What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, is a trauma-focused psychotherapy that helps people process distressing experiences that may still feel emotionally or physically “stuck.” It is well researched and strongly recommended as a treatment for PTSD.

Sometimes you can understand exactly what happened to you and still feel as though your body or emotions have not gotten the message that it is over. A memory, sound, relationship, sensation, or situation may bring back fear, shame, grief, or a sense of being right back where you were.

EMDR can help your brain process those experiences differently.

What does EMDR therapy feel like?

EMDR is different from traditional talk therapy. You generally do not have to tell every detail of what happened, and there is typically no homework between sessions. During processing, we identify a memory or experience to work with while using bilateral stimulation, such as guided side-to-side eye movements or alternating tapping.

We do not simply jump into your most painful memories. EMDR is an eight-phase therapy that includes getting to know your history, preparing for the work, developing resources, processing memories, and making sure you feel grounded before we finish.

I pay close attention to pacing. The goal is not to overwhelm you or make you relive what happened. It is to help the experience become something you can remember without feeling as though you are still living inside of it.

Could EMDR be right for me?

I most often use EMDR when symptoms continue and impede how someone feels, responds, or relates to themselves and others.

EMDR is not necessarily the right approach for every person or every season of therapy. We will talk together about your history, symptoms, goals, and readiness before deciding whether it makes sense for you.

If you are curious about EMDR, you do not need to know whether you are “ready” before reaching out. We can start with a conversation. I am happy to answer your questions, explain what the process might look like for you, and decide together whether EMDR feels like the right next step.

Can EMDR therapy be done without a trained EMDR therapist?
EMDR therapy is a type of mental health treatment. As a result, it should be provided only by adequately trained and licensed mental health practitioners. EMDRIA does not condone or encourage indiscriminate EMDR treatment applications, such as “do-it-yourself” virtual therapy.

This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical or mental health care. EMDR should be provided by an appropriately trained licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a mental health crisis, call 911, go to the nearest emergency department, or call/text 988.