Erin Wimmer
CSW
Even though stigma around being in therapy is tired and outdated, it still persists sometimes. Comments like “You’re weak if you go to therapy” or “You should just pray harder” can get into our heads and prevent us from actually getting help. The actual truth is that therapy can be one of the best decisions you can make for yourself. When you feel stuck, therapy can help give you insights you had never thought of before, that help you get unstuck. When you are bogged down by shame or critical thoughts, therapy can help you change your frame of mind to be kinder to yourself and decrease shame. When you could use additional support from someone who is impartial, therapy can provide exactly that. Ultimately, you are in charge of your life. Therapy provides you with tools that can help support you to live your best version of it.
TREATMENT APPROACH
In my schooling at the University of Northern Iowa, I learned an integrated approach to treating trauma. This includes elements of body-centered psychotherapies, mindfulness, sensorimotor psychotherapy, and somatic experiencing therapy. I also use a healing-centered, holistic approach that includes self-compassion, authenticity, accessing intuition, and respecting self-determination.
SPECIALITIES
-
Trans+ and gender diverse/nonbinary folx
-
All members of the LGBTQIA+ community
-
Faith exploration and transition
-
Emerging adulthood
-
Trauma
-
Grief
-
Anxiety
AGE OF SPECIALITY
-
Adolescents
-
Young Adult
-
Adults
TYPES OF THERAPY
Somatic Experiencing and Polyvagal Theory (body based modalities), elements of EMDR and parts work (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Informed and Compassion Focused
"There’s magic in being seen by people who understand — it gives you permission to keep going. "
- Alok Vaid-Menon
KNOW YOUR THERAPIST
WHAT DID YOU GET YOUR DEGREE(S) IN AND WHERE FROM?
Bachelor of Arts in French from Utah State University, Master of Social Work from University of Northern Iowa
SUMMARY OF PROFESSIONAL HISTORY
I spent nine years working at Youth and Shelter Services, a non-profit agency in central Iowa. Different aspects of my work included: connecting K-8 students with mentors and other resources; teaching sex ed to hundreds of 7th and 8th graders in two counties, and creating and implementing a workshop for LGBTQIA+ teenagers in the community that would help them connect, access resources, and learn important life skills.
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO BECOME A THERAPIST?
My best friend, who is a licensed psychologist, said to me, “Have you ever thought of becoming a therapist? You would be really good at it.” That got my wheels turning. Because she knows me so well, she suggested social work. I applied to grad school and my passion for the work developed right in front of my eyes.
WHATS YOUR THERAPEUTIC APPROACH?
In my schooling at the University of Northern Iowa, I learned an integrated approach to treating trauma. This includes elements of body-centered psychotherapies, mindfulness, sensorimotor psychotherapy, and somatic experiencing therapy. I also use a healing-centered, holistic approach that includes self-compassion, authenticity, intuition, and self-determination.
WHAT KIND OF HOMEWORK OR ASSIGNMENTS DO YOU GIVE CLIENTS?
We will work together to identify the goals you want to accomplish, and then we will create concrete steps to accomplish your goals. In addition to this, I have learned something from my own life: Life will provide the lessons. Your homework is to pay attention.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY FIRST SESSION WITH YOU?
Therapy is a safe space. The more vulnerable you can be during your time with me, the deeper you can move into learning, experiencing important moments of insight, and creating real change. Come to your first session ready to feel seen, heard, understood, and valued.