Annette Morales

EMDR

I’m trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a therapy that helps the brain recover from overwhelming or “stuck” experiences. Using bilateral stimulation—such as eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones—EMDR activates the brain’s natural processing system, similar to what happens during REM sleep. EMDR can support people who’ve experienced trauma, as well as those navigating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, disturbing memories, or early life experiences that continue to affect daily life. When something intense happens, the brain may store the memory in a raw, unprocessed form. EMDR helps reprocess these memories safely, reduce emotional intensity, and shift old beliefs into more supportive ones. It’s like giving the brain a chance to finally “digest” what was too much at the time. People often notice feeling calmer and less triggered, sleeping better, building confidence and self‑compassion, and finding relief from long‑held patterns or beliefs. Before we begin processing, we focus on creating a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship. We also work on grounding/anchoring skills and emotional regulation tools, working at a pace that feels safe and steady. EMDR is flexible and collaborative—designed to adapt to your needs, not the other way around.

Motivational Interviewing

I’m trained in Motivational Interviewing (MI), a collaborative approach that recognizes therapy as a partnership. We explore your thoughts and feelings about change together, drawing out your own ideas, values, and motivations rather than prescribing solutions. MI is grounded in the belief that you already carry the strengths and abilities needed for change. Our work helps bring those into your awareness so that any shifts you make feel authentic, self‑driven, and achievable.

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I’m trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and use it in a collaborative, strengths‑based way to help clients understand how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence one another. Together, we identify unhelpful patterns and practice new skills that support meaningful, sustainable change. I integrate CBT tools at a pace that feels safe and culturally attuned, blending them with trauma‑informed care to create practical, personalized support that meets each client where they are.

Trauma Informed Care

I practice from a trauma‑informed lens, prioritizing safety, choice, and collaboration in every session. This approach recognizes how past experiences shape the nervous system and centers empowerment, cultural humility, and pacing that feels manageable. My goal is to create a space where you feel supported, respected, and in control as we work toward healing.