Joanie Lemmon Bella

Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach designed to help heal the suffering caused by traumatic life events and memories, by using the body’s natural ability to heal. Using eye movement or other methods of bilateral stimulation, troubling memories are accessed and then reprocessed by the brain, lessening the distress of those difficult memories. EMDR does not cause memories to be forgotten, instead it allows you to feel them with much less pain and hurt. Research has shown EMDR to be effective in the reduction of painful memories, difficult emotions, intrusive thoughts, and disturbing images. It has also been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, PTSD, and somatic complaints. A Therapy Intensive is a cutting-edge approach to accelerate therapy, helping clients go deeper and get results faster. During a typical 50 minute EMDR therapy session, time may be focused on discussing thoughts and emotions that may have arisen between sessions, followed by grounding and stabilizing. This usually leaves about 30 minutes for reprocessing, and while this may work well for many, there are advantages to EMDR Intensives. They can be more effective and efficient than a typical therapy appointment, allowing for more depth work. Intensives are also a great alternative for those whose schedules don't allow for time off to attend weekly sessions. And while Intensives have a larger cost upfront the shorter duration of treatment can result in money saved. An EMDR Intensive may be right for you if: -you have an issue that impacts your functioning and you don't want to wait to see progress toward your goals. -you have a work or home life schedule that makes it difficult for you to keep regularly scheduled appointments. -you don't want to seek help locally due to privacy concerns. -you are a mental health or other medical professional and have relationships with the providers in your area. -you are the type of person that wants to jump right in and do your work all at once, rather than over time. If you are unsure if an EMDR Intensive therapy session is for you, I offer a free 30 minute consultation to explore if this is the right fit for you. Together we will determine how many days work best for you therapy goals. These days can be consecutive or spread out over time. All EMDR Intensive Therapy sessions include 2 60-MINUTE pre-EMDR sessions and one 60-MINUTE Post intensive Session. Weekend Rates add $250 per intensive day. I do accept some insurance plans and may be able to bill your insurance for the pre and post EMDR Intensive sessions. Please note: due to the demanding nature of several hours of therapy, intensives are offered in person only. I am a Certified EMDR therapist, a Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga Facilitator and a Soulcollage Facilitator. I have additional training in Internal Family Systems and Mindful Self-compassion. I enjoy weaving these modalities into sessions, if interested. I hold a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a post-masters certificate in addiction counseling from Antioch University New England. I'm passionate about supporting and empowering those I work with in developing the skills to improve their lives, relationships, and overall wellness.