EMDR, explained simply

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. That’s a mouthful, so here’s what it actually means for you.

What it is

Sometimes a hard experience gets “stuck.” Years later, something small can bring back the same fear, shame, or panic as if it were happening again. EMDR helps your brain finish processing those experiences, so the memory is still there but it stops carrying the same charge.

It’s one of the most researched therapies for trauma and is recommended in international treatment guidelines, including the World Health Organization’s. It’s also used for anxiety, panic, and the negative beliefs we hold about ourselves.

What a session looks like

We prepare first. Before any processing, we build skills to help you feel calm and grounded.
We pick a focus. A memory, a feeling, or a belief like “I’m not good enough.”
Bilateral stimulation. While you briefly hold that in mind, you follow side-to-side eye movements, or use tapping or tones.
Your brain does the work. In between sets we check in. Over time, the memory feels less intense, and more helpful beliefs start to feel true.

Who it can help

EMDR can help with anxiety, panic, painful experiences big or small, and beliefs that keep you stuck. It isn’t the right fit for everyone or every situation, and we’ll decide together whether it makes sense for you.

I’m an EMDRIA-trained EMDR clinician, and I use it alongside other approaches like DBT and IFS. EMDR sessions are 2 hours long, and if EMDR is why you’re coming in, we can start those sessions right away.

Common questions

Do I have to talk about everything that happened?: No. One of the things people appreciate about EMDR is that you don’t have to describe every detail out loud. You stay in control of what you share.
Is it like hypnosis?: No. You’re awake, aware, and in charge the whole time. You can pause or stop whenever you need to.
How long does it take?: It depends on what we’re working on. Some people notice a difference within a few sessions; more complex experiences take longer. We’ll talk about what to expect for you.
Can teens do EMDR?: Yes. EMDR is used with teens and young adults, and I adapt the pace to each person.
Can we do EMDR online?: Yes, I can do EMDR online. In my experience, though, teens and young adults usually do better in person, so we’ll decide together what’s right for you.