The EMDR Therapy Process

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I have found EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to be a highly effective and efficient method for addressing symptoms of acute stress, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, and grief. EMDR Therapy involves processing "stuck" memories using bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tactile buzzers, to accelerate the brain’s ability to heal and resolve distressing material. These memories may involve major traumatic events ("Big T" traumas like violence, assault, or life-threatening injuries) or smaller adverse experiences ("Little T" traumas like social rejection or name-calling). Unresolved memories can make the past feel like the present and distort current experiences.

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The brain naturally heals from difficult events, much like the body heals from physical wounds. EMDR Therapy helps "clean out" these mental wounds, allowing the brain to restore healthy functioning. While other therapies may offer insight into emotional roots and provide tools to change behavior, EMDR Therapy helps create spontaneous emotional, cognitive, and behavioral changes.

That said, EMDR Therapy can be intense. It is a multi-phase process involving significant assessment, preparation, and targeted reprocessing of past experiences, present triggers, and future challenges. Activating the thoughts, feelings, and sensations tied to distressing memories can be difficult, but this process often leads to the neutralization of the pain, allowing the brain to integrate new, positive perspectives on safety, efficacy, and self-worth.

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The Effectiveness of EMDR Therapy: 

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EMDR Therapy was originally developed to treat trauma, and over 24 randomized studies have validated its effectiveness. The following organizations have endorsed EMDR Therapy:

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs & Department of Defense (2004, 2010) – Strongly recommended for trauma treatment

• American Psychiatric Association (2004) – Approved for the treatment of Acute Stress Disorder and PTSD

• SAMHSA (2011) – Listed in the National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices for reducing trauma-related stress, anxiety, and depression

• World Health Organization (2013) – Formally recommended for PTSD treatment in adults and children

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I am certified in EMDR and have pursued advanced training in treating Complex Trauma and dissociation. I am committed to ongoing education to effectively address the diverse needs of my clients. Here are some common issues I treat using EMDR Therapy:

• Anxiety, including PTSD, panic, and social phobia

• Depression

• Grief

• Domestic violence

• Physical, emotional abuse, and neglect

• Social rejection

• Traumatic injuries (e.g., car accidents, medical trauma)

• Borderline Personality Disorder

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Cautions and Safety Considerations for EMDR Therapy

It is important to evaluate your current life circumstances before beginning EMDR Therapy. You may need to adjust your schedule following sessions, and certain life changes (e.g., shifts in social, professional, or intimate relationships) may occur as a result of EMDR therapy.

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After an EMDR session, reprocessing may continue. You might experience memories, flashbacks, dreams, or sensations. Often, your brain will handle these without overwhelming you. It’s important not to dwell on trauma-related material outside of sessions; instead, use the calming techniques provided by your therapist and reach out if necessary.

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Please inform your therapist and consult with your doctor before beginning EMDR therapy if you have any of the following conditions:

• Diagnosed heart disease, heart condition, or history of heart attack

• Elevated blood pressure

• Risk or history of stroke or seizure

• Current pregnancy (consult with your OB/GYN to weigh the risks and benefits)

• Eye problems that could be affected by rapid bilateral eye movement (e.g., contact lenses causing irritation—alternative methods will be used if needed)

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Medication use should also be discussed, as some medications, such as benzodiazepines or antidepressants, may impact the effectiveness of EMDR.

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If you are involved in legal proceedings, inform your therapist. Reprocessed memories using EMDR Therapy may be questioned in court. Consider this risk with your legal counsel before proceeding.