What is
Eye Movement Desensitization
& Reprocessing?

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain process experiences that continue to feel distressing, overwhelming, or “stuck.”

EMDR may help when you know something logically, but your emotions or body haven't quite caught up.

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How does EMDR work?

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation—such as guided eye movements or alternating stimulation—to support the brain as it processes distressing memories and experiences.

During EMDR:

• You remain awake, aware, and in control

• You do not have to share every detail of what happened

• We work at a pace that feels manageable

• Distressing memories aren't erased

• The emotional intensity connected to them can decrease

• Negative beliefs can begin to shift

The goal isn't to forget what happened. It's to help your brain recognize that it isn't happening anymore.

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What can EMDR help with?

EMDR is best known for treating trauma and PTSD, but it can also be helpful for:

• Childhood trauma

• Anxiety and panic

• Depression

• Distressing or intrusive memories

• Grief and loss

• Shame and low self-worth

• Relationship and attachment wounds

• Rejection, abandonment, or betrayal

• Phobias and fears

• Medical trauma

• Difficult life experiences or transitions

• Negative beliefs about yourself

• Present-day triggers connected to past experiences

You don't need to have experienced one major traumatic event to benefit from EMDR.

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What does EMDR feel like?

EMDR isn't hypnosis, and you aren't unconscious or out of control.

During reprocessing, you may notice:

• Thoughts or memories

• Emotions

• Images

• Physical sensations

• New perspectives or connections

• Changes in how you view yourself or the experience

There is no “right” way to do EMDR. You simply notice what comes up while I help guide the process.

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Do I have to talk about everything?

No.

EMDR does not require you to describe every detail of an experience out loud. You choose what you share, and we work collaboratively throughout the process.

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How do we know it works?

EMDR has been extensively researched and is recognized as an evidence-based treatment for PTSD and trauma-related symptoms.

Research has found that EMDR can help:

• Reduce trauma-related distress

• Decrease intrusive memories and triggers

• Improve PTSD symptoms

• Shift negative beliefs connected to past experiences

• Reduce the emotional intensity of distressing memories

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Do we start with trauma right away?

No. Preparation matters.

Before beginning reprocessing, we'll consider:

• Your current stress level and stability

• Coping and grounding skills

• Your support system

• Your ability to tolerate difficult emotions

• What is happening in your life right now

• The experiences or patterns you would like to change

Some people are ready to begin reprocessing fairly quickly. Others benefit from more preparation first.

Faster isn't always better. Feeling safe enough to do the work matters.

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EMDR may be worth exploring if…

• “I know I'm safe, but I don't feel safe.”

• “I know it wasn't my fault, but part of me still believes it was.”

• “I've talked about this before, but it still affects me.”

• “My reaction feels bigger than what's happening right now.”

• “I understand where this comes from, but I don't know how to change it.”

• “I want to move forward, but something keeps pulling me back.”​

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