EMDR

What is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a specialized, evidence-based approach designed to help you heal from the emotional distress caused by difficult life experiences. Originally developed to address trauma, EMDR is now recognized as effective for treating a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, phobias, and chronic stress.

EMDR therapy is based on the understanding that our brains have a natural capacity to process difficult experiences, but sometimes traumatic events overwhelm this system. When this happens, the memory becomes “stuck” in its original, distressing form, complete with the original images, emotions, sensations, and beliefs. EMDR helps restore your brain’s natural healing ability, allowing these memories to be processed in a healthier way.

Get Started

Book a free discovery call today!

How EMDR Therapy Works

EMDR therapy operates on the principle that the mind can heal from psychological trauma much as the body heals from physical trauma. Using a structured eight-phase approach, EMDR helps reprocess traumatic memories by:

Activating both hemispheres of the brain through bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements, taps, or tones)
Allowing the brain to access and process difficult memories in a safe, controlled environment
Transforming the way these memories are stored in the brain
Integrating new, adaptive beliefs and perspectives about yourself and the experience

Through this process, distressing memories lose their intensity, becoming less disruptive to your daily life. Unlike some forms of therapy that focus primarily on changing thoughts or behaviors, EMDR addresses the neurobiological roots of emotional suffering.

Benefits of EMDR Therapy

Research has demonstrated numerous benefits of EMDR therapy, including:

Clients report that EMDR helps them not only overcome specific traumatic memories but also transforms their broader sense of self and their place in the world. The insights gained through EMDR often apply to many areas of life, leading to comprehensive healing.

How I Incorporate EMDR in My Practice

As a certified EMDR therapist, I integrate this powerful approach within a holistic framework that honors your unique experience and needs. I believe that trauma healing happens not just through techniques but within the context of a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship.

In my practice, I combine EMDR with elements of somatic awareness, mindfulness, and attachment-focused approaches. This integration allows us to address not only the cognitive aspects of trauma but also how it’s held in the body and impacts your relationships.

I carefully tailor the pace and intensity of EMDR therapy to your comfort level. Some clients benefit from gradually building up to memory processing, while others are ready to dive deeper more quickly. Throughout our work together, you remain in control of the process.

What to Expect During an EMDR Session

EMDR therapy follows a systematic approach across multiple sessions. After an initial assessment phase where we discuss your history and establish treatment goals, we’ll begin the EMDR protocol:

Preparation: I’ll teach you grounding and self-regulation techniques to ensure you feel safe and in control throughout the process
Assessment: Together, we’ll identify specific memories to target and the negative beliefs associated with them
Desensitization: You’ll focus on the target memory while experiencing bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or tones)
Installation: We’ll strengthen positive beliefs to replace the negative ones associated with the traumatic memory
Body scan: We’ll ensure that all physical tension related to the memory has been processed
Closure: Every session ends with stabilization techniques, regardless of whether the memory processing is complete
Reevaluation: At the beginning of subsequent sessions, we’ll assess progress and determine next steps

A typical EMDR session lasts about 60-90 minutes. The number of sessions needed varies based on your specific circumstances, but many clients experience significant relief within 8-12 sessions for single-incident traumas. More complex or developmental trauma may require additional sessions.

Is EMDR Therapy Right for You?

EMDR therapy can be particularly beneficial if:

You’ve experienced trauma, either from a single event or ongoing situations
You find yourself triggered by certain places, people, or situations
Traditional talk therapy hasn’t fully resolved your symptoms
You experience flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories
Anxiety, phobias, or panic attacks interfere with your daily life
You struggle with negative beliefs about yourself related to past experiences
You’re seeking deeper healing beyond symptom management

EMDR is safe and effective for most people, though there are some conditions where modifications may be necessary. During our initial consultation, we’ll determine together whether EMDR is appropriate for your specific situation.

Taking the Next Step

Beginning EMDR therapy is a significant step toward healing past wounds and creating a life less constrained by trauma. I understand that talking about difficult experiences can feel intimidating, and I’m committed to creating a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood.

If you’re considering EMDR therapy, I invite you to schedule an initial consultation where we can discuss your concerns and how this approach might help. Together, we’ll develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals.

Contact me today to learn more about how EMDR therapy can help you transform painful memories into stepping stones for growth and healing.

Let's Begin Your Healing Journey

Offering Telehealth & In-person Visits ( Licensed in MA)