FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy & Support

These are some of the questions women often ask when thinking about therapy. If you have other questions, please get in touch. I am here to support you.

How Do I Choose a Therapist Who Specializes in Midlife Transitions and Perimenopause Support??

When looking for a therapist for midlife or perimenopause support, begin by considering your needs and what you want from therapy. Here are some tips to help you:

  • Look for a therapist who has experience supporting women through life changes. Someone who regularly helps women with identity shifts, new roles, physical changes, and emotional challenges can share helpful insights and tools.

  • Ask how they work. Midlife transitions often respond well to a holistic approach that blends talk therapy, mind-body awareness, and supportive guidance, rather than focusing solely on symptoms.

  • Check whether they have specialized training or focus areas. Some therapists have extra experience in women’s health, hormone-related emotional changes, and connecting body and mind in their work.

  • Connection and safety are important. When you meet a therapist, you should feel seen and understood. Trust your intuition.

  • Consider practical details too. Do you prefer in-person or online sessions? Is flexible scheduling more important than finding a space that respects your cultural background and experiences?

At Jennifer Villena Therapy, I support women in midlife with holistic, trauma-informed care thatrespectrs the emotional, cultural, and life changes that come with this stage.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a proven therapy for trauma and PTSD. When choosing an EMDR therapist, keep these points in mind:

  • Licensure and certification: A therapist should be certified or trained in EMDR through a recognized training program. Certification shows that the therapist was properly trained, put in the hours, and has experience in EMDR.  

  • Find someone with experience in trauma work. Not all therapists use EMDR the same way. Choose a therapist who uses a trauma-informed approach, supports your pace and safety, and does not rush you. It’s important that your therapist is trained in stabilization methods.

  • Before starting EMDR, they should help you build skills for emotional regulation and grounding. This helps make the process safer and more effective.

  • A good therapist will explain how EMDR works, discuss what to expect, and answer any questions you have about the process.

  • Comfort and trust matter. EMDR can feel vulnerable, so it is important to choose someone you feel safe and comfortable with.

    At Jennifer Villena Therapy, I use EMDR along with mindfulness, talk therapy, and a holistic approach to help women work through trauma, anxiety, and past experiences in a supportive and collaborative way.

What Should I Look For When Selecting a Therapist Experienced in EMDR for Trauma and PTSD?

Yes, therapists in Walnut Creek and the East Bay area offer both in-person and online therapy for people dealing with anxiety, depression, and related concerns.

Why are both options helpful?

  • In-person meetings can help some clients feel more connected and understood. sions increase access, flexibility, and comfort for those who prefer working from home.

  • Many therapists offer a mix of in-person and online sessions, so you can choose what works best for you each week.

When searching for a therapist, think about the following:

  • Do they clearly offer both in-person and online sessions? How do they handle privacy and technology for online sessions? What approaches do they use for anxiety and depression (such as mind-body, trauma-informed, or integrative methods etc.)

At Jennifer Villena Therapy, I offer in-person sessions in Pleasant Hill and Walnut Creek, and online sessions for clients throughout Contra Costa County and the East Bay. This flexibility helps meet different needs and schedules.

Are There Therapists in Walnut Creek Who Offer Both In-Person and Online Sessions for Anxiety and Depression?

Still Unsure? How to Reach Out or Schedule a Consultation

If you are considering starting therapy, I invite you to reach out for a short call. I will listen to your needs and answer your questions, so you can feel confident and supported as you decide if therapy is right for you.

Visit my Contact page or call to set up a consultation. I am here to help you find care that fits your life and supports your well-being.