EMDR Therapy

Healing from the past. Reclaiming your future.

When past experiences still feel overwhelming—whether they’re from years ago or just yesterday—EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) offers a powerful, research-backed path to relief.

EMDR is not traditional talk therapy. It’s a highly effective method that helps your brain and body reprocess trauma, anxiety, and distressing memories so they no longer carry the same emotional weight. Many clients find EMDR brings lasting change—often more quickly than they expected.

Whether you’re dealing with trauma, anxiety, relationship wounds, or old experiences that keep resurfacing, EMDR can help you move forward with more clarity, calm, and self-trust.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It’s an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for treating trauma and many other emotional challenges.

When something overwhelming happens, your brain sometimes gets "stuck" trying to process it. You may find yourself reliving the experience, avoiding reminders, or struggling with negative self-beliefs like “I’m not safe” or “It was my fault.” EMDR helps you process these stuck memories and the emotions tied to them, so they no longer feel as intense or triggering.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation—such as side-to-side eye movements, tapping, or tones—which helps your brain reprocess memories in a way that feels safe and manageable. You remain fully in control and aware throughout the process.

What Can EMDR Help With?

EMDR is widely used to treat:

  • PTSD and trauma (single-incident or complex)

  • Childhood abuse or neglect

  • Sexual assault or relationship trauma

  • Anxiety and panic attacks

  • Grief and loss

  • Performance anxiety

  • Negative self-beliefs and shame

  • Attachment and relationship wounds

It can also be used in combination with other therapeutic approaches as part of an integrative healing process.

What to Expect in EMDR Therapy

EMDR therapy typically follows a structured 8-phase model, adapted to your unique needs. Here’s what the process generally looks like:

1. Initial Assessment

We start by exploring your history, goals for therapy, and identifying key experiences or patterns that may be affecting your present life. EMDR is never rushed—we go at your pace.

2. Preparation

You’ll learn grounding tools and self-regulation techniques to help you feel safe and supported throughout the process. This step is crucial, especially for clients with complex trauma.

3. Targeting

Together, we’ll identify specific memories, beliefs, or body sensations to focus on. This might include current triggers, past trauma, or internalized messages you want to shift.

4. Reprocessing

Using bilateral stimulation (like guided eye movements or tapping), we begin the reprocessing phase. This is where your brain starts to “digest” the memory, reducing emotional intensity and shifting your internal beliefs.

5. Integration

As memories are reprocessed, we focus on reinforcing positive beliefs and emotional stability. Most clients report feeling lighter, more grounded, and better able to respond—rather than react—to life’s challenges.

Ready to Explore EMDR Therapy?

If you're tired of carrying the weight of the past and you're ready to experience real, lasting change—EMDR may be the right path forward.

Check out the FAQ below.

If you are curious about this work, schedule a session today. Courtney, Julianna, and Lizzy are all trained in EMDR.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I have to talk about the trauma in detail?

No. One of the unique benefits of EMDR is that you don’t have to verbally relive or describe every detail of the memory. You simply need to bring it to mind, and your brain does the healing work from there.

Is EMDR safe for everyone?

EMDR is safe for most people, but it’s important to work with a trained, trauma-informed therapist who can assess if it’s the right fit for you. We’ll always prioritize your emotional safety and readiness.

How long does EMDR therapy take?

It varies. Some people feel relief in just a few sessions, especially with single-incident trauma. For others—especially those with complex or developmental trauma—EMDR is part of a longer therapeutic process. You’ll never be rushed.

Does EMDR really work?

Yes. EMDR is recognized as an effective treatment by organizations such as the American Psychological Association, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Many clients report profound shifts in how they feel, think, and respond to the world after EMDR.

Can EMDR help with issues in relationships?

Absolutely. EMDR can help you process attachment wounds, betrayal trauma, intimacy struggles, and the lingering impact of past relationships—freeing you to engage more fully in the present..