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EMDR Therapy for Trauma, Anxiety, Depression and Overwhelm

You might feel stuck in patterns you can't think your way out of. Maybe certain memories, anxiety, or triggers keep showing up no matter how much you try to move on. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy that is rooted in the idea that the brain naturally heals, but certain traumas, memories and negative beliefs can block that process. EMDR helps facilitate the brain in processing "stuck" materials that are triggering you in some way. I have worked with many clients who have a history of complex trauma, attachment wounds and nervous system dysregulation. Often times, a client may have a disturbing memory from earlier years that they try to "just forget about" and yet it continues to impact them, until we address and process it using EMDR therapy.

The process of EMDR uses bilateral stimulation in the form of eye movements, Thera-Tappers, and other body based bilateral movements that help the client reprocess "stuck" or "tangled" traumatic materials, memories, emotions, sensation.  This process actually helps clients move from the amygdala (the emotional center of the brain) to the prefrontal cortex (the logical center of the brain). I provide EMDR therapy in a grounded, collaborative way that helps clients move towards resolution
 

Issues EMDR Can Help

Anxiety

Panic attack symptoms

Grief and loss

Phobias

Negative beliefs about yourself (like “I’m not safe” or “I’m not enough” or "I'm unlovable")
Memories such as:
shame memories in depression
bullying memories in social anxiety
body related trauma
medical trauma in chronic illness

 

Do I have to talk in detail about my trauma?
 

Not necessarily. One of the benefits of EMDR is that you do not need to describe every detail of what happened. We focus on what your nervous system is holding, not just telling the full story. 
 

What does an EMDR session feel like?
 

Everyone experiences EMDR a little differently. Many people notice that memories become less intense over time, or that they feel more distant and less emotionally activating. During sessions, we may pause frequently to make sure you feel grounded and safe.

 

How does EMDR actually work?
 

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements, tapping, or tones) while you briefly focus on a memory. This helps the brain reprocess the experience so it can be stored in a more adaptive way, rather than remaining “stuck.” Some ways that I incorporate bilateral stimulation in sessions might be through the use of TheraTapper hand held devices, self-administered tapping, movement.
 

Will EMDR make me feel worse?
 

Processing can sometimes bring up emotions or body sensations temporarily, which is why EMDR is done carefully and at a pace that supports your regulation. The goal is not overwhelm—it is integration and full resolution.
 

How long does EMDR take?
 

It depends on the person and the complexity of the trauma. Some issues may resolve in a few sessions, while more complex trauma may take longer. We will always move at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you.
 

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Is EMDR evidence-based?
 

Yes. EMDR is an evidence-based therapy recommended by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), The US Department of veteran Affairs,  and the American Psychological Association (APA) for trauma-related conditions.