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Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing 

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps your brain process painful or overwhelming experiences so they no longer feel as triggering, intense, or stuck. It’s an evidence-based therapy commonly used for trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and distress from past experiences.

You don’t need to talk about your trauma in detail for EMDR to work. We focus instead on how memories and emotions live in your body and nervous system — and help them move into a more regulated, grounded place.

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How It Helps

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements, tapping, or alternating sounds) to activate the brain’s natural information-processing system. This allows the memory to be reprocessed so it becomes less emotionally charged and less intrusive.

During EMDR, you remain aware and in control while briefly bringing attention to aspects of the memory. The goal is not to erase the memory, but to reduce the emotional intensity, update the meaning of the experience, and lower the physical reactivity associated with it.

What Sessions Look Like

We move slowly and intentionally. Sessions often include:

  • Grounding and regulation tools

  • Identifying the beliefs or emotions connected to an experience

  • Bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or sounds)

  • Processing the memory in a safe, controlled way

  • Closing with grounding and stabilization

You are always in control of the pace. We only process when your nervous system feels ready.

Who It’s Helpful For

EMDR can help if you’re struggling with:

  • Trauma (single event or ongoing)

  • Anxiety or panic

  • Negative self-beliefs

  • Emotional triggers

  • Feeling “stuck” in the past

  • Chronic stress

  • Relationship wounds

  • Attachment Issues

What to Expect / Timeline

EMDR begins with preparation and stabilization so you have the tools you need to stay grounded. When you’re ready, we identify target memories or experiences and use bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or tones) to help your brain process them. Sessions are structured, but the pace is always adjusted to your comfort level. You remain in control the entire time.

Timeline:
EMDR is highly individualized. Some clients notice meaningful changes within a few sessions, while others benefit from a longer course of treatment, especially if there are multiple memories or long-term trauma. Early sessions focus on history-taking and building skills, and processing begins only when your nervous system is ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

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