Our Approach
We believe in a dynamic and integrative therapeutic approach, combining evidence-based methods such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family System (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Relational Therapy with a developmental, relational, and culturally sensitive lens. We also incorporate somatic healing approaches, recognizing the profound connection between mind and body in the healing process. Our goal is to work collaboratively with you, addressing a range of issues including…
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Traumatic stress
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Coping with serious health conditions such as autoimmune diseases, infertility and cancer
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Depression and anxiety
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Shame and self-esteem issues
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Loss and grief
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Relationship difficulties
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Matrescence (the transition to motherhood)
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Adjustment challenges related to life transitions, such as young adulthood, divorce, new parenthood and stepparenting
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LGBQTIA+ issues
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Addiction and substance use disorders
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Job and academic stress
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ADHD and executive functioning difficulties
Complex Trauma Treatment
Complex trauma often stems from prolonged or repeated traumatic events, such as childhood abuse, chronic neglect, domestic violence, or ongoing exposure to stress. The effects of complex trauma can be profound and pervasive, impacting every aspect of an individual’s life.
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At Morningside Counseling and Assessment, we specialize in treating complex trauma by using a holistic approach, integrating evidence-based therapies like EMDR, IFS, CBT, ACT, and Psychodynamic Therapy, along with somatic healing techniques that help clients reconnect with their bodies and regulate their nervous systems. This multifaceted approach helps individuals understand how past trauma affects their current life, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.
EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that we utilize to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. EMDR is particularly effective for those suffering from complex trauma, PTSD, and other distressing life events. By using guided eye movements, EMDR helps to reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional impact and allowing for healthier cognitive integration. This technique can be a powerful tool in your healing journey, helping you move past trauma and achieve emotional well-being.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a compassionate, evidence-based approach that sees the mind as made up of distinct “parts,” each with its own feelings, perspectives, and roles. Many of these parts form in response to difficult or traumatic experiences, working hard to protect us — even when their strategies no longer help.
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In IFS therapy, we identify and understand these parts, from wounded and vulnerable aspects to protective or reactive ones, while strengthening connection to your core “Self” — the calm, curious, and compassionate center within you. From this grounded place, you can heal wounded parts, release burdens from the past, and restore inner balance.
Gentle and non-pathologizing, IFS is especially effective for complex trauma, helping clients process pain without overwhelming the nervous system, deepen self-compassion, and create lasting change.
Psychodynamic and Relational Therapy
Psychodynamic and relational therapy are foundational to our approach. These therapies focus on understanding the influence of past experiences and relationships on current behavior and emotional states. Psychodynamic therapy helps individuals uncover unconscious patterns and conflicts that may be contributing to their distress. Relational therapy emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic relationship as a space to explore and heal relational dynamics.
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By integrating psychodynamic and relational therapy, we help you gain deeper insights into how your past affects your present, allowing you to develop healthier relationships and a more authentic sense of self. This approach fosters self-awareness and emotional growth, empowering you to make meaningful changes in your life.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach that helps people understand and change negative thoughts and behaviors causing emotional distress. We use CBT to help with depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. In CBT, you learn to identify and challenge negative thoughts to reframe negative or distorted thinking, develop coping skills to manage stress and anxiety, and engage in activities that boost your mood and overall well-being.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
At Morningside Counseling and Assessment, we offer Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a powerful approach that helps individuals embrace their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty for them. ACT is rooted in mindfulness and behavioral therapy techniques, encouraging clients to accept their inner experiences while committing to actions that align with their values. This therapy empowers you to live a meaningful life by increasing psychological flexibility, helping you manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other challenges. Our goal is to guide you in creating a fulfilling life, even when faced with difficult emotions and thoughts.
Addiction Treatment
​Addiction can profoundly impact an individual’s life, affecting physical health, mental well-being, and relationships. At Morningside Counseling and Assessment, we offer comprehensive addiction treatment to help individuals achieve and maintain recovery. Our services include individual therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction and support long-term recovery, relapse prevention techniques to maintain sobriety, and family therapy to address the impact of addiction on family dynamics and foster healthier relationships.