My Approach: EMDR + IFS
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based model of psychotherapy that helps individuals 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.
+
Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is an internal attachment model that helps you become more connected with yourself. We all have different aspects that shape who we are, and when trauma occurs, some can get stuck, holding onto pain and developing protective strategies. While these strategies may have been helpful at one time, they may interfere with your life now. Everyone has a place within themselves that is calm and present-focused. I help you become more aware of this and guide you toward your most regulated state, creating space for healing to occur.
=
IFS-informed EMDR combines the trauma-healing power of EMDR with the self-connection focus of IFS, making it especially effective for complex or attachment-related trauma. This compassionate, paced approach helps you process painful memories while strengthening awareness, safety, and self-guidance—supporting lasting relief and helping you feel more grounded, integrated, and empowered in your daily life.
__________________________________________________
Education and Experience:
Amanda is a licensed mental health counselor in her 10th year of practice. She holds a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Nebraska (2016) and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Creighton University (2013).
Advanced Training & Certification:
National Certified Counselor (NCC, NBCC)
Qualified Mental Health Provider (QMHP)
EMDRIA Certified EMDR Therapist
EMDRIA Consultant-In-Training
IFS-Informed EMDR Steps 1 & 2 Provider (Syzygy Institute)
Ongoing advanced training in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), IFS-informed EMDR, and somatic processing approaches.
Licensed in South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wisconsin
Amanda Van Kalsbeek
MS LPC-MH NCC QMHP LIMHP LMHC
