Find Relief from Anxiety, Trauma, and Stress with Professional Therapy
Anxiety, stress, and trauma can sometimes feel overwhelming, affecting your daily routine, relationships, and overall well-being. While occasional stress is a natural part of life, persistent anxiety can lead to feelings of discomfort, dread, and even hopelessness. When anxiety begins to interfere with your ability to function and pursue your goals, it may be time to seek professional support.
As a licensed therapist specializing in both traditional talk therapy and EMDR therapy, I offer a compassionate, integrative approach to treating anxiety and trauma. My goal is to help you regain control, find relief, and develop long-term coping strategies tailored to your unique needs.
I've known Dr. Hemedes for a few years and recently had the pleasure of working with her as I conducted a psychological evaluation of one of her clients. Dr. Hemedes was really impressive in her clinical thinking and skills. She is an incredible therapist and someone you want to be around. Her warmth, humor and non-judgmental approach make you feel immediately at ease. I'll definitely be referring people to her!
- Chelsea B.
Understanding EMDR Therapy for Anxiety
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapeutic technique designed to help individuals process distressing memories and emotional trauma. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements) to help the brain reprocess negative experiences, reducing the emotional distress associated with past trauma.
How EMDR Therapy Works:
- Helps reprocess distressing memories and anxiety triggers
- Reduces the emotional intensity of traumatic experiences
- Uses bilateral stimulation to activate the brain's natural healing process
- Can be effective for individuals with PTSD, panic attacks, and chronic anxiety
Many clients experience significant relief from anxiety symptoms after completing EMDR therapy, allowing them to regain confidence and emotional stability.
The Power of Traditional Talk Therapy for Anxiety
While EMDR therapy targets past trauma and distressing memories, traditional talk therapy helps address anxiety by exploring thought patterns, emotions, and behaviors. Through a combination of insight-oriented therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness techniques, we will work together to:
- Identify the root causes of your anxiety
- Develop coping strategies to manage stress and intrusive thoughts
- Challenge unhelpful beliefs that contribute to anxious feelings
- Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to stay grounded in the present
- Use body-based approaches to target feelings of anxiety, including mindful attention to the impact that diet, sleep, and exercise have on symptoms
Traditional talk therapy provides a safe, supportive space where you can express your thoughts and emotions, gain clarity, and develop healthier perspectives on anxiety and stress.
Who Can Benefit from EMDR and Traditional Talk Therapy?
Both EMDR therapy and talk therapy can be highly effective for individuals experiencing:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Panic attacks and overwhelming stress
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Phobias and specific fears
- Emotional distress due to past trauma
- Relationship anxiety and self-esteem issues
If you find yourself struggling with persistent anxiety or feeling trapped by past experiences, therapy can help you break free and regain emotional balance.
What to Expect in Therapy Sessions
Each therapy journey is unique, but here’s what you can generally expect:
EMDR Therapy:
- Initial assessment to understand anxiety triggers and trauma history
- Guided bilateral stimulation exercises to reprocess distressing memories
- Gradual reduction in emotional distress and anxiety symptoms
Traditional Talk Therapy:
- Open discussions about anxiety and its impact on your life
- Exploration of past experiences that contribute to current struggles
- Development of practical tools to manage stress and anxious thoughts
- Learning relaxation and breathing techniques to help cope with anxiety peaks
- Regaining a sense of control and mastery over your emotions
- Uncovering the root causes of anxiety so you can begin to address them
The length and structure of therapy will depend on your individual needs, but my approach is always personalized and goal-oriented to help you find relief and long-term emotional well-being.
The Benefits of Combining EMDR and Talk Therapy
Many clients benefit from an integrative approach that combines EMDR and talk therapy. While EMDR focuses on processing past trauma, talk therapy helps build present-day coping skills and emotional resilience. Together, these therapies offer a comprehensive strategy for overcoming anxiety and achieving lasting relief.
- EMDR reduces the emotional charge of distressing memories
- Talk therapy helps you develop long-term strategies for managing anxiety
- Combining both approaches offers a holistic path to emotional healing
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If anxiety is holding you back, therapy can help you regain control and confidence in your life.
Whether through EMDR, traditional talk therapy, or a combination of both,
I am here to support you on your journey toward healing.
Contact me today to schedule a consultation
and take the first step toward a calmer, more balanced life.
Serving Walnut Creek, Danville, Lafayette, Orinda, Pleasant Hill, Concord, and surrounding areas.
Choose the convenience of in-person or virtual sessions.
Reach out now and begin your journey towards a calmer, more confident life.