Photo of Eileen M. Russell, Psychologist in 07042, NJ
Eileen M. Russell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I have been practicing, teaching, and writing about AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) for over 25 years.
People often come to me because they recognize something is not working and they are willing to admit that it is no longer fruitful to simply try to figure it out on their own. They are open to self-reflection, new ideas for coping, self-care, and communication with others. People present with all kinds of issues: depression and anxiety, relational struggles, difficulty connecting to what they want and following through on goals, unresolved trauma from the past or present, the use of coping mechanisms that had been helpful, but no longer are, and challenges posed by various life-stage transitions. We all need support in hard times.
I have been practicing, teaching, and writing about AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) for over 25 years.
People often come to me because they recognize something is not working and they are willing to admit that it is no longer fruitful to simply try to figure it out on their own. They are open to self-reflection, new ideas for coping, self-care, and communication with others. People present with all kinds of issues: depression and anxiety, relational struggles, difficulty connecting to what they want and following through on goals, unresolved trauma from the past or present, the use of coping mechanisms that had been helpful, but no longer are, and challenges posed by various life-stage transitions. We all need support in hard times.
(332) 239-2891 View (332) 239-2891
AEDP Therapists

Who is AEDP therapy for?

Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) is for adults who have experienced emotional pain in the past that, because it has not been adequately addressed and processed, interferes with current functioning. The problems might manifest in a number of different ways, from excessive anger to relationship difficulties to PTSD to eating disorders, poor self-esteem, and depression. They may also be accompanied by physiological symptoms. AEDP helps people accept and digest challenging emotional experiences.

Why do people need AEDP?

People need AEDP as a way to manage distressing emotions—including anger, shame, and guilt—that in some way hamper the ability to function and form satisfying relationships in the present. The therapist-client relationship is believed to provide corrective emotional and relational experiences that facilitate positive changes in brain function, forge pathways for processing traumatic experiences, and allow resolution of emotional pain.

What happens in AEDP therapy?

Once individuals have established a strong bond with the AEDP therapist and the therapist has established a safe and secure environment, clients are encouraged to explore their most painful emotional experiences. They may be asked to pay attention to disquieting body sensations as well as to psychological discomfort. Individuals learn how to process emotions, rather than avoid them. Through the strength of the therapist-client bond, each session is intended to provide a powerful positive experience for individuals, enabling growth.

What problems does AEDP treat?

AEDP is intended to treat the unprocessed emotional pain caused by earlier distressing experiences, which commonly includes behavioral avoidance of current situations and experiences for fear that they will reactivate painful feelings. Emotional pain and avoidant behavior play a role in a wide array of mental health conditions, which is why AEDP is applied to the treatment of a range of disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship difficulties, and eating disorders.