
EMDR Therapy
What is EMDR Therapy?
If you’ve experienced trauma, anxiety, or distressing memories that just won’t go away, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to keep carrying that weight. EMDR therapy is a powerful, research-backed approach that helps people heal from emotional wounds that talking alone sometimes can’t reach.
​
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It’s a unique type of therapy that helps your brain reprocess painful memories so they lose their emotional charge. In other words, EMDR doesn’t erase what happened—but it helps your brain store the memory in a healthier way, so it no longer feels overwhelming or triggering.
​
During a session, your therapist will guide you to briefly focus on a specific memory while using bilateral stimulation—this might be eye movements, tapping, or sounds that go back and forth. This process helps your brain "digest" the memory, much like how it processes information during REM sleep.
​
What can EMDR treat?
EMDR is most commonly known for helping people recover from trauma and PTSD, but it's also effective for:
-
Anxiety and panic attacks
-
Grief and loss
-
Phobias
-
Childhood abuse or neglect
-
Disturbing memories
-
Low self-esteem
-
Performance anxiety
​
What Does EMDR Feel Like?
People often describe EMDR as intense but empowering. You stay fully awake and in control the entire time, and your therapist creates a safe space to guide you through the process at your own pace. After EMDR, many clients say they can finally think about a memory without feeling the emotional pain attached to it.
Is EMDR Right for Me?
EMDR might be a good fit if you're feeling stuck—if you've tried to "just move on" or "talk it out" and nothing has worked. It’s especially helpful for people who know what’s bothering them, but feel like their mind and body are still reacting to it.
​
If you're curious about EMDR or wondering whether it's right for you or your child, schedule a consultation here!
​
You can learn more about EMDR from the EMDR International Association.