What is EMDR?
Understanding EMDR Therapy: A Pathway to Healing
As an EMDR therapist, one of the most common questions I hear is, "What exactly is EMDR therapy?" Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful, evidence-based approach that helps people heal from the emotional distress and symptoms caused by traumatic memories and difficult life experiences.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It’s a structured therapy that encourages the client to briefly focus on a troubling memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements, tapping, or sounds). This process is believed to help reduce the vividness and emotional charge of traumatic memories, allowing the brain to reprocess the experience in a healthier, more adaptive way.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn’t require clients to extensively discuss their trauma. Instead, it taps into the brain’s natural healing processes — much like how the body works to heal a physical wound. EMDR helps the mind "unstick" from painful memories and move toward a place of resolution and resilience.
Who Can Benefit from EMDR?
While EMDR was initially developed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), research has shown it can be highly effective for a range of issues, including:
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety and panic disorders
Phobias
Grief and loss
Childhood abuse or neglect
Chronic pain
Low self-esteem and negative self-beliefs
If you’ve ever felt "stuck" — as though old memories or emotions are holding you back — EMDR may help you break free and move forward.
What Does an EMDR Session Look Like?
During EMDR, we work together to identify a specific memory or issue that’s causing distress. I’ll guide you through sets of bilateral stimulation while you hold the memory in mind, helping your brain naturally process and reframe it. You are always in control during the session, and your well-being and sense of safety are our top priority.
EMDR is an eight-phase, structured approach that includes preparation, assessment, reprocessing, and integration. We move at your pace, and you don’t have to face anything you’re not ready for.
Why I Love Practicing EMDR
One of the most rewarding parts of being an EMDR therapist is witnessing the transformations my clients experience. EMDR can create profound shifts — not just relief from symptoms, but a reclaiming of hope, empowerment, and a renewed sense of self. Healing is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re curious about EMDR therapy or wondering if it might be the right fit for you, I would be honored to walk alongside you. Reach out today to schedule a consultation or learn more about how EMDR can support your journey toward healing and wholeness.