No, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is not the same as hypnosis, though they both work on accessing deeper parts of the mind and can feel somewhat similar in creating a relaxed, focused state. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

1. Approach and Technique:

   • EMDR involves guided eye movements or other bilateral stimulation (like tapping or sound) while the person recalls a distressing memory. This process helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge.

   • Hypnosis typically involves a therapist guiding someone into a deeply relaxed or altered state, often referred to as a “trance,” to make them more receptive to suggestions and explore the subconscious.

2. State of Consciousness:

   • In EMDR, the person stays fully conscious and aware of the present moment and remains in control of the process.

   • In hypnosis, people may enter a trance-like state, where they feel more detached from their immediate surroundings.

3. Goal and Purpose:

   • EMDR is specifically designed for trauma processing and aims to help the brain resolve traumatic memories so they no longer trigger distress.

   • Hypnosis can have broader goals, like managing habits, reducing stress, or exploring subconscious issues, and is used for various therapeutic purposes beyond trauma.

Both can be powerful tools, but they serve different purposes and work through different mechanisms. EMDR’s structured, step-by-step process for trauma makes it unique and distinct from hypnosis.

My private-pay rates are $338 for 90 minutes, and $675 for a 3-hour intensive.

I don't bill insurance directly, but I'm partnered with Mentaya to help clients use their out-of-network benefits to save money on therapy. Use this tool below to see if you qualify for reimbursement for my services.

Honestly, I used to offer 60-minute sessions as the standard. But I found more often that clients stayed stuck longer, coming into therapy weekly or bi-weekly and never really able to move out of the trauma they were bringing in. EMDR needs room to open something up, move through it, and close it back down before you walk out the door. In 60 minutes, a meaningful chunk of that hour goes to arriving and settling, which leaves very little actual reprocessing time and often means stopping mid-stream. Ninety minutes lets us get somewhere and land the plane.

So here is what I offer now:

90 Minute sessions that start weekly and are re-assessed after four sessions.

A 90-Minute Foundational session, followed by a 3-hour intensive and then a 90-minute integration session where we re-assess.

Biweekly is available, but not at the start. In the early phase we're building the foundation the work rests on, and spacing sessions two weeks apart tends to mean re-establishing ground each time instead of building on it. Once you've had a month or so of weekly work and we both agree you're steady between sessions, biweekly becomes a real option and often a good one. We'll look at it together at your monthly check-in.

If the frequency is a financial question rather than a scheduling one, say so on our consultation call. Out-of-network benefits, HSA and FSA funds, and payment plans through Klarna and Affirm can help with that piece.

In Phoenix, therapy costs can vary based on factors like the therapist's qualifications, experience, and the type of therapy provided. On average, in-person therapy sessions range from $100 to $250 per 60 minute session.

The terms "psychologist" and "therapist" refer to different roles within mental health care:

• Psychologist: A psychologist holds a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology. They are trained in assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health disorders. Psychologists often conduct psychological testing and research and may provide therapy.

• Therapist: "Therapist" is a broader term that includes professionals trained to provide mental health treatment. This category encompasses psychologists, licensed professional counselors (LPCs), marriage and family therapists (MFTs), and clinical social workers. Therapists may have varying levels of education and training, typically ranging from master's degrees to doctorates.

If you're dealing with a specific, immediate concern, counseling might be appropriate. For more complex or chronic issues, therapy could be more beneficial. Consulting with a mental health professional can help determine the best approach for your situation.

• Counseling: Generally focuses on addressing specific issues or life challenges, such as career decisions, grief, or relationship problems. Counseling is often short-term and goal-oriented.

• Therapy: A broader term that can encompass counseling but often involves exploring deeper patterns of behavior, emotional difficulties, and mental health disorders. Therapy may be more long-term and delve into underlying issues.

In practice, the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, and the specific qualifications and approach of the individual professional are more important than the title.

Understanding these distinctions can help you choose the right professional and approach for your mental health needs.

• Counselor: Typically refers to professionals who focus on helping clients navigate specific issues or life changes. Counselors often hold a master's degree in counseling or a related field and may be licensed as LPCs

• Therapist: A more inclusive term that can refer to counselors, psychologists, social workers, and other professionals providing mental health services. Therapists may have varying levels of education and training.