What is EMDR?
From EMDR International Association: “Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a method of psychotherapy that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from many different treatment approaches. To date, EMDR has helped an estimated two million people of all ages relieve many types of psychological stress.”
Read EMDRIA’s definition of EMDR at: http://www.EMDRIA.org
What issues can I address with EMDR?
The use of EMDR has been widely researched, and found to be effective with many issues, including:
- Panic attacks
- Complicated grief
- Dissociative disorders
- Disturbing memories
- Phobias
- Pain disorders
- Eating disorders
- Performance anxiety
- Stress reduction
- Addictions
- Sexual and/or physical abuse
- Body dysmorphic disorders
- Personality disorders
What are your qualifications as an EMDR Therapist?
I am an experienced EMDR therapist, having been trained in 2000. I am an EMDRIA Approved Consultant and a Certified EMDR Therapist. I am experienced in treating a wide range of issues with EMDR. If for any reason your issues are outside my range of expertise, I will refer you to another qualified clinician with training and experience in the areas you require. Because it is important that you feel a sense of trust and rapport with me, so I encourage you to ask any and all questions you have.
Here are some important questions to ask of any EMDR practitioner:
- Have you completed the entire basic training? Yes, I received EMDR Training Part 1 in 2000, and EMDR Training Part 2 in 2002, which was the training required at that time.
- Was your training program approved by EMDRIA or EMDR Europe? My EMDR Basic Training was provided by the EMDR Institute, and approved by EMDRIA.
- Have you kept up to date about the latest protocols and developments? Yes, I have earned many hours of continuing education in EMDR, and I read the Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, EMDRIA Newsletter, and other sources of current research and practice in EMDR, including recently published books from recognized EMDR practitioners. I often attend the EMDRIA Annual Conference and several advanced trainings each year.
- How many people with my particular problems or disorder have you successfully treated? This will vary, of course, depending on the issues you wish to address. I have worked with trauma, addiction, panic attacks, complicated grief, disturbing dreams and memories, phobias, pain disorders, dissociative disorders, performance anxiety, stress, compulsions and obsessions, anger, and abuse.
- Do you provide standard EMDR therapy as it is (a) described in Dr. Shapiro’s text, (b) supported by EMDRIA, and (c) been tested in research? Yes. I utilize standardized EMDR therapy protocols for resource development, trauma resolution, addiction and relapse prevention, phobias, dissociation, chronic pain, and anxiety. Most issues can be treated within the scope of these protocols. Because I train other therapists in the use of EMDR therapy, I am very careful to maintain fidelity to the structure of EMDR therapy, which is more beneficial to clients than doing my own form of therapy.
- Will you discuss with me the way EMDR can deal with my obvious symptoms? Absolutely. We will work together on a plan to address the issues and symptoms you wish to resolve. We will review the plan as needed and make adjustments to help you benefit to the highest degree from your work.
- Will you also discuss with me the ways EMDR can be used to help me live a happier, more productive life by treating the other negative memories, beliefs, feelings, and actions that may be running my life? Absolutely! If EMDR can help with the issues you wish to address and I have the experience necessary to work with those issues, we will plan the treatment and proceed toward achieving your goals!
Can you complete a Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) form for me to give to my employer? Can you complete an American’s With Disabilities Act (ADA) form for me to give to my employer? Can you document for my attorney what you believe my work limitations are? Can you write a note for me to get accommodations based on my disability? Can you write the retirement board recommending that I retire due to a psychological injury?
No, the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners has determined that it is outside the scope of a Licensed Professional Counselor or a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor to document any evaluation of a client’s disabilities, required accommodations, work limitations, or capacity to work. I recommend you speak to your primary care physician or other specialist to complete the documentation you require.
What are your fees?
My fees vary, based on the requested service. Please contact me for current fee ranges. Keep in mind that payment is required at the time of service. Copays/coinsurance is accepted at the time of insurance and your insurance will be billed if you wish to use it.
Do you ever reduce your fees?
Slots for reduced fee services are available on a limited basis, and are in high demand so they are often completely taken
Do you take insurance?
I am a preferred provider for Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and United. I am also an EAP provider for many companies. Check with your employer about EAP (Employee Assistance Program) benefits.
Some insurance companies will allow out-of-network mental health services, and you should check with your carrier for possible benefits.
How can I make an appointment?
Please call me at (520) 661-5376 to let me know you would like to meet with me. We can discuss the details, how you were referred, and discuss a time that might be convenient.
More questions? Please call (520) 661-5376.
PLEASE NOTE: I only accept new clients who are public safety personnel/first responders at this time, still working or retired.