EMDR for Depression

The link between chronic or relational trauma and profound feelings of depression is significant and frequently overlooked. Those who have endured such trauma commonly struggle with pervasive depressive feelings, feeling entrapped by intense sadness or a sense of hopelessness. Recognizing this connection is vital, as it illuminates the reasons behind the persistence of such deep emotional states, even when one rationally understands their own circumstances.

Fortunately, there is a path to healing. Utilizing therapeutic trauma-informed methods, individuals can begin to comprehend the roots of their depressive feelings, encouraging self-kindness and paving the way for a journey towards a life filled with greater fulfillment and self-compassion.

Free Yourself from Depressive Thoughts with EMDR

Overcome depression by addressing unhealthy, hopeless thoughts through CBT, hypnotherapy & EMDR.

Rebecca Hoffenberg, Psy.D
Clinical Psychologist
Expertises
Depression, social withdrawal & feelings of worthlessness
Approach
EMDR, trauma-informed & mindfulness
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Laura Faiwiszewski, Psy.D
Clinical Psychologist
Expertises
Depression, low motivation & irritability
Approach
EMDR, Hypnotherapy & CBT
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Irada Yunusova, Psy.D
Clinical Psychologist
Expertises
Depression, low self-esteem, rumination, & low motivation
Approach
ACT, EFT, attachment-focused & EMDR
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Leora Citrin, Psy.D
Clinical Psychologist
Expertises
Depression, rumination grief & loss
Approach
EMDR, trauma-informed & CBT
Read more
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How We Work with Depression

Depression, a complex and multifaceted mental health condition, often manifests through a profound loss of interest or pleasure in activities, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and a pervasive sense of negative thinking that obscures positive solutions. This condition can be intricately linked with deep-seated feelings of shame and guilt, where individuals battle a relentless inner critic that erodes their self-worth and value. This struggle is frequently concealed, as people might feel too embarrassed or fearful to share these feelings, creating a profound sense of isolation.

Our team of experienced Clinical Psychologists specializes in addressing the intricate interplay between depression, shame, and guilt, especially as it relates to relational trauma. They employ a comprehensive treatment approach, utilizing evidence-based therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). These methods are designed to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying emotional turmoil.

"Depression extends far beyond mere sadness, manifesting in symptoms such as loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, fatigue, changes in appetite, and feelings of worthlessness. By addressing underlying traumas, we can create strategies to untangle complex emotions, helping individuals lead more free and fulfilling lives."

Our Specialists in EMDR for Depression

Dr. Rebecca Hoffenberg

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Hoffenberg, with her specialized focus on depression, delves into how it's often intertwined with past trauma, particularly in cases involving social withdrawal and feelings of worthlessness. Her approach is deeply rooted in the understanding that these aspects of depression are frequently symptoms of unresolved traumatic experiences. By integrating EMDR, a trauma-informed methodology, and mindfulness practices, she creates a therapeutic space that is both healing and empowering.

Her primary objective is to help individuals connect the dots between their depression and past traumas. This process involves exploring how traumatic events can manifest as feelings of worthlessness and lead to social isolation. With EMDR, Dr. Hoffenberg assists her clients in confronting these traumatic memories, facilitating a reprocessing of these experiences in a way that reduces their emotional impact. Her empathetic and comprehensive approach aims to guide clients out of the grips of trauma-linked depression, paving the way for improved self-esteem and healthier social interactions.

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Dr. Laura Faiwiszewski

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Faiwisewski’s work with depression places a significant emphasis on addressing symptoms like low motivation and irritability, which can hinder one's ability to envision and strive towards a positive future. Her unique approach includes a blend of EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with a special focus on the transformative power of Hypnotherapy.

Hypnotherapy, in conjunction with EMDR and CBT, creates a powerful synergy in her therapeutic approach. EMDR addresses and reprocesses past traumatic experiences that might be contributing to depression, while CBT and hypnotherapy provide practical strategies for changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. By guiding clients through this process, she helps them break free from the cycle of negative thinking and low motivation often associated with depression. This comprehensive methodology enables Dr. Faiwisewski to not just alleviate the symptoms of depression, but also empower her clients to move forward with renewed optimism and motivation.

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Dr. Irada Yunusova

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Yunusova specializes in treating depression, with a particular focus on tackling symptoms such as guilt and negative thinking, which are critical in understanding and addressing the complexities of depression. Her therapeutic approach is a dynamic blend of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), offering a holistic and effective means of treatment.

EMDR plays a crucial role in her approach, especially for clients whose depression is rooted in or exacerbated by complex or relational traumatic experiences. This technique aids in processing and recontextualizing these experiences, thereby reducing their emotional impact. Together, these therapies form a comprehensive framework through which Dr. Yunusova guides her clients towards not only alleviating the symptoms of depression but also fundamentally transforming their relationship with guilt and negative thinking, paving the way for a more positive and fulfilling life.

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Dr. Leora Citrin

Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Leora Citrin, Psy.D., with her specialized focus on depression, rumination, grief, and loss, understands how these struggles often become deeply intertwined with unresolved trauma. Her approach is grounded in recognizing that depression and grief, particularly when they manifest as feelings of worthlessness, emotional numbness, and persistent negative thinking, can stem from past traumatic experiences that leave individuals feeling stuck. By integrating EMDR, trauma-informed care, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dr. Citrin fosters a therapeutic environment designed to support healing and forward movement.

Dr. Citrin’s primary goal is to help individuals uncover the links between their depression, grief, and unresolved trauma, allowing them to move past the pain that keeps them stuck. She works with clients to process their grief, guiding them through the overwhelming emotions and helping them to break free from the cycle of rumination and emotional paralysis. Through EMDR, she helps her clients confront and reprocess these painful memories, reducing their hold on the present and empowering them to move forward. Her compassionate and comprehensive approach supports individuals in moving past grief, rediscovering emotional resilience, and building a renewed sense of self-worth and purpose.

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How EMDR Helps Individuals Overcome Depression

Depression is frequently linked to relational or complex trauma, a connection that underscores the profound impact of interpersonal relationships and traumatic experiences on mental health. Relational trauma, which often arises from significant disruptions or harm within close relationships, can deeply affect an individual's emotional well-being, leading to feelings of abandonment, betrayal, or unworthiness. Similarly, complex trauma, resulting from repeated or prolonged exposure to highly stressful situations, can disrupt a person's sense of security and self-esteem. Both forms of trauma can set the stage for depression, manifesting as persistent sadness, withdrawal, and a pervasive sense of hopelessness. 

The intricate link between these traumatic experiences and depression highlights the importance of addressing the underlying emotional pain and disrupted attachment patterns in therapeutic interventions for effective healing and recovery from depression. 

Research on EMDR has been increasingly focusing on its effectiveness in treating depression, particularly when linked to traumatic experiences. Studies have demonstrated that EMDR can significantly reduce symptoms of depression, especially when it is a secondary condition to trauma. This is because EMDR targets the root causes of emotional distress by processing traumatic memories, which in turn alleviates associated depressive symptoms. One of the key strengths of EMDR highlighted in research is its potential for long-term effectiveness, suggesting a reduced likelihood of depressive relapse.

FAQ About EMDR for Depression

How does EMDR work for depression?

EMDR involves the patient recalling distressing events while receiving one of several types of bilateral sensory input, such as side-to-side eye movements. For depression, EMDR aims to process underlying traumatic experiences that may contribute to depressive symptoms.

Can EMDR be used in conjunction with other depression treatments?

Yes, EMDR can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often used alongside other therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or medication.

What makes EMDR different from other trauma therapies for depression?

EMDR focuses on the patient's present emotions and symptoms and the historical incidents that contribute to them. It's unique in its use of bilateral stimulation to aid in processing trauma.

Can EMDR be used to treat childhood trauma that's contributing to adult depression?

Yes, EMDR is effective in treating childhood traumas that may be underlying causes of adult depression. It allows individuals to process and heal from these early traumatic experiences.

What can I expect in terms of improvement from EMDR therapy?

While individual experiences vary, many report significant improvement in their symptoms of depression, especially in how they handle emotional distress related to trauma.

Ready To Rid Yourself of Depressing Thoughts and Feelings?

Embark on a journey towards self-understanding and freedom from the grip of depression. Allow us to guide you towards a more peaceful state of mind, nurturing a harmonious relationship with your emotions and thoughts.