EMDR Therapy for Anxiety
Anxiety Therapy Los Angeles
Anxiety is a normal emotion we all experience at one time or another. It's what we feel when we're worried, nervous, or scared about something. But for some people, anxiety can be so strong and persistent that it interferes with their daily lives. If you're struggling with anxiety, don't hesitate to reach out to a licensed therapist for help.
EMDR Therapy for Anxiety: What to Expect During Your First Session
Your first session with an anxiety therapist can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Here's what you can expect during your initial visit:
First, your therapist will want to get to know you and your unique situation. This will involve discussing your symptoms, how long you have been experiencing them, and any other relevant information. Be as open and honest as possible during this conversation, as it will help your therapist develop the best treatment plan for you. In reality, an initial session for EMDR therapy for anxiety won’t look much different than the first session for any other type of therapy. An initial history taking, evaluation, and getting to know each other is an important part of any mental health intake meeting.
Your therapist will likely want to talk about your past experiences with anxiety and how you have coped with it. After that, your therapist will probably want to talk about your goals for treatment. What do you hope to achieve through therapy? What are your expectations? Discussing these things upfront will help ensure that you and your therapist are on the same page.
Don't be afraid to ask questions during your first session. This is your time to get to know your therapist and ensure they are a good fit for you. If you have any concerns, be sure to bring them up.
If you're feeling nervous about your first session, that's normal. Remember that your therapist is there to help you, and they will do everything they can to make you feel comfortable.
How Often Should You See an EMDR Anxiety Therapist?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how often you should see an anxiety therapist. The frequency of your visits will depend on the severity of your anxiety, your goals for treatment, and how well you are responding to therapy.
If you are seeking therapy for mild anxiety, you may only need to see your therapist once or twice a month. For more severe anxiety, you may choose to see your therapist weekly. The frequency of your visits will be influenced by the specific goals you are working on,, such as learning coping skills or dealing with a triggering event.
I tend to work in longer but less frequent, intensive sessions. This allows you to get more done in each session and not necessarily have to meet weekly. I also offer EMDR Intensives, where you carve out a week to meet for three ½ day sessions and then have less frequent follow-up care as needed. Every client and therapist has different preferences for the way they work, and you’ll want to look to find someone whose style and format will work for you.
What to Expect During Your Anxiety Treatment
During your sessions, your therapist will likely employ various techniques to help you manage your anxiety. In preparation for EMDR processing, they may teach you relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation. They may also help you identify and challenge your negative thoughts and beliefs about anxiety. They will provide you with tools and strategies for dealing with anxiety-provoking thoughts and situations so that when you use EMDR to target them, you’ll have the skills needed to manage any associated distress that comes up.
Your EMDR anxiety therapist will also provide you with support and guidance as you work to manage your anxiety and process the identified triggers and negative core beliefs that lead to them. They'll be there to encourage you when you're feeling good and to help you through the tough times.
Final Thoughts
If you're seeking treatment EMDR therapy for anxiety, know that you're not alone. Many people have found relief from their anxiety through EMDR therapy. With the help of an EMDR therapist, you can too.