Services
EMDR
EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) was discovered by accident in 1987 by Francine Shapiro, a psychology graduate student at the time. While walking in the park, she noticed that she experienced relief from upsetting thoughts and emotions when she moved her eyes rapidly from side-to-side. She eventually created a protocol based on this observation that could be duplicated and studied, now known as EMDR Therapy. She originally worked with people suffering from PTSD, including combat veterans, and found they experienced relief and reported feeling better after several sessions. EMDR is now recognized as one of the most effective and evidenced- based models for the treatment of traumatic experience.
EMDR follows a specific protocol, with a beginning and an end. The therapist guides the client through a series of 8 Phases, ultimately utilizing bilateral eye movements, tactile stimulation, or audio tones, to assist the client in reprocessing the stuck memory. When we experience traumatic life events, our brain stores the memory away for later while we are surviving the event in real time. That memory, not fully processed, shows up in our present-day life as hypervigilance, overwhelm, reactivity, relationship difficulties, hyperarousal, among other other symptoms. It shows up in our bodies, affects the way we physically feel, the way we hold ourselves, and in our relationships with others.
People ask:
How long does it take?
Everyone is different. When the traumatic or difficult memory has had years to “crystalize,” more sessions are required than for those whom the traumatic experience has just occurred. Additionally, the process of “resourcing,” meaning developing coping strategies for grounding the nervous system, is also dependent upon the individual.
What does it feel like?
Bringing up traumatic material can elicit anxious feelings; however, clients report that the bilateral stimulation feels relaxing and grounding. In my in-person sessions, I first utilize the hand tappers for bilateral stimulation. For some individuals who have difficulty maintaining focus, I find that the audio tones are more effective. When doing virtual EMDR, I utilize the eye movements on the computer.
Will it work for me?
EMDR isn’t effective for everyone. In my 22 years of practice, however, I find it to be the most effective modality for treating trauma.
Let’s Bring Back the Conversations That Matter
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, you’re not alone. Therapy offers a supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and cared for — without judgment. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, healing, and meaningful change.
