Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
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Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) combines mindfulness practice with tools designed to strengthen awareness of mental, emotional, behavioral patterns that contribute to distress. The goal of MBCT is to develop increased present-moment awareness, self-compassion, mental clarity, and deeper connection with the self.
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MBCT can involve the following:
Increasing awareness of mental, emotional, and behavioral patterns
Learning mindfulness practices and beginning a mindfulness routine
Learning to sit with and witness emotional distress
Increasing body awareness
Engaging in breathwork
Learning mindfulness-based tools for emotional regulation and processing
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You may be a good fit for this approach if you’re interested in beginning a mindfulness practice, struggle with symptoms of stress and anxiety, notice yourself engaging in coping skills that aren’t too helpful, and/or have difficulty with overthinking and negative self-talk.
If you’re still wondering if you’re a good fit, schedule a 15-minute consultation at this link.
EMDR
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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a method of processing trauma and distressing events using bilateral stimulation (BLS). The BLS supports reduction in emotional activation and improved communication in the two hemispheres of your brain, which allows for more mental and emotional space to process distressing memories. This can be done through alternating eye movements, sound, or tapping.
When something distressing happens, your brain may hold onto it in a way that keeps the emotions or sensations feeling very present — even long after the event. Bilateral stimulation helps your brain file those memories away properly, so you can remember what happened without feeling overwhelmed by it.
EMDR can also support improved mind/body connection and increase awareness on how the body is impacted by mental and emotional distress.
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In a telehealth session, we will use a virtual EMDR platform to access bilateral stimulation through eye movements and/or sound. Before processing any memories, we will take time to review your current mental health and/or behavioral challenges, complete a trauma history, learn and practice healthy emotional regulation skills, and address any active stressors that may keep us from processing trauma safely and effectively.
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Before engaging in EMDR, we’ll complete an extensive mental health history to address any challenges that may hinder safe trauma processing. This may include active substance abuse, history of psychosis or severe mental illness, and/or active safety concerns.
For more questions about fit for EMDR, please schedule a free consultation at this link.
Somatic-Based Therapy
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Somatic-based therapy is an approach designed to enhance mind/body connection and address mental and emotional distress through increased body awareness and tools that encourage release of trapped emotional energy in the body. Somatic therapy can also be supportive in addressing nervous system dysregulation resulting from chronic stress, anxiety, PTSD, and complex trauma.
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Somatic therapy may involve the following:
Breathwork
Mindfulness practice
Movement
Attuning to physical sensations
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Somatic-based therapy may be a good fit for you if you struggle with overthinking or “spending too much time in your head,” want to build a healthier relationship with your body, or have noticed impacts of stress and anxiety on your ability to regulate your emotions and attune to your body’s needs.
For more questions about somatic-based therapy, please schedule a free consultation at this link.