What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a research-backed therapy that helps people heal from painful memories and experiences. Using guided eye movements or other bilateral stimulation, EMDR reduces the emotional intensity of past and present events—and the ways they impact the future—creating space for relief, healing, and growth.
As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I’m passionate about helping people recognize and heal from trauma while guiding them toward lasting change.
Trauma isn’t always a single dramatic event—it can be any experience that overwhelms your ability to cope and leaves you feeling helpless, stuck, or disconnected. It may be physical, emotional, or even spiritual. Many people don’t realize their struggles stem from trauma, but its effects can surface as anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges. Recognizing and working through these wounds can be an empowering step toward healing.
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My Approach: EMDR + IFS
In my work, I integrate EMDR with Internal Family Systems (IFS) to support deeper healing. EMDR helps the brain reprocess painful memories so they lose their intensity, while IFS focuses on understanding the different “parts” of ourselves—such as the protective parts that keep us safe or the wounded parts carrying pain.
Together, these approaches create a gentle and effective path: EMDR helps process the memory, while IFS ensures every part of you feels heard, respected, and supported along the way. This combination allows healing to feel safer, more compassionate, and more complete.
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Education and Years In Practice:
In Practice for 9 years
Attended University of Nebraska at Omaha, Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, 2016
Creighton University, Bachelor's in Psychology, 2013
Additional Credentials:
NBCC National Certified Counselor 2017
EMDR International Association Certified Therapist 2023
EMDRIA Consultant In Training 2025
Licensed in South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin
Amanda Van Kalsbeek
MS LPC-MH NCC QMHP LIMHP LMHC