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Andrea Lahti

Andrea Lahti

LCMHC
21 years of experience
Virtual

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is the key to unlocking stuck neuropathways, or thoughts, that create blocks to mental health. It is an extensively researched, effective method proven to help people recover from trauma, physical pain and other distressing life experiences, including PTSD, anxiety, depression and panic disorders. My work focuses on balancing all aspects of health, which can include genetic testing to find generational propensities in mental health, if desired. I am also a Clinical Genetic Consultant, Level 2 certified with Apeiron Zoh. I use a systems approach to provide a mix of state-of-the-art technology, education, products and services to help clients understand the way their bodies and minds function so they can make lifestyle changes to maximize their full potential.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

I'm happy to share more about any modality I use, and I aim to get to know you and how I can best help you. Using a systems approach, I look at more than just your mental health - I encourage you to share all aspects of yourself, but you're always able to make the choice of not sharing what you're not comfortable sharing.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

One's mental health cannot be separated from any other aspect of life. Our physical, emotional, social, financial and other roles in life affect our mental health. I look at all aspects with openness and curiosity, with no judgement. Everyone makes the best decision they can with the knowledge and skills they have, and I just want to give you more tools and help you develop more skills so you can live the life you want to live. I do come from a perspective of healing from PTSD myself, and I think it's unfortunate that so many people think it's a lifetime diagnosis. You don't have to be a slave to the trauma in your past! You can overcome it! That doesn't mean you're not going to have difficult days anymore, but it means you choose how you want to live your life and you're not just reacting to reminders of your past anymore. I will not tell you what to do, but help you come to your own answers. You either have them and don't know it, or you haven't discovered and developed the skills you need yet. Different things work for different people, and you are the only expert on yourself. Sometimes growth requires facing and doing what challenges us, but there are usually options, and you get to choose what's right for you.

About Andrea Lahti

Identifies as

Licensed in

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

EMDR

EMDR is a psychotherapy modality that assists people to heal symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. It is widely assumed emotional pain requires a long time to heal. Repeated studies show EMDR helps the mind heal from trauma, much like the body recovering from physical injury, in a significantly shorter amount of time than talk therapy. I was first trained in EMDR in 2003, and have since been trained and certified in different facets of EMDR, such as Attachment-Focused, Intergenerational and Pain Management. It is my favorite modality, as it heals emotional scars quickly and efficiently.

Solution Focused Brief Treatment

Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) is a strength-based approach to psychotherapy that focuses on solution-building rather than problem-solving. Unlike other forms of psychotherapy that analyze present problems and past causes, SFBT concentrates on current circumstances and future hopes. I've used SFBT since I first started providing therapy.

Dialectical Behavior (DBT)

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Its main goals are to teach people how to live in the moment, develop healthy ways to cope with stress, regulate their emotions, and improve their relationships with others. I am certified in DBT, and have taught it in groups and to individuals. It blends well with EMDR as well.

Biofeedback

I have used several types of biofeedback, but the best one overall for online use is through HeartMath. This does involve the purchase of a phone monitor through their company, but it's a great way to help people access and experience the relaxation response. Of course there are many ways to use anxiety reduction techniques without biofeedback as well.