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Our Approach

Empowerment Approach

We believe in an “Empowerment Approach” and that even though you may not realize it you have many strengths and skills within you that we build upon and use in reaching your goals. We want you to know that it’s okay, to not be okay. You deserve it and owe it to yourself to gain back control of your life and live to your fullest potential. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

CBT is type of model that combines cognitive therapy with behavior therapy by identifying faulty or distorted patterns of thinking, emotional responses, or behaviors responses. The goal is to substitute them with more positive patterns of thinking, emotional responses, and behaviors.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

TF-CBT is an evidence-based treatment for those impacted by trauma. It is a components-based treatment model that incorporates trauma-sensitive interventions with cognitive behavioral, family, and humanistic principles and techniques. TF-CBT has proved successful with those who have significant emotional problems (e.g., symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, fear, anxiety, or depression) related to traumatic life events. It can be used with those who have experienced a single trauma or multiple traumas in their lives.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy

DBT is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy. Dialectical behavioral therapy tries to identify and change negative thinking patterns and pushes for positive behavioral changes. It helps to teach you the skills to cope with and change unhealthy behaviors. You work to bring together 'acceptance and change' in your life.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing - EMDR 

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy treatment that was originally designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories (Shapiro, 1989a, 1989b). Shapiro’s (2001) Adaptive Information Processing model posits that EMDR therapy facilitates the accessing and processing of traumatic memories and other adverse life experience to bring these to an adaptive resolution. After successful treatment with EMDR therapy, affective distress is relieved, negative beliefs are reformulated, and physiological arousal is reduced. During EMDR therapy the client attends to emotionally disturbing material in brief sequential doses while simultaneously focusing on an external stimulus. Therapist directed lateral eye movements are the most commonly used external stimulus but a variety of other stimuli including hand-tapping and audio stimulation are often used (Shapiro, 1991).

Areas of Expertise

  • Depression                                  

  • Anxiety

  • Trauma

  • PTSD

  • Grief

  • Life Changes

  • Insomnia/sleep concerns

  • Self Esteem Concerns

  • Life and Adjustment Transitions

  • Relationship stress

  • Sports Performance 

  • Pregnancy, Pre/Postpartum concerns 

  • Career and School Stress

  • Test Anxiety

  • Chronic Pain

  • Sexual Abuse

  • Divorce

  • Online Therapy

  • EMDR

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Holly Essler, LCSW's Specialized Training

With over 11 years of experience in the mental health field, I have honed an eclectic approach to therapy that enables me to provide tailored treatment for individuals. I integrate a diverse range of techniques, including mindfulness and relaxation strategies, to enrich the therapeutic process

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To better serve individuals who have experienced trauma, PTSD, and associated challenges, I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). These specialized certifications demonstrate my commitment to utilizing research-supported interventions that have proven successful in promoting healing and resilience.

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Throughout my career, I have garnered valuable experience in diverse practice settings, including outpatient therapy, graduate assistance, treatment foster care case management, and medical social work. This breadth of experience has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the unique needs and circumstances of individuals from various backgrounds.

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In 2018, driven by my unwavering passion for assisting others, I established Empowering You Therapy LLC. This endeavor allows me to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment where individuals can explore their challenges, develop coping skills, and experience personal growth. I consider it a privilege to guide and empower my clients as they navigate their journey toward improved well-being and a fulfilling life.

My Approach
Holly Specializations
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