What Therapy Approaches Does Stephanie LPC Use?
Updated
Stephanie LPC, a licensed professional counselor and board-approved supervisor in Central Texas, uses evidence-based therapies including MCBT (mindfulness-based cognitive therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). These approaches are applied to address depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship conflicts, and life transitions. If you're looking for a therapist who combines structured, research-backed methods with compassionate support and practical skill-building, this page explains what each approach involves and when it might be a fit.
The Two Core Approaches
MCBT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy)
MCBT blends mindfulness practices with cognitive therapy. The core idea is that by paying attention to the present moment without judgment, you can notice thought patterns that fuel depression or anxiety — and then work with them rather than being pulled along by them.
What a session might involve:
- Guided mindfulness exercises (breath awareness, body scans)
- Identifying automatic thoughts and cognitive distortions
- Practicing how to observe thoughts without immediately reacting to them
- Building skills you can use between sessions
Who it tends to suit: People dealing with recurring depression, generalized anxiety, or stress that feels driven by looping thought patterns. It's often helpful for those who want concrete tools they can practice on their own.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
EMDR is a structured therapy primarily used for trauma and PTSD. It uses bilateral stimulation — typically guided eye movements, though tapping or sounds may also be used — while you briefly focus on a distressing memory. The goal is to help the brain reprocess the memory so it becomes less emotionally charged.
What a session might involve:
- Identifying a specific target memory or negative belief
- Short sets of bilateral stimulation while holding the memory in mind
- Brief check-ins between sets about what comes up
- Gradually installing a more adaptive, positive belief
Who it tends to suit: People with PTSD, disturbing memories, or trauma-related symptoms. EMDR is recognized as an evidence-based treatment for trauma, though it's not the right fit for every situation — a therapist will assess whether it's appropriate.
How These Approaches Are Combined
Stephanie's practice describes using these methods together with compassionate support and practical skills. In practice, that can mean:
| Element | What it looks like |
|---|---|
| Evidence-based methods | MCBT and EMDR as structured frameworks |
| Emotional support | A caring, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship |
| Practical skills | Tools for managing anxiety, depression, and relationships |
| Communication style | Warm, with a stated touch of dark humor |
The dark humor detail is worth noting — it suggests a therapist who doesn't treat every session as solemn. For some clients, that relatability makes it easier to open up. For others, it may not match their preference. It's reasonable to ask about a therapist's style during an initial consultation.
What These Approaches Are Used For
According to the practice, Stephanie specializes in:
- Depression — MCBT is particularly relevant here
- Anxiety — MCBT and cognitive work
- PTSD — EMDR is the primary approach
- Relationship conflicts — often addressed through talk-based work alongside the above
- Life transitions — support and skills for major changes
If your concern falls outside these areas, it's worth asking directly whether the practice is a good fit or whether a referral makes more sense.
Practical Considerations Before You Choose
A few things to keep in mind when evaluating whether these approaches suit you:
- EMDR requires specific training. Not every therapist offers it. Stephanie's practice lists it, which means she has the relevant training.
- MCBT is skills-heavy. Expect homework or between-session practice. If you want a purely talk-based experience, this may feel structured.
- Approaches can be combined. You don't necessarily choose one or the other — a therapist may blend them based on your needs.
- Fit matters as much as method. The therapeutic relationship predicts outcomes alongside technique. A brief consultation call can help you gauge whether the style works for you.
How to Learn More or Get Started
The practice offers both in-person and telehealth appointments for clients in the Georgetown, TX area. You can reach out by text, email, or phone to schedule. The website also has a contact form where you can describe what you're looking for.
If you're specifically seeking EMDR or MCBT, it's reasonable to mention that when you reach out — it confirms availability and lets the therapist prepare.