EMDR Therapy

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful, evidence-based therapy that helps you process and heal from traumatic experiences, anxiety, phobias, and other distressing events, without requiring extensive verbal retelling. Originally developed for PTSD, decades of research have established it as one of the most effective trauma treatments available, now expanded to treat anxiety, depression, grief, performance anxiety, and more.

EMDR works by using bilateral stimulation (typically guided eye movements, but sometimes tapping or auditory tones) to activate the brain's natural information processing system. When a traumatic memory gets "stuck" in raw, unprocessed form, it retains the original emotions, sensations, and negative beliefs. This is why a memory from decades ago can still feel as vivid and distressing as the day it happened. EMDR helps your brain do what it naturally does during REM sleep: process and integrate the memory so it no longer triggers overwhelming responses.

The structured eight-phase protocol ensures thorough, safe treatment. Phases 1-2 focus on history, treatment planning, and preparation. Your therapist teaches grounding techniques and won't proceed until you feel ready. Phase 3 identifies the target memory, associated negative beliefs, and desired positive beliefs. Phases 4-7 are the active reprocessing: you focus on the memory while following bilateral stimulation, noticing whatever images, thoughts, or sensations arise as the memory loses its emotional charge. Phase 8 reevaluates at each subsequent session to ensure gains are holding.

Many clients experience significant relief in as few as three to six sessions for a single traumatic event. Complex trauma may require a longer course, but every session is purposeful and progress-oriented. We offer EMDR both in-person and through our secure telehealth platform, with virtual sessions using digital bilateral stimulation tools that are equally effective.