EMDR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured therapy approach originally developed to help people recover from traumatic and distressing experiences. EMDR incorporates elements of several therapeutic approaches, including working with memories, emotions, body sensations, beliefs, and present-day responses, along with bilateral stimulation such as eye movements or tapping.

The approach is based on the understanding that some experiences may not become fully processed and can continue to influence how we feel, think, and respond in the present. EMDR provides a structured way to work with these experiences and can help reduce the emotional intensity and distress associated with them.

Who Is EMDR For?

EMDR may be helpful for people who have experienced trauma or other distressing experiences that continue to affect how they feel, think, respond, or relate in the present. This can include:

  • Traumatic or overwhelming experiences

  • Anxiety, fear, or a heightened sense of alertness

  • Distressing memories, images, or sensations connected to past experiences

  • Grief or loss that feels difficult to process

  • Relationship difficulties connected to earlier experiences

  • Significant life changes or experiences that continue to feel unresolved

  • Feeling stuck in ways that seem connected to the past

EMDR is not limited to a single traumatic event. It can also be explored when earlier experiences continue to influence present-day emotions, relationships, or responses.

How EMDR Works

I use EMDR as part of a collaborative, trauma-informed approach, adapting the process to each client's needs and readiness. We begin by developing resources for safety, grounding, and emotional regulation before moving into trauma processing.

During EMDR, we focus on specific memories or experiences that may be contributing to current thoughts, emotions, body sensations, or reactions, and work with them in a structured way. The process can create space for greater groundedness, flexibility, and connection in the present, while allowing past experiences to feel less overwhelming.

My EMDR Training

I have received training in EMDR through an EMDRIA-approved organization and incorporate EMDR into my broader therapeutic work when it is appropriate for a client's needs and goals.

Learn More About EMDR

The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) offers additional information about EMDR therapy.