Question 1

When should I see a therapist?

Accepted Answer

Anxiety and depression are two of the most common reasons people go to a therapist. When these begin interfering with your functional life—work, relationships, school, physical health—it can be a sign to seek help. However, clients come to therapy for all kinds of other reasons: to gain an outside perspective on a difficult life situation or to develop coping skills—to improve their communication with significant others or deal with stress better. Clients may also come to therapy to unravel issues stemming from childhood or to deepen their inner growth. If you’re wondering whether therapy could help you, it’s worth exploring. Talking with a therapist can give you clarity and support, even if you’re not sure you “need” it.

Question 2

What is  EMDR?

Accepted Answer

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured therapy designed to help clients heal from traumatic experiences. While it’s particularly effective for PTSD, anxiety, and other trauma-related conditions (particularly complex trauma), EMDR can help with depression, phobias, grief, childhood trauma, and addiction. 
EMDR helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they are less distressing. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds) while the client recalls traumatic events. This process engages the deeper parts of the brain, unreachable by talk therapy—helping the brain "unstick" from the trauma and integrate memories in a healthier way.
Three decades of research show that EMDR is highly effective. Many people experience relief faster than with traditional talk therapy, often within a few sessions, though the number of sessions varies depending on the individual. Clients commonly report that, after experiencing EMDR, the traumatic memories lose their “potency” and they gain a broader perspective of the traumatic events—making their trauma something they “can live with” rather than something that overwhelms them and runs their lives.

Question 3

What are the signs of PTSD?

Accepted Answer

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. The symptoms generally fall into four main categories:

1. Intrusive Thoughts (Re-experiencing Symptoms)
∙ Unwanted, distressing memories of the trauma
∙ Nightmares or recurring bad dreams
∙ Flashbacks (feeling like the trauma is happening again)
∙ Intense emotional or physical reactions to reminders of the trauma

2. Avoidance
∙ Avoiding people, places, or situations that remind you of the trauma
∙ Avoiding talking or thinking about the traumatic event
∙ Emotional numbness or feeling disconnected from others
∙ Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed

3. Negative Changes in Mood & Thinking
∙ Persistent negative thoughts about yourself, others, or the world
∙ Guilt, shame, or self-blame about the trauma
∙ Feeling emotionally detached or unable to feel positive emotions
∙ Trouble remembering parts of the traumatic event

4. Hyperarousal & Reactivity (Feeling "On Edge")
∙ Being easily startled or feeling constantly on guard
∙ Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
∙ Irritability, anger outbursts, or aggressive behavior
∙ Difficulty concentrating
∙ Reckless or self-destructive behaviors

Other Possible Symptoms
∙ Physical symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or stomach issues
∙ Increased anxiety or panic attacks
∙ Depression or hopelessness

PTSD symptoms can vary in severity and may appear soon after a traumatic event or even months or years later. If these symptoms are interfering with daily life, relationships, or overall well-being, it’s important to seek professional help. Therapy, particularly trauma-focused approaches like EMDR, can be very effective in treating PTSD.

Question 4

How much do you charge?

Accepted Answer

My rate is $120 per hour, for talk therapy and EMDR. I do not accept insurance.

John Dullaghan, Psychotherapist

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