EMDR
Therapy for Trauma
Process Trauma Using An Evidence-Based Approach
When memories keep playing on repeat, EMDR can help past experiences stay in the past.
Symptoms can show up as flashbacks, anxiety, avoidance, or a constant feeling that you're not safe—even when you are. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy that helps your brain reprocess traumatic memories, so they no longer control how you feel, think, or react. It's not about erasing the past. It's about changing how your brain holds it—so you can finally move forward.
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is recognized by the World Health Organization and the American Psychological Association as one of the most effective treatments for trauma and PTSD. EMDR is based on the idea that traumatic memories can get "stuck" in the brain in a raw, unprocessed form. When triggered, these memories can feel as intense as when they first happened. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation—like guided eye movements, tapping, or sound—to help the brain reprocess these memories in a way that reduces their emotional charge. This isn't about reliving the trauma or talking through every detail. EMDR allows your brain to do what it's naturally wired to do: heal.
How Does EMDR Therapy Work?
During an EMDR session, we work together to identify a specific memory or belief that's causing distress. While you focus on that memory, I'll guide you through bilateral stimulation—usually by tactile stimulation (also known as “buzzers”) or auditory tones. As your brain processes the memory, you may notice: shifts in how you think or feel about the memory or a decrease in the emotional intensity. There's no "right way" to experience EMDR. Your brain leads the process, and we move at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you.
What to Expect
EMDR follows an eight-phase protocol that helps ensure the process is safe, thorough, and effective. It starts with gathering history and building resources and ends with finding closure. Sessions typically last 60–90 minutes. You may notice changes right away, or the processing may continue between sessions. Both are normal.
After an EMDR session, your brain continues to process the work you've done. In the days that follow, you might notice feeling tired, emotionally tender, clarity, or old thoughts and feelings coming up. This is normal. Your brain is doing important work. During this time, we recommend drinking plenty of water, getting extra rest, journaling, and using grounding techniques discussed in session. EMDR is powerful work, but it's always done with your safety and pacing in mind.
Who is EMDR for?
EMDR is effective for a wide range of issues, including:
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety and panic attacks
Eating disorders and body image
Depression and grief
Phobias and fears
Chronic pain or illness
Performance anxiety or perfectionism
Childhood trauma or attachment wounds
Spiritual abuse or identity-based trauma
It's especially helpful for those who feel stuck in patterns they can't seem to break—or who've tried talk therapy but still feel weighed down by the past.
Let’s Take the First Step Together
You don't have to keep carrying what happened to you. EMDR offers a path to process the past and reclaim your sense of safety, peace, and control. Let's work together to help your brain heal—one memory at a time.