Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy designed to help people heal from trauma and other distressing life experiences. Rather than focusing only on talking through events, EMDR works with how memories are stored in the brain and body helping them become less overwhelming and more integrated.

 

How EMDR Works

 

When something distressing happens, the brain doesn’t always process the experience fully. Pieces of the memory (images, emotions, body sensations, and beliefs) can become “stuck,” leading to ongoing symptoms like anxiety, shame, intrusive thoughts, or feeling emotionally reactive. EMDR helps the brain reprocess these memories so they no longer feel as intense or disruptive. During sessions, we use bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds) while you briefly focus on aspects of a memory. This allows the brain to naturally move toward healing, often reducing emotional charge and shifting negative beliefs.

 

 

What EMDR Can Help With

 

EMDR is widely used to treat trauma, but it can also support:

• Eating disorders and body image distress

• Anxiety and panic

• Depression

• Substance use and relapse patterns

• Negative self-beliefs (e.g., “I’m not enough,” “I’m not safe”)

• Relationship and attachment wounds

• Stress from difficult or overwhelming life experiences

You don’t need to have experienced a single major traumatic event, EMDR is effective for both big “T” trauma and more subtle, cumulative experiences.

 

What to Expect in EMDR Therapy

 

EMDR is a structured, phased approach. We don’t jump straight into processing.

First, we focus on:

• Building safety and coping skills

• Understanding your history and goals

• Identifying the experiences and patterns you want to work on

Once you feel ready, we begin reprocessing targeted memories at a pace that feels manageable. You remain in control throughout the process, and we prioritize staying within your window of tolerance. Many clients notice that things they once felt stuck in begin to shift, sometimes more quickly than with traditional talk therapy alone.

 

My Approach to EMDR

I am trained in EMDR (Levels 1 & 2) and integrate it with approaches like Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and emotionally focused work. This allows us to not only process past experiences, but also understand and care for the parts of you that developed in response to them. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, less reactive, and more connected to yourself; so you’re not just understanding your patterns, but truly experiencing change.

 

Is EMDR Right for You?

EMDR may be a good fit if:

• You feel stuck in patterns you can’t “think your way out of”

• Past experiences still feel emotionally or physically activated

• You struggle with shame, self-criticism, or body-based distress

• You’re looking for a deeper, more experiential approach to healing

 

If you’re curious about whether EMDR is a good fit for you, I’m happy to talk more and answer any questions.