. For psychosomatic issues, this might involve exploring traumatic events, stressful experiences, or recurring negative beliefs that are “stuck” in your nervous system. It’s not always obvious which memories are contributing to your physical symptoms, and sometimes people uncover surprising connections during the EMDR process.
2. Processing Through Bilateral Stimulation
Once we identify these root memories or beliefs, EMDR therapists use bilateral stimulation (typically through guided eye movements or tapping) to help your brain process the distressing memory in a safe environment. The goal is to shift the way you relate to the memory, making it less emotionally charged and less likely to trigger a physical response.
3. Integrating the Experience
As your brain reorganizes and “files away” these memories, you’ll often notice an emotional and physical release. This integration phase helps your body and mind reconnect in a healthier way. Many clients report reduced physical pain, tension, and other psychosomatic symptoms as their body “lets go” of stored stress.
Combining CBT, SMP, and EMDR for Maximum Impact
Psychosomatic issues often involve complex emotional and physical factors, which is why integrating different therapeutic methods can lead to greater healing. Here’s how CBT and SMP complement EMDR:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps you identify and change negative thought patterns that could be reinforcing psychosomatic symptoms. For example, if you believe “I’ll always be in pain” or “I’m powerless to feel better,” these beliefs can worsen physical symptoms. CBT helps shift these thoughts, which, when combined with EMDR, can create a positive cycle of healing both mentally and physically.
Somatic Mindfulness Processing (SMP): SMP allows us to pay closer attention to what your body is telling you. Many people with psychosomatic symptoms struggle to connect with their physical sensations and emotions in a balanced way. SMP teaches you to mindfully observe your body’s signals, helping you release tension without fear or judgment. Together, EMDR and SMP encourage you to feel more “at home” in your body, leading to deeper, more lasting relief.
Success Stories: Real Change is Possible
Here are some inspiring examples of how EMDR can help with psychosomatic symptoms:
- Jane’s Journey with Migraines: Jane had struggled with debilitating migraines for years. She’d tried every treatment available but couldn’t seem to find relief. Through EMDR, she discovered that her migraines started shortly after a traumatic event in her childhood. By processing her memories, she noticed her migraines reduced significantly and eventually stopped altogether.
- Tom’s Triumph Over Back Pain: Tom had chronic lower back pain with no medical explanation. After exploring EMDR, he connected the pain to unresolved stress and grief from losing a loved one. After several EMDR sessions, his pain began to ease as he worked through his emotions.
- Sarah’s Stomach Issues: Sarah dealt with stomach issues that no diet or medication could cure. During EMDR therapy, she realized her stomach issues flared up during times of high anxiety and traced this back to a difficult period in her life. EMDR and SMP helped her break this cycle, and she now feels more in control of her digestive health.
Empowering You on Your Healing Journey
While psychosomatic symptoms can feel overwhelming, there is hope. EMDR therapy, especially when combined with CBT and SMP, can be life-changing for those dealing with these issues. Imagine finally feeling in control, knowing your body and mind are working in harmony. By addressing the root causes and teaching your body to “let go,” you can move beyond a life controlled by physical symptoms and start truly living.
Healing is a journey, and it’s perfectly okay if progress feels slow. Each step you take is a move toward a life filled with greater freedom, joy, and well-being. Remember, you’re not alone in this process.
Taking the First Step
If you’re struggling with psychosomatic symptoms, consider reaching out to set a free consultation. Together, we can create a personalized healing plan that addresses the unique connections between your mind, body, and emotions. A life of relief, clarity, and empowerment is possible—your healing journey can begin today.
SMP Therapy for Depression: A Body-Mind Approach to Healing
Have you ever noticed how your body feels when you’re feeling down? Maybe your shoulders slump, your chest feels heavy, or you just want to curl up in bed. There’s a fascinating reason for this: depression isn’t just in your head – it’s very much in your body too. This is where Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SMP) comes in, offering a unique and effective approach to treating depression by working with both mind and body. SMP therapy is a very unique and powerful approach to healing.
Understanding the Body-Depression Connection
Think of your body as a storyteller. When you’re depressed, it tells a story through your posture, movements, and physical sensations. Maybe you’ve noticed yourself walking more slowly, speaking more softly, or feeling physically “weighed down.” These aren’t just side effects of depression – they’re actually part of how depression maintains its grip on you.
How SMP Therapy Works Its Magic
Sensorimotor Psychotherapy takes a different route than traditional talk therapy. Instead of just discussing your feelings, we pay attention to what your body is telling us. Here’s what makes it special:
1. Mindful Body Awareness
In SMP sessions, we’ll work together to notice physical patterns that might be keeping you stuck in depression. It’s like becoming a friendly detective of your own body’s experiences. You might discover that when you’re feeling low, you tend to collapse your chest or hold your breath – patterns you never realized were there.
2. Movement and Posture
Small changes in how you hold yourself can lead to big changes in how you feel. By experimenting with different postures and movements, you might find that simply lifting your chin slightly or opening your chest can shift your emotional state. It’s not about “forcing” happiness – it’s about discovering what naturally helps you feel more alive and present.
3. Building Resources
Together, we’ll develop practical tools you can use anywhere. These might include simple grounding exercises, movement sequences, or breathing patterns that help you feel more centered and energized. Think of these as your personal “mood toolkit” – always available when you need it.
Why Choose SMP for Depression?
Traditional therapies like CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) are valuable tools, but sometimes we need to go beyond talking and thinking. SMP offers several unique benefits:
- It works with your body’s natural healing capacity
- You don’t have to talk about difficult things until you feel ready
- The skills you learn become natural habits
- Results often feel more lasting because they’re anchored in physical experience
Integrating SMP with Other Therapies
The beauty of SMP is that it works wonderfully alongside other therapeutic approaches. When combined with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) or CBT, it creates a comprehensive treatment approach that addresses depression from multiple angles. Think of it as using every tool in the toolbox to help you feel better.
What to Expect in an SMP Session
During our online sessions, you’ll learn to:
- Track physical sensations with curiosity rather than judgment
- Identify patterns between your movements and your moods
- Develop new ways of moving and being that support your well-being
- Practice simple exercises you can use between sessions
Ready to Take the First Step?
Depression can feel like being stuck in quicksand, but you don’t have to stay there. SMP offers a gentle yet powerful way to reconnect with your body’s natural capacity for healing and joy. Through this body-minded approach, many of my clients have discovered new pathways to feeling more alive, engaged, and present in their lives.
Remember, healing happens at your own pace, and every small step counts. If you’re curious about how SMP might help with your depression, I’m here to answer your questions and support your journey toward wellness.
Looking for support with depression? Contact us today to learn more about how Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, along with EMDR and CBT, can help you create lasting positive change. Online sessions available for your convenience.