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my approach 

My clinical work centers on the treatment of eating and feeding disorders, along with co-occurring concerns such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. I bring extensive experience across higher levels of care - including residential, partial hospitalization (PHP), and intensive outpatient (IOP) settings - supporting clients with complex presentations, including PTSD and mood disorders.

At the core of my approach is helping clients cultivate a greater sense of ease, trust, and understanding within their mind and body. I prioritize a genuine, nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship, paired with evidence-based, trauma-informed care. As a person-centered therapist, I view each client as a whole person, not defined solely by a diagnosis or the challenges they are navigating

I draw from an integrative range of modalities to tailor treatment to each individual’s needs. Approaches I frequently incorporate include:

  • Internal Family Systems (IFS)

  • Narrative Therapy

  • Skills-based therapies (CBT, DBT, ACT)

  • Somatic and body-based practices

  • Mindful self-compassion

  • A social justice–informed framework

  • Expressive arts

  • EMDR

Please Note:

I am an anti-diet provider and adhere to the Health-at-Every-Size principles. I am also affirming of all sexual, gender, body and relationship identities, expressions and experiences. I work to make a safe space for all identities and bodies to move towards healing. I believe all bodies are good bodies.

I recognize that I have thin, white, abled-bodied and cisgender privilege and continue to educate myself on the unique lived-experiences of those who are not afforded the same privileges.

My in-person practice is based at Pacific Coast Therapy in Santa Cruz, with virtual services available to clients throughout California

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

 (#134013)

Copyright © 2022 Emily Behrs LMFT - All Rights Reserved.

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