EMDR for Anxiety, Panic & Phobia

Often, what is labeled as anxiety or panic can actually be a response to underlying trauma. Those who endure these episodes experience an acute discomfort, a relentless sense of fear and unease that feels almost tangible. The physical manifestations — a pounding heart, labored breathing, and an all-consuming feeling of impending doom — are not just symptoms of anxiety but can also be indicators of unresolved trauma. There is, however, a pathway to understanding and relief. Through this therapeutic journey, individuals can begin to untangle the roots of their anxiety and panic, transforming these overwhelming experiences into a more manageable and calmer state of being.

Live free from Panic and Perpetual Anxiety

Overcome issues with anxiety by addressing underlying traumas through integrative EMDR therapy.

Rebecca Hoffenberg, Psy.D
Clinical Psychologist
Expertises
Generalized, social anxiety & social phobia
Approach
EMDR, trauma-informed & mindfulness
Read more
Laura Faiwiszewski, Psy.D
Clinical Psychologist
Expertises
Generalized, career stress & panic attacks
Approach
EMDR, hypnotherapy & CBT
Read more
Irada Yunusova, Psy.D
Clinical Psychologist
Expertises
Generalized, social, & panic attacks
Approach
ACT, EMDR, EFT, attachment-focused
Read more
Leora Citrin, Psy.D
Clinical Psychologist
Expertises
Generalized, achievement anxiety, & panic attacks
Approach
EMDR, CBT & DBT
Read more
Make an appointment

How We Work with Anxiety, Worry & Panic

Our therapists integrate EMDR with other proven therapeutic techniques to assist individuals in overcoming challenges related to anxiety and panic, particularly those rooted in trauma. They skillfully treat adults dealing with a range of issues, from pervasive anxiety and recurrent panic attacks to specific concerns like phobias and stress disorders, often connected to traumatic past events. The goal is not just to alleviate symptoms of anxiety; it's about helping clients move beyond the confining cycle of fear and panic that trauma can intensify.

Their approach stands out because of their deep understanding of how trauma is intertwined with anxiety and panic disorders. Equipped with doctorates in Clinical Psychology and specialized training in these areas, they apply EMDR's powerful strategies to help clients confront and manage their fears, while also using CBT, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and analytic therapy to address and resolve the internal conflicts arising from traumatic experiences, thereby promoting emotional stability and resilience. Through this process, they guide individuals on a transformative journey, recognizing that overcoming anxiety and panic involves breaking free from the debilitating cycle of trauma-induced fear and panic, which can lead to significant mental and emotional turmoil.

"Our therapists delve into the impact of trauma on panic responses, recognizing that these reactions frequently originate from profound emotional traumas. They understand that trauma can manifest as panic episodes and heightened anxiety."

Our Specialists in EMDR for Anxiety, Panic & Phobia

Dr. Rebecca Hoffenberg

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Hoffenberg is an expert in the realm of anxiety, with a particular focus on social anxiety and related concerns. Her expertise extends to understanding how anxiety, especially when rooted in social issues, impacts individuals. She employs a range of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, trauma-informed methods, and mindfulness techniques, to effectively address and alleviate these anxieties. Her specialization lies in guiding clients through the intricacies of social anxiety, offering them valuable support and strategies for managing and overcoming these challenges.

Read More about Dr. Hoffenberg

Dr. Laura Faiwiszewski

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Faiwiszewski possesses a diverse range of expertise, with a particular emphasis on addressing general anxiety, career-related stress, and panic attacks. Her therapeutic style is characterized by a comprehensive approach, combining EMDR, hypnotherapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques to effectively assist clients in managing these challenges. Through the integration of EMDR, hypnotherapy, and CBT, she empowers clients to navigate and conquer the complexities of anxiety and stress, fostering a more balanced and confident approach to their career and overall well-being.

Read More about Dr. Faiwiszewski

Dr. Irada Yunusova

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Yunusova brings a deep understanding of how trauma can impact anxiety, panic attacks, and intrusive thoughts to her therapeutic practice. Her expertise lies in addressing these conditions using a combination of therapeutic approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), and attachment-focused methods. Through her holistic approach, she guides clients in managing and overcoming the effects of trauma on these anxiety-related challenges, leading to a more balanced and confident life.

Read More about Dr. Yunusova

Dr. Leora Citrin

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Leora Citrin brings a profound understanding of the connection between unresolved trauma and anxiety, including generalized anxiety, achievement-related stress, and panic attacks. Her expertise lies in relieving the effects of trauma through an integrated approach using EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). By addressing the root causes of trauma, Dr. Citrin helps her clients experience a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms, leading to greater emotional balance and a restored sense of calm and confidence.

Read More about Dr. Citrin

How EMDR Helps with Anxiety, Panic & Worry

It's a common misconception that anxiety, panic, and obsessive thinking issues are solely a result of psychological factors. What many people don't realize is that these intense bodily responses can actually be triggered by past traumatic experiences. When individuals come to us seeking help, they have often explored various therapies that may have offered temporary relief but didn't fully address the root causes of their anxiety and panic. This is where Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) proves to be highly effective. EMDR specifically targets the deep-seated trauma responses, going beyond the scope of traditional therapy methods that tend to focus solely on surface-level symptoms.

Numerous studies have demonstrated the therapeutic value of EMDR in reducing anxiety symptoms and improving overall emotional well-being. These studies have explored the use of EMDR in treating various forms of anxiety, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and obsessive thinking. The results consistently indicate that EMDR can significantly reduce anxiety levels by targeting the underlying traumatic experiences and negative beliefs that contribute to heightened anxiety. The ability of EMDR to process and reframe these distressing memories has been shown to lead to lasting reductions in anxiety and an improved quality of life for individuals struggling with anxiety disorders. This research underscores EMDR as a valuable tool in the treatment of anxiety, offering hope and relief to those who experience the burdens of anxiety-related challenges.

FAQ About EMDR for Anxiety, Stress & Worry

How does it work for anxiety?

EMDR is a therapeutic approach that helps individuals process traumatic memories and reduce their emotional impact. It works for anxiety by addressing the underlying traumatic experiences that contribute to anxious thoughts and reactions.

Is EMDR only effective for specific types of anxiety, or can it treat all forms of anxiety disorders?

EMDR has been used to treat various forms of anxiety, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, phobias, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Its effectiveness may vary depending on the individual and their specific condition.

Can EMDR help with anxiety-related symptoms like panic attacks and phobias?

Yes, EMDR has been effective in reducing anxiety-related symptoms such as panic attacks and phobias by addressing the underlying traumatic experiences that contribute to these symptoms.

Are the effects of EMDR therapy for anxiety long-lasting?

EMDR therapy aims to create lasting positive changes in how individuals respond to anxiety triggers. While individual results may vary, many people report long-lasting improvements in anxiety symptoms after completing EMDR treatment.

Who can benefit from EMDR therapy?

Anyone struggling with anxiety issues, particularly those related to past traumatic experiences, can benefit from EMDR therapy.

Ready To Feel More Calm and Present?

Allow us to guide you towards a mindset of empowerment, assisting you in breaking free from anxiety-inducing patterns and nurturing inner strength and a positive self-view.