EMDR Therapists in Johnson County, IA
Ryan Richard Terribile
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52245
While I believe that there is no one size fits all approach to therapy; I am extensively trained in Cognitive-Behavior Therapy as well as EMDR.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space for people from all walks of life. Whether is is the rolling back of women's rights, attacks on our LGBTQIA+ communities, the spread of antisemitism, police violence, or attacks on Asian communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is no wonder that so many people are experiencing anxiety, trauma, and depression. If you have ever felt attacked, judged, or ashamed to be yourself, I would love to help you advocate for your self and find peace in this world.
While I believe that there is no one size fits all approach to therapy; I am extensively trained in Cognitive-Behavior Therapy as well as EMDR.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space for people from all walks of life. Whether is is the rolling back of women's rights, attacks on our LGBTQIA+ communities, the spread of antisemitism, police violence, or attacks on Asian communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is no wonder that so many people are experiencing anxiety, trauma, and depression. If you have ever felt attacked, judged, or ashamed to be yourself, I would love to help you advocate for your self and find peace in this world.
Kristen Mahannah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Mindfulness and many other techniques are all a part of the toolbox I used to help you improve your mental health.
I specialize in therapy for depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Everyone has the potential to grow through therapy and lead a more fulfilling life. I work with, children, teens, and adults of all ages.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Mindfulness and many other techniques are all a part of the toolbox I used to help you improve your mental health.
I specialize in therapy for depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Everyone has the potential to grow through therapy and lead a more fulfilling life. I work with, children, teens, and adults of all ages.
Currently taking new clients interested in EMDR or Prolonged Exposure Therapy.
I am fully trained in EMDR and working towards my certification. I also practice person centered, CBT, EFT for couples, and narrative therapy. Recently trained in exposure therapy.
Currently taking new clients interested in EMDR or Prolonged Exposure Therapy.
I am fully trained in EMDR and working towards my certification. I also practice person centered, CBT, EFT for couples, and narrative therapy. Recently trained in exposure therapy.
Using EMDR to treat relational trauma rooted in your family of origin and high-functioning anxiety are the main issues I specialize in.
I’m really glad you’re here. If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in old patterns, or disconnected from who you really are, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. I help people (ages 14+) move through trauma, anxiety, and self-doubt so they can reconnect with themselves in a deeper, more grounded way. Many of the people I work with carry the weight of past experiences—whether it’s relationship pain, childhood wounds, or feeling like your mind and body just aren’t on the same page. Navigating life with layered identities can be heavy. Here, there’s space for all of you—just as you are. You’re fully welcome.
Using EMDR to treat relational trauma rooted in your family of origin and high-functioning anxiety are the main issues I specialize in.
I’m really glad you’re here. If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in old patterns, or disconnected from who you really are, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. I help people (ages 14+) move through trauma, anxiety, and self-doubt so they can reconnect with themselves in a deeper, more grounded way. Many of the people I work with carry the weight of past experiences—whether it’s relationship pain, childhood wounds, or feeling like your mind and body just aren’t on the same page. Navigating life with layered identities can be heavy. Here, there’s space for all of you—just as you are. You’re fully welcome.
Jeffrey J Whittlesey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52245
Waitlist for new clients
Since 2011, I have enjoyed learning about/using trauma-informed approaches like EMDR.
I have provided clinical social work services in human service agencies, hospitals and outpatient clinics since 1986. To address the broad spectrum of populations and needs in these locations, I have received specialized training in a variety of therapeutic modalities. At the same time, I know that the most important factor is not technical expertise; unless the client feels safe and understood, therapy can't get started! I enjoy developing collaborative relationships with clients, and then selecting an approach tailored to meet their unique needs.
Since 2011, I have enjoyed learning about/using trauma-informed approaches like EMDR.
I have provided clinical social work services in human service agencies, hospitals and outpatient clinics since 1986. To address the broad spectrum of populations and needs in these locations, I have received specialized training in a variety of therapeutic modalities. At the same time, I know that the most important factor is not technical expertise; unless the client feels safe and understood, therapy can't get started! I enjoy developing collaborative relationships with clients, and then selecting an approach tailored to meet their unique needs.
My approach is trauma-informed, utilizing CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma that affects your day-to-day life? In my practice, I start by understanding where you are now and the unique challenges you are facing. Together, we will create a personalized plan to help you move forward in the direction you want to go. I am committed to offering a safe and supportive environment, with both in-person and virtual appointments available on a confidential platform. Whether you're seeking to overcome obstacles, build coping skills, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to support you every step of the way.
My approach is trauma-informed, utilizing CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma that affects your day-to-day life? In my practice, I start by understanding where you are now and the unique challenges you are facing. Together, we will create a personalized plan to help you move forward in the direction you want to go. I am committed to offering a safe and supportive environment, with both in-person and virtual appointments available on a confidential platform. Whether you're seeking to overcome obstacles, build coping skills, or simply need someone to talk to, I am here to support you every step of the way.
Anne K. Wiser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
The main treatment approaches I use are: EMDR and Brainspotting.
With compassion and in a non-judging atmosphere, I partner with you to help you develop your personal wisdom and achieve the changes you aspire to. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I conducted brain research. My knowledge of how the brain functions guides my psychotherapy practice. I have 14 years experience helping people with a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, unstable mood, low self-esteem, trauma & abuse including PTSD.
The main treatment approaches I use are: EMDR and Brainspotting.
With compassion and in a non-judging atmosphere, I partner with you to help you develop your personal wisdom and achieve the changes you aspire to. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I conducted brain research. My knowledge of how the brain functions guides my psychotherapy practice. I have 14 years experience helping people with a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, unstable mood, low self-esteem, trauma & abuse including PTSD.
Adina Joy Levitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
I use an integrated approach: Somatic, Experiential, EMDR, ACT, & Solution-Focused.
Are you curious about the mind-body connection? In addition to talk therapy, we may use a variety of somatic tools to release chronic internal barriers, explore your life experiences, & to regulate your nervous system. Some of these include: mindfulness, grounding, breathwork, guided imagery, dance/movement & exploring where you hold stress in your body.
I use an integrated approach: Somatic, Experiential, EMDR, ACT, & Solution-Focused.
Are you curious about the mind-body connection? In addition to talk therapy, we may use a variety of somatic tools to release chronic internal barriers, explore your life experiences, & to regulate your nervous system. Some of these include: mindfulness, grounding, breathwork, guided imagery, dance/movement & exploring where you hold stress in your body.
Interplay Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Online Only
We offer expertise in experiential methods (play, art, sandtray) and EMDR with a Cognitive-Behavioral foundation.
Susan G Schmitz, MSW, LISW and Sarah K Anderson, MSW, LISW work with adults, adolescents and some older elementary school-aged children along with their families. Common presenting issues include anxiety, depression, trauma, difficulty with life transitions such as divorce, grief and loss, and relationship issues. We employ a strengths-based approach within a non-judgmental, eclectic framework. We will work together to tailor treatment plans to your needs. Each of us offers a unique, yet similar approach, having been trained a generation apart, but within the same theories and modalities.
We offer expertise in experiential methods (play, art, sandtray) and EMDR with a Cognitive-Behavioral foundation.
Susan G Schmitz, MSW, LISW and Sarah K Anderson, MSW, LISW work with adults, adolescents and some older elementary school-aged children along with their families. Common presenting issues include anxiety, depression, trauma, difficulty with life transitions such as divorce, grief and loss, and relationship issues. We employ a strengths-based approach within a non-judgmental, eclectic framework. We will work together to tailor treatment plans to your needs. Each of us offers a unique, yet similar approach, having been trained a generation apart, but within the same theories and modalities.
Matthew Reinert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
I am also certified in EMDR and regularly use this when appropriate.
I am currently accepting new clients for both in-person and telehealth therapy. My practice utilizes a person-centered and strength-based approach to understand and address each client's unique goals for therapy. I view the client as the expert on their own situation and value a collaborative approach to treatment that focuses on honoring the individual and their self-determination.
I am also certified in EMDR and regularly use this when appropriate.
I am currently accepting new clients for both in-person and telehealth therapy. My practice utilizes a person-centered and strength-based approach to understand and address each client's unique goals for therapy. I view the client as the expert on their own situation and value a collaborative approach to treatment that focuses on honoring the individual and their self-determination.
I have extensive training in treating trauma, including EMDR levels I and II.
As your partner in the counseling journey, I provide a compassionate and supportive healing environment to assist you in facing your life challenges. I work primarily with adults, specializing in personal and career transitions, relationship distress, anxiety, and recovery from traumatic events. I draw from 18 years of evidence-based practice to personalize an approach that meets your unique needs. Working from a wholistic perspective incorporating biological, relational, emotional, and spiritual elements, my goal is to empower you to create greater satisfaction and happiness in your life and relationships.
I have extensive training in treating trauma, including EMDR levels I and II.
As your partner in the counseling journey, I provide a compassionate and supportive healing environment to assist you in facing your life challenges. I work primarily with adults, specializing in personal and career transitions, relationship distress, anxiety, and recovery from traumatic events. I draw from 18 years of evidence-based practice to personalize an approach that meets your unique needs. Working from a wholistic perspective incorporating biological, relational, emotional, and spiritual elements, my goal is to empower you to create greater satisfaction and happiness in your life and relationships.
Meet Our EMDR Therapists
Lindsey Piper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR therapy, brainspotting, DBT, and use other modalities including mindfulness.
While I am on a waitlist for new clients, I have immediate openings for gender affirming care letters. I can offer this service free of charge for those who can't afford it. Poet Anne Sexton wrote, "That the worst of anyone Can be, finally, An accident of hope." If you're here, you probably feel at your worst. Maybe a traumatic event has left you feeling broken and lost. Perhaps what you've been doing to cope just isn't working anymore, or is doing more harm than good. Whatever your reasons, I'm glad you're thinking about therapy. This process can be scary and takes hard work, and I welcome anyone courageous enough to seek out hope.
I am trained in EMDR therapy, brainspotting, DBT, and use other modalities including mindfulness.
While I am on a waitlist for new clients, I have immediate openings for gender affirming care letters. I can offer this service free of charge for those who can't afford it. Poet Anne Sexton wrote, "That the worst of anyone Can be, finally, An accident of hope." If you're here, you probably feel at your worst. Maybe a traumatic event has left you feeling broken and lost. Perhaps what you've been doing to cope just isn't working anymore, or is doing more harm than good. Whatever your reasons, I'm glad you're thinking about therapy. This process can be scary and takes hard work, and I welcome anyone courageous enough to seek out hope.
I specialize in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, the Developmental Model of relationships therapy, and EMDR.
It’s a new year! Time to work on creating the life you have always wanted. If you are feeling unfulfilled because it seems like your life is passing you by, or you are tired of being in pain, and you feel stuck in the same old, same old - it may be time to try something different. Perhaps your anxiety, or depression, or anger is getting the best of you. How do you get out of your own way and live the life you have dreamed of? Working together in individually or in workshops, the goal is to help you create more connectedness, improve resilience, and experience more joy.
I specialize in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, the Developmental Model of relationships therapy, and EMDR.
It’s a new year! Time to work on creating the life you have always wanted. If you are feeling unfulfilled because it seems like your life is passing you by, or you are tired of being in pain, and you feel stuck in the same old, same old - it may be time to try something different. Perhaps your anxiety, or depression, or anger is getting the best of you. How do you get out of your own way and live the life you have dreamed of? Working together in individually or in workshops, the goal is to help you create more connectedness, improve resilience, and experience more joy.
I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Brainspotting, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and have successfully used these approaches to help teens, adults and families suffering from depression, anxiety, abuse, conflict and PTSD.
Stress and trauma come in many forms (family conflict, abuse, accidents, violence, difficult life transitions) and can affect us via anger issues, problems sleeping, lack of concentration and irritability. I utilize relational, brain-body and mindfulness based approaches when working with clients.
I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Brainspotting, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and have successfully used these approaches to help teens, adults and families suffering from depression, anxiety, abuse, conflict and PTSD.
Stress and trauma come in many forms (family conflict, abuse, accidents, violence, difficult life transitions) and can affect us via anger issues, problems sleeping, lack of concentration and irritability. I utilize relational, brain-body and mindfulness based approaches when working with clients.
I am currently accepting clients for both EMDR and general therapy.
If you are struggling after experiencing a traumatic event, you are far from alone. In a given year, more than twelve million Americans have PTSD. Through my offering of EMDR therapy, the gold-standard, evidence-based treatment for PTSD, I can help you to get your life back on track.
I am currently accepting clients for both EMDR and general therapy.
If you are struggling after experiencing a traumatic event, you are far from alone. In a given year, more than twelve million Americans have PTSD. Through my offering of EMDR therapy, the gold-standard, evidence-based treatment for PTSD, I can help you to get your life back on track.
Richelle Derfus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, CCTP
Verified Verified
North Liberty, IA 52317
I am certified in EMDR, which is a first line treatment for helping people to overcome trauma.
I offer a warm, welcoming environment where I focus on the clients' strengths, not deficits, and work with my client to help them achieve their life's goals.
I am certified in EMDR, which is a first line treatment for helping people to overcome trauma.
I offer a warm, welcoming environment where I focus on the clients' strengths, not deficits, and work with my client to help them achieve their life's goals.
I am trained in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing practices, and the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy developed by Dr.
I work with couples and individuals to create secure functioning relationships throughout their lives. Where collaboration, cooperation, and communication are enhanced. My mission is to create a space of unconditional acceptance with compassion and mindfulness as central components of my practice. I work with couples and individuals seeking premarital support, communication issues, intimacy, sex, parenting, infertility, betrayal, remarriage, step-parenting, finances, breaking up, etc. I'm committed to helping you and/or your partner to increase your interconnectedness, enhancing your ability to create the life you want.
I am trained in EMDR, Somatic Experiencing practices, and the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy developed by Dr.
I work with couples and individuals to create secure functioning relationships throughout their lives. Where collaboration, cooperation, and communication are enhanced. My mission is to create a space of unconditional acceptance with compassion and mindfulness as central components of my practice. I work with couples and individuals seeking premarital support, communication issues, intimacy, sex, parenting, infertility, betrayal, remarriage, step-parenting, finances, breaking up, etc. I'm committed to helping you and/or your partner to increase your interconnectedness, enhancing your ability to create the life you want.
I adjust my therapy approach to the needs of each unique client, but I generally draw from CBT, Mindfulness, IFS and EMDR.
I help clients identify goals for therapy, and work toward those goals in a non-judgmental, supportive manner, referring to outside resources where appropriate. For some clients, I incorporate EMDR therapy into my sessions. EMDR therapy can help clients heal emotionally from painful life experiences.
I adjust my therapy approach to the needs of each unique client, but I generally draw from CBT, Mindfulness, IFS and EMDR.
I help clients identify goals for therapy, and work toward those goals in a non-judgmental, supportive manner, referring to outside resources where appropriate. For some clients, I incorporate EMDR therapy into my sessions. EMDR therapy can help clients heal emotionally from painful life experiences.
In my sessions I incorporate art therapy, breath work, EMDR, hypnosis/hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and movement techniques.
Art therapy is a powerful form of communication that centers on the art making process, and the verbal exploration of what is created. No prior art experience is needed. Drawing on trauma research and my trainings, I work with clients to process past trauma, support the development of mind-body awareness, and the deepening of coping and wellness strategies.
In my sessions I incorporate art therapy, breath work, EMDR, hypnosis/hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and movement techniques.
Art therapy is a powerful form of communication that centers on the art making process, and the verbal exploration of what is created. No prior art experience is needed. Drawing on trauma research and my trainings, I work with clients to process past trauma, support the development of mind-body awareness, and the deepening of coping and wellness strategies.
Matt Cohen, Ph.D, LISW, Counseling And Coaching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
He is also trained in trauma counseling/ EMDR techniques and couples counseling (Level I Gottman).
Matt Cohen, Ph.D. is an LISW (Licensed independent Social Worker, The University of Kansas '94) and is the EAP onsite counselor for Raytheon Technology's (RTX) Rockwell-Collins site in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He also counsels couples and individuals 18 years and older in his private counseling practice in Iowa City. He has given national seminars about working with difficult people in the workplace, and is a licensed workplace mediator and trains others in mediation. He has traveled nationally and internationally to present and conduct workshops using movement, storytelling, and play as a technique to build community and spontaneity.
He is also trained in trauma counseling/ EMDR techniques and couples counseling (Level I Gottman).
Matt Cohen, Ph.D. is an LISW (Licensed independent Social Worker, The University of Kansas '94) and is the EAP onsite counselor for Raytheon Technology's (RTX) Rockwell-Collins site in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He also counsels couples and individuals 18 years and older in his private counseling practice in Iowa City. He has given national seminars about working with difficult people in the workplace, and is a licensed workplace mediator and trains others in mediation. He has traveled nationally and internationally to present and conduct workshops using movement, storytelling, and play as a technique to build community and spontaneity.
See more therapy options for Johnson County
EMDR Therapists
Who is EMDR for?
EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.
Why do people need EMDR?
People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.
What problems does EMDR treat?
First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.
What happens in EMDR therapy?
First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.