EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing)

What is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a proven form of therapy for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and distressing memories. It helps your brain process difficult experiences so they no longer feel as overwhelming or “stuck.”

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses a structured approach that combines bilateral stimulation—such as guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds—with focused attention on troubling memories. This process helps the brain “reprocess” those memories so they feel less intense and have less control over your daily life.

In simple terms: EMDR helps your brain heal from trauma in much the same way your body heals from a physical wound.

How EMDR Helps

EMDR can be highly effective for:

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • Childhood trauma or neglect

  • Anxiety and panic attacks

  • Depression

  • Grief and loss

  • Phobias and fears

  • Stressful life events (accidents, medical trauma, relationship breakups, etc.)

By reducing the emotional charge of painful memories, EMDR allows you to feel calmer, more grounded, and better able to move forward.

What Happens in an EMDR Session?

An EMDR therapy session usually includes:

  1. Identifying the memory or distressing event that feels stuck.

  2. Focusing briefly on the memory while using bilateral stimulation (like eye movements or tapping).

  3. Allowing your brain to process the memory in a new, less painful way.

  4. Replacing negative beliefs (like “I’m not safe” or “It was my fault”) with healthier, more supportive ones.

Over time, the memory is still there—but it no longer feels overwhelming or defines how you see yourself.

A woman performs a psychological or counseling test on a young woman by raising her hand to her face and touching her cheek or temple as part of the test, while the young woman sits calmly on a green couch.

Why Choose EMDR Therapy?

Many people prefer EMDR because:

  • It often works faster than traditional talk therapy.

  • You don’t have to share every detail of your trauma to experience relief.

  • It’s supported by extensive research as an effective treatment for trauma and PTSD.

  • It helps build long-term emotional resilience.

Is EMDR Right for you?

If you feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, or painful emotions, EMDR therapy may help you finally find relief. It is suitable for adults, teens, and even children with the right therapist guidance.

Ready to give EMDR a try?

All potential clients are offered one complimentary 15-minute phone or video consultation. This process allows you to ask any questions you may have, chat with me directly, and decide if the working relationship will be a good fit.