Get EMDR Therapy you can count on.
Serving Montrose, Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, and all cities across CA.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I provide deeply personalized, trauma-informed care for clients seeking a thoughtful and effective path toward healing. My practice is designed to offer a calm, private, and supportive therapeutic environment where individuals, couples, and teens can engage in meaningful inner work with depth, intention, and care.
I believe therapy should be both clinically grounded and highly individualized. My approach integrates evidence-based modalities with a nuanced understanding of trauma, creating a therapeutic experience that is compassionate, attuned, and tailored to the unique needs of each client. Every aspect of care is approached with sensitivity, professionalism, and respect for the complexity of each person’s healing process.
I am committed to offering a standard of care that feels both deeply supportive and exceptionally intentional. My goal is to help clients move beyond patterns of distress and toward greater clarity, resilience, emotional balance, and lasting well-being. Through a refined, relational, and trauma-informed approach, I strive to create a space where genuine healing and meaningful transformation can unfold.
Grief is a complex and deeply personal experience that can affect every aspect of our lives. Whether it stems from the loss of a loved one, the end of a significant relationship, or even the loss of a dream, the journey through grief can often feel overwhelming. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we understand the profound impact that grief can have, and we’re here to help individuals navigate this challenging path. One of the most effective tools in our toolkit is EMDR therapy, which stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. This article will explore how EMDR can facilitate healing during the grieving process, offering insight into the stages of grief and the effectiveness of this unique therapeutic approach.
Grief is not a linear process; rather, it is a journey that can involve a range of emotions and experiences. Elizabeth Kübler-Ross, a renowned psychiatrist, outlined five stages of grief that many people encounter:
Understanding these stages can help individuals recognize their feelings as a natural part of the grieving process. However, many people struggle to move through these stages effectively, leading to prolonged grief and emotional distress. This is where EMDR therapy can be particularly beneficial.
Experience compassionate trauma-informed therapy designed to support your emotional healing and recovery, helping you navigate psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress with expert guidance and understanding.
Experience compassionate self-esteem counseling that empowers you to build confidence, enhance your self-worth, and improve your body image through personalized therapy tailored to your unique journey.
Experience compassionate anxiety therapy designed to help you manage anxiety disorders, overcome challenges, and find peace through personalized support and effective treatment strategies.
EMDR therapy is a structured approach that helps individuals process traumatic memories and experiences. Initially developed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR has shown remarkable effectiveness in addressing various emotional challenges, including grief and loss. The therapy involves the use of bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye movements, which helps the brain reprocess distressing memories and emotions.
During an EMDR session, a therapist will guide the individual through recalling the memory of their loss while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This process allows the individual to confront painful emotions in a safe environment, facilitating healing and integration of the experience. Clients often report feeling a sense of relief and clarity after engaging in EMDR, making it a powerful tool for those coping with grief.
EMDR therapy can be instrumental in helping individuals process their grief for several reasons. Grief is not just a simple emotional response; it can manifest through various physical, mental, and social symptoms. EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a therapeutic approach designed to help individuals process distressing memories and emotions. It provides a structured method to address the complex feelings associated with grief, ultimately facilitating healing.
One of the core mechanisms of EMDR is its ability to promote emotional processing. When someone experiences a significant loss, they often find themselves overwhelmed by intense feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, and even relief. These emotions can be difficult to navigate. EMDR helps individuals confront and process these emotions in a safe environment, allowing them to move through the stages of grief more effectively. For instance, during an EMDR session, a therapist may guide the individual to recall specific memories associated with their loss while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements. This process can create a sense of distance from the overwhelming emotions, enabling the individual to process their feelings without becoming completely engulfed by them.
To promoting emotional processing, EMDR significantly reduces symptoms of grief. Many individuals experience symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and emotional numbness after a loss. These symptoms can severely impact daily functioning and overall quality of life. EMDR can help alleviate these symptoms by targeting the root memories and emotions connected to the grief. For example, a person who has lost a loved one may frequently feel anxious when thinking about their future without that person. Through EMDR, they can address these feelings directly, often leading to a reduction in anxiety and an increased sense of hope for the future.
Another crucial aspect of EMDR therapy is that it encourages the integration of the experience of loss into the individual’s life narrative. Grief can feel isolating, and many individuals struggle with the idea of moving on or forgetting the person they lost. EMDR helps individuals reframe their memories and emotions related to the loss, allowing them to honor their loved ones while also acknowledging their own needs for healing. For instance, a person may come to terms with the idea that while their loved one is no longer physically present, their influence and legacy can continue to shape their life positively. This reframing can be a powerful step toward acceptance.
EMDR therapy enhances coping skills that are essential for long-term healing. By processing feelings and memories, individuals can develop healthier coping mechanisms that equip them to handle future challenges more effectively. For example, rather than resorting to avoidance or substance use to numb the pain of grief, individuals may learn to engage in mindful practices, seek social support, or express their feelings through creative outlets. This transformation is often facilitated by the therapist, who guides the individual in developing personalized coping strategies that resonate with their lifestyle and preferences.
EMDR therapy offers a safe space for individuals to express their grief without judgment. This aspect is particularly important, as many people may feel isolated or misunderstood in their grief journey. in a supportive therapeutic environment, individuals can share their thoughts and feelings freely, allowing for the release of pent-up emotions. This therapeutic alliance can be a crucial component of the healing process, as it fosters trust and encourages individuals to explore their grief more deeply.
One practical guidance for individuals considering EMDR for grief and loss is to research and find a qualified therapist who specializes in this type of therapy. It is essential to engage with a professional who is trained in EMDR and has experience working with clients dealing with grief. During the initial sessions, the therapist will typically conduct a thorough assessment to understand the individual's unique situation and establish goals for therapy. This collaborative approach ensures that the therapy is tailored to the individual's specific needs.
Another important consideration is the commitment to the process. EMDR therapy can be intense and may evoke strong emotions, but it is essential to remain committed to the healing journey. Individuals should prepare themselves by understanding that healing from grief is not linear; it may involve ups and downs. Regular attendance at therapy sessions and practicing any coping strategies discussed with the therapist can enhance the effectiveness of EMDR.
For those who may be apprehensive about EMDR, it can be helpful to remember that the therapy is designed to empower individuals. The goal is not to erase the memories of the loved one but to change the way those memories affect the present. By working through the grief with the support of EMDR, individuals can reclaim their lives and find joy in new experiences while still cherishing the memories of those they have lost.
EMDR therapy offers a comprehensive approach to healing from grief by promoting emotional processing, reducing symptoms, integrating the experience into life narratives, and enhancing coping skills. For those navigating the difficult terrain of grief and loss, EMDR can be a transformative tool that facilitates a deeper understanding of their emotions and paves the way for a more hopeful future.
Clear, practical answers for people considering Trauma Therapy and looking for a thoughtful next step.
Touchstone Trauma Therapy is a mental health practice located in Montrose, CA, specializing in trauma therapy. We provide personalized care to help clients navigate challenges such as trauma, anxiety, and depression through holistic, trauma-informed approaches.
Our services are designed for individuals, couples, and teens who are facing mental health challenges. Whether you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, emotional overwhelm, chronic stress, perfectionism, or feelings of disconnection, we are here to support you on your healing journey.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we offer a range of trauma-informed therapies tailored to individual needs. Our approaches may include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness and Somatic therapies, and other holistic methods aimed at promoting healing and resilience.
If you are experiencing persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, or distress related to past experiences, trauma therapy may be beneficial. Our team can help assess your needs and guide you toward appropriate support.
During your first session at Touchstone Trauma Therapy, you will meet with a therapist who will discuss your background, current challenges, and goals for therapy. This initial assessment helps us create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Yes, therapy sessions at Touchstone Trauma Therapy are confidential. We adhere to strict ethical guidelines to ensure your privacy and safety, allowing you to share your experiences in a secure and supportive environment.
Somatic Therapy is a form of body-centered therapy that emphasizes the connection between the brain, mind, and body. It utilizes body awareness as a therapeutic tool to explore and resolve the somatic (physical) symptoms of psychological issues. This approach helps individuals recognize and release the physical tension that remains in the body due to past trauma and stress.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformative therapeutic model of psychotherapy that helps individuals understand and harmonize the various parts within themselves. According to IFS, we all have different parts within us that carry different thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. These parts can sometimes conflict with each other and create internal struggles and difficulties in our lives. IFS is commonly utilized to work with trauma memories or difficult childhood experiences.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured approach that treats trauma by safely reconnecting individuals with the traumatic images, thoughts, emotions, and body sensations they experienced, leveraging the brain’s natural healing process—Adaptive Information Processing (AIP).
Unlike traditional talk therapy, which often focuses on the traumatic event itself, EMDR targets the emotional disturbances and symptoms stemming from the trauma. The goal is to process these troubling memories, reduce their impact, and help clients develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Through EMDR, memories are transferred from the emotional part of the brain (limbic system) to long-term storage, transforming them from intrusive relived experiences into memories of past events that no longer wield disruptive power.
Research has shown that EMDR therapy is effective in treating not only PTSD but also various emotional difficulties, including grief. Clients who have undergone EMDR therapy often report significant improvements in their emotional state and overall quality of life. Many individuals find that EMDR allows them to create a new relationship with their memories, one that is less painful and more integrated into their lives.
Grief is a complex emotional process that can manifest in numerous ways, including sadness, anger, confusion, and even physical symptoms. The journey through grief can feel overwhelming, especially when compounded by traumatic memories associated with loss. EMDR for grief and loss offers a structured approach to processing these feelings, helping individuals to navigate their emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we have witnessed firsthand the transformative effects of EMDR on individuals facing grief. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses the unique needs of each client. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to heal and find peace, and EMDR therapy can be a vital part of that journey.
One of the key aspects of EMDR therapy is its focus on the dual attention stimulation process, which helps clients to process distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in a grounding technique. This process can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with grief, as it encourages clients to confront painful memories without becoming overwhelmed by them. Some of the specific ways EMDR can assist in the healing process include:
EMDR therapy incorporates a number of techniques tailored to address specific grief-related challenges. For example, clients may be encouraged to visualize their loved one in a safe and comforting space during sessions, allowing them to explore their feelings in a supportive context. This can provide a sense of connection during a time when many feel isolated in their grief.
Another essential element of EMDR is its adaptability. The therapy can be customized to suit the unique needs of each individual. Some clients may benefit from focusing on specific memories related to their grief, while others might work on general feelings of loss or longing. This flexibility ensures that the therapy is relevant and impactful for each person’s unique experience.
As part of the EMDR process, clients often engage in a thorough history-taking session, where they discuss their grief experiences, the circumstances surrounding their loss, and any other relevant life events. This comprehensive understanding allows therapists to tailor the EMDR sessions effectively, ensuring that the focus remains on the most pertinent issues for the individual.
It’s also important to highlight that EMDR therapy is not a quick fix. Healing from grief is a deeply personal journey that takes time, and EMDR is one of many tools that can support individuals in this process. Many clients find that the therapy opens doors to deeper self-reflection, helping them uncover underlying emotions that may have been suppressed. This can lead to profound insights and transformations, allowing for a more integrated approach to their grief.
In terms of practical guidance, individuals considering EMDR for grief and loss should look for a licensed therapist who specializes in this form of therapy. It’s essential to ensure that the therapist is trained in EMDR and has experience working with grief-related issues. A good therapist will create a safe, supportive space and will work collaboratively with clients throughout their healing journey.
Clients may want to prepare for their sessions by reflecting on their grief experiences and identifying specific memories or feelings they wish to address. Keeping a journal can be an excellent way to track emotions and thoughts that arise between sessions, providing valuable material for discussion and exploration in therapy.
It’s essential to approach EMDR with an open mind and a willingness to engage with uncomfortable feelings. While this may seem daunting, many clients find that the relief and healing that comes from processing their grief is well worth the initial discomfort. EMDR therapy not only facilitates healing but also empowers individuals to live more fully, honoring their loved ones while embracing their own path forward.
EMDR for grief and loss represents a powerful therapeutic option for those struggling with the painful realities of loss. By facilitating the processing of traumatic memories and emotions, EMDR can help individuals find peace, acceptance, and a renewed sense of hope. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we remain committed to supporting our clients through their grief journeys, using EMDR as a cornerstone of our therapeutic approach.
Experience compassionate depression counseling and effective clinical depression therapy tailored to your needs, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you overcome major depressive disorder and mood disorders.
Experience compassionate EMDR therapy tailored for healing from PTSD, anxiety, phobias, grief, and abuse recovery, helping you navigate complex trauma and reclaim your life with confidence.
Experience healing through Somatic Experiencing Therapy, a holistic approach that combines body-oriented psychotherapy and mind-body techniques to alleviate stress and anxiety, promoting deep relaxation and emotional well-being.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, seeking support is an important first step toward healing. Whether you are navigating Trauma Therapy, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm, this is a calm place to begin with trust, care, and intention.
Talk with a trusted therapist and take the next step forward with confidence.
Trauma-informed care is an approach to therapy that recognizes how past trauma can affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, relationships, and physical responses. It focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and never pressured. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, trauma-informed care means tailoring treatment to each person’s needs while using approaches that support healing at a pace that feels manageable and safe. At TTT, we utilize Evidence Based modalities such as EMDR, IFS and Somatic/Mindfulness that are effective in addressing and healing from trauma, including complex trauma.
Starting therapy begins with reaching out to schedule an initial consultation or first appointment. During that first step, we will talk about what brings you to therapy, your goals, and any questions you may have about the process. From there, we can determine the best approach for your needs and begin creating a treatment plan that feels supportive, personalized, and manageable.
Yes, therapy sessions are confidential. Protecting your privacy is an important part of creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space. There are a few legal and ethical limits to confidentiality, which will be reviewed with you at the beginning of therapy, but in general, what you share in session is kept private and treated with care and respect.
Somatic therapy supports trauma healing by helping clients notice and work with how trauma is held in the body, not just in thoughts or memories. Trauma can affect the nervous system in ways that lead to tension, overwhelm, numbness, or feeling constantly on edge. Through gentle body-based awareness and regulation techniques, somatic therapy helps clients reconnect with their bodies, build a greater sense of safety, and process trauma in a way that feels grounded and manageable.
That is completely understandable. Not every therapy experience is the right fit, and a previous approach that did not feel helpful does not mean therapy cannot be meaningful for you now. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I offer a personalized, trauma-informed approach tailored to your unique needs, goals, and pace. Together, we work to create a safe and supportive space that feels more aligned with the healing you are seeking.
Your first therapy session is an opportunity for me to begin building a thoughtful understanding of your experiences, concerns, and goals. I will guide the conversation with care, creating space to discuss what brings you to therapy, your personal history, and any questions you may have about the process. This initial session is designed to help you feel at ease while laying the foundation for a therapeutic approach that is personalized to your needs.
Experience transformative healing with Internal Family Systems Therapy, a compassionate approach that nurtures your inner parts, promoting personal growth and resilience through effective trauma healing and self-led therapy.
Experience compassionate and evidence-based PTSD treatment, including trauma-focused therapy and clinical counseling, designed to support your journey towards healing and recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Experience compassionate relationship trauma counseling that focuses on healing interpersonal wounds, fostering secure attachments, and promoting resilience through specialized attachment-based therapy tailored to your unique journey.
Experience compassionate grief and loss counseling that supports your healing journey, helping you navigate bereavement, cope with loss, and find peace through specialized therapy tailored to your needs.
Experience compassionate support with our Stress and Emotional Overwhelm Therapy, designed to help you manage stress, regulate emotions, and overcome burnout through effective techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Healing from grief is a deeply personal journey that requires time, patience, and support. If you or someone you know is struggling with the pain of loss, consider exploring EMDR therapy as a viable option for healing. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we specialize in trauma therapy, offering a safe and supportive environment for individuals, couples, and teens facing mental health challenges.
Our team is committed to using holistic, trauma-informed approaches tailored to each individual's needs. We invite you to reach out to us for a consultation to discuss how EMDR therapy can assist you in navigating your grief and loss recovery journey. Together, we can work towards restoring balance and peace in your life.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit our website or contact us directly. Your path to healing starts here, and we are here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Individual therapy for clients ages 14 and older offers a personalized space to work through life's challenges, deepen self-understanding, and support lasting emotional well-being.
Trauma-informed care is an approach to therapy that recognizes how past trauma can affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, relationships, and physical responses. It focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and never pressured. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, trauma-informed care means tailoring treatment to each person’s needs while using approaches that support healing at a pace that feels manageable and safe. At TTT, we utilize Evidence Based modalities such as EMDR, IFS and Somatic/Mindfulness that are effective in addressing and healing from trauma, including complex trauma.
Starting therapy begins with reaching out to schedule an initial consultation or first appointment. During that first step, we will talk about what brings you to therapy, your goals, and any questions you may have about the process. From there, we can determine the best approach for your needs and begin creating a treatment plan that feels supportive, personalized, and manageable.
Yes, therapy sessions are confidential. Protecting your privacy is an important part of creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space. There are a few legal and ethical limits to confidentiality, which will be reviewed with you at the beginning of therapy, but in general, what you share in session is kept private and treated with care and respect.
Somatic therapy supports trauma healing by helping clients notice and work with how trauma is held in the body, not just in thoughts or memories. Trauma can affect the nervous system in ways that lead to tension, overwhelm, numbness, or feeling constantly on edge. Through gentle body-based awareness and regulation techniques, somatic therapy helps clients reconnect with their bodies, build a greater sense of safety, and process trauma in a way that feels grounded and manageable.
That is completely understandable. Not every therapy experience is the right fit, and a previous approach that did not feel helpful does not mean therapy cannot be meaningful for you now. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I offer a personalized, trauma-informed approach tailored to your unique needs, goals, and pace. Together, we work to create a safe and supportive space that feels more aligned with the healing you are seeking.
Your first therapy session is an opportunity for me to begin building a thoughtful understanding of your experiences, concerns, and goals. I will guide the conversation with care, creating space to discuss what brings you to therapy, your personal history, and any questions you may have about the process. This initial session is designed to help you feel at ease while laying the foundation for a therapeutic approach that is personalized to your needs.
Our services are designed for individuals, couples, and teens seeking support for mental health challenges.
Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, or self-esteem concerns, Touchstone Trauma Therapy is here to guide you on your journey to healing.
TTT offers services to the cities of Montrose, Glendale, La Crescenta, La Canada, Burbank and Pasadena. TTT also offers remote video sessions throughout the state of California.
Individual therapy for clients ages 14 and older offers a personalized space to work through life's challenges, deepen self-understanding, and support lasting emotional well-being.
