EMDR
EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a therapy approach designed to help the brain reprocess experiences that still feel emotionally “stuck.” Sometimes we can know logically that something is over or that we’re safe now, while our emotions or body continue to react as if it’s still happening. EMDR can help reduce the intensity of those reactions and shift the beliefs connected to them.
As an EMDR-trained therapist, I use EMDR to help clients work through experiences that continue to feel emotionally charged or shape how they see themselves, others, or the world.
What Can EMDR Help With?
EMDR is often associated with trauma, but it can also be helpful for experiences that continue to affect how you see yourself, other people, or the world.
This may include:
traumatic or distressing experiences
anxiety and fears
negative beliefs about yourself
relationship wounds
difficult memories
experiences that still feel emotionally charged
patterns that seem connected to something from the past
What Does EMDR Look Like?
EMDR is more than simply moving your eyes back and forth. We spend time understanding what brings you to therapy, building coping skills, identifying what we want to work on, and making sure you feel prepared before beginning reprocessing.
During reprocessing, you may briefly focus on a memory, thought, emotion, or body sensation while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or alternating tapping. From there, I’ll periodically check in and help guide the process as your brain makes new connections.
You also don’t have to describe every detail of an experience out loud for EMDR to be effective.
Is EMDR Right for Me?
Maybe, but you don’t need to know that before you walk in the door. We can talk through what you’re experiencing, your goals, and whether EMDR makes sense as part of your treatment.