EMDR and Trauma Therapy in Virginia

Heal, Adapt, Thrive – EMDR helps you break through emotional barriers and embrace your fullest life.

Trauma Therapy in Reston, Virginia

What is different about EMDR?

EMDR harnesses the brain’s natural ability to learn, adapt, and heal—a process known as Adaptive Information Processing (AIP). Our minds are constantly updating memory networks, keeping what’s valuable from past experiences while letting go of what no longer serves us.

However, distressing or traumatic events can become “stuck,” preventing this adaptive learning. Instead of integrating with more positive experiences, these unresolved memories remain emotionally charged, influencing our perceptions, emotions, and behaviors. For example, even if we logically know we are worthy, past negative experiences may cause us to feel unworthy when faced with criticism.

EMDR helps reprocess these experiences by identifying negative and positive memory networks and using bilateral stimulation—such as eye movements or tapping—to activate the brain’s natural healing system. This helps us develop a healthier, more adaptive memory network that holds onto what serves us and releases outdated emotions, sensations, and beliefs. With EMDR, we don’t just know our worth—we genuinely feel it

What do EMDR sessions look like?

EMDR sessions are typically 60-90 minute sessions. During that time, we will:

  • Identify your concerns and the focus of our therapy together.

  • Learn new regulation skills to help you adaptively manage distress.

  • Explore your history and develop an understanding of your concerns.

  • Develop an overall treatment plan and target sequence plan for EMDR.

  • Activate and access negative beliefs and desired adaptive resolutions.

  • Process with sets of rapid eye movement (or other forms of bilateral stimulation) and free association which allows your brain to work through the experience.

  • Continue processing until the past experience has been updated to an adaptive perspective.

  • Once the concerns have been processed, we will integrate these new insights and perspectives into your daily life.

How I Can Help You

  • ART THERAPY

    Art therapy integrates the creative process of art-making with traditional theories of psychotherapy. t provides a space for exploring emotions, thoughts, and personal experiences through visual and creative lenses.

    No artistic skills or talent required. Just a willingness to create and experience the process.

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  • PREGNANCY

    I specialize in supporting women as they navigate the profound changes and complex emotions that accompany the journey into motherhood. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, process your feelings, and create personalized strategies to help you adapt to this transformative stage of life with confidence and resilience.

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  • POSTPARTUM

    With advanced training in treating postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD, I provide compassionate support to help women navigate these challenges. Together, we’ll develop practical strategies to enhance your ability to cope, allowing you to embrace more of the joy and fulfillment that this transformative time can bring.

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  • EMDR

    Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals process and heal from trauma and negative self-beliefs. Using guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, EMDR helps rewire the brain’s response to past experiences, reducing emotional distress and promoting resilience.

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  • EATING DISORDERS

    Using a trauma-informed and HAES®-aligned therapeutic approach, I help clients on their journey to recovery from eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image challenges. Together, we work toward fostering a healthier relationship with food, body, and self, grounded in compassion and respect.

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  • TRAUMA

    Through the integration of Art Therapy, EMDR, and somatically-focused counseling, I provide a compassionate and holistic approach to healing trauma, PTSD, and C-PTSD. Together, we’ll work to gently process your experiences, reconnect with your inner strength, and cultivate a sense of safety and empowerment in your life.

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Are you ready to start your healing journey?

I’d love to schedule a complimentary 20-minute consultation call to discuss your needs, answer any questions, and determine if we’re the right fit to work together on your journey.