Jana Grimes, LMHC

Hi, I'm Jana, an EMDR Therapist working in the beautiful town of Gig Harbor, WA.

I believe in the power of therapy to create deep, sustainable change. My approach is rooted in EMDR, Polyvagal Theory, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)—all backed by research and designed to help you move from anxiety and stress to living with greater clarity, connection, and confidence.

Right now, you might feel stuck—trapped in anxiety, overwhelm, or patterns that no longer serve you. Maybe past experiences still weigh you down, or you’re exhausted from trying to push through on your own. You may find yourself constantly putting others’ needs before your own, struggling with people-pleasing, or feeling disconnected from what you truly want. You don’t have to stay here.

With a strong commitment to evidence-based practices, I integrate neuroscience and somatic work to help you heal from trauma, regulate your nervous system, and build a more fulfilling life. My own personal experience with therapy has shown me just how transformative this work can be, and I bring that perspective into the care I provide.

If you’re ready to take the next step, email me directly at therapy@janagrimes.com or fill out the contact form below.

Jana Grimes Therapy

Who I Help & How I Work

I specialize in working with individuals 16+ navigating
trauma, anxiety, and nervous system dysregulation.
Whether you feel stuck in old patterns, overwhelmed by
stress, or disconnected from yourself, we will work
together to build resilience and lasting change in a way
that feels safe and empowering.

I also have a deep passion for integrating animals into
therapy and holistic well-being, recognizing the incredible
role that nature and connection play in healing. I am trained in EMDR and am currently working on my certification. I am also a trained ACT therapist along with a variety of other modalities including CBT, CETA, and Lifespan Integration.

A Little About Me

Outside of the therapy room, I love spending time with my
husband, two boys, and our dog. I’m an avid runner,
always training for my next full or half marathon. Being in
nature is where I feel most grounded—whether it’s hiking,
paddleboarding, or simply being near salt water.

Let’s Connect

If you're ready to explore what healing can look like for
you, I’d love to connect. Just hit the "Contact Me" button below.

CONTACT JANA

What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a research-backed, powerful therapy approach designed to help people heal from trauma, anxiety, and distressing life experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR works by targeting the way traumatic memories are stored in the brain, allowing you to process and release them in a safe and effective way.

Using bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements or tapping), EMDR helps your brain reprocess distressing memories so they no longer feel as overwhelming. This allows your nervous system to shift from a state of survival into a place of greater calm, clarity, and resilience.

EMDR is widely recognized as one of the most effective treatments for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and other emotional difficulties. Whether you’re feeling stuck in past experiences or struggling with present challenges, EMDR can help you move forward with more ease and confidence.

What is the Polyvagal Theory?

Polyvagal Theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, explains how our nervous system responds to stress, trauma, and connection. It helps us understand why we react the way we do—whether we feel calm and safe, anxious and on edge, or shut down and disconnected.

At its core, Polyvagal Theory focuses on the vagus nerve, which plays a key role in regulating our sense of safety and well-being. When we experience stress or trauma, our nervous system shifts into fight, flight, or freeze as a survival response. When we feel safe and supported, we can engage, connect, and thrive.

By working with the nervous system—through body-based regulation techniques, breathwork, movement, and mindful awareness—we can strengthen our ability to return to a place of calm, connection, and resilience.

Understanding and working with your nervous system is a key part of healing, and I integrate this approach into my therapy work to help clients feel more grounded, empowered, and at ease.

What is the ACT?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a mindfulness-based approach that helps individuals develop psychological flexibility—the ability to navigate life’s challenges while staying true to their values. ACT is built on six core processes, known as the Hexaflex:

Cognitive Defusion – Learning to detach from unhelpful thoughts.
Acceptance – Allowing emotions and experiences to exist without resistance.
Present Moment Awareness – Cultivating mindfulness and staying engaged in the now.
Self-as-Context – Recognizing that you are more than your thoughts and feelings.
Values – Identifying what truly matters to you.
Committed Action – Taking meaningful steps aligned with your values.

By integrating these principles, ACT helps individuals break free from avoidance and self-doubt, fostering a life of authenticity, resilience, and purpose.