EMDR Therapy
Reprocessing What’s Been Stuck
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy that helps people move through painful or overwhelming experiences—especially the ones that feel like they’re stuck on repeat. Whether it’s something that happened years ago or a recent situation that left an impact, EMDR helps the brain do what it was always meant to do: heal.
I have found that this method allows you to learn about your own body’s wisdom to build internal trust that feels real.
How EMDR Works: The Brain’s Natural Healing System
EMDR therapy is based on the idea that our brains already have what they need to process difficult experiences. When we sleep—particularly during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep—our brains naturally reprocess information, making connections and storing memories in more adaptive ways. EMDR mimics this process by using bilateral stimulation (BLS), such as eye movements or alternating tapping, to help the brain reprocess memories that are stuck or disturbing.
Sometimes, trauma or chronic stress gets in the way of this natural processing system. EMDR helps restart that healing by engaging both the brain and body in a way that brings relief, insight, and lasting change.
What EMDR Can Help With:
EMDR has helped many people move forward from long-held emotional pain or stress responses. You don’t need a formal diagnosis to benefit.
Some common concerns include:
Feeling stuck in negative self-beliefs (e.g., “I’m not good enough” or “I can’t trust anyone”)
Ongoing anxiety or overreacting to specific situations
Reactions to past experiences that still feel present or emotionally charged
BUTTERFLY HUG BLS TECHNIQUE
What to Expect: A Structured and Supportive Process
EMDR is a highly structured therapy. You won’t be doing this alone or without a roadmap. We’ll work through eight clearly defined phases, always checking in about what you need and what’s coming up.
Here’s a look at the 8 phases of EMDR:
History Taking & Treatment Planning – We discuss your goals and background to understand how EMDR can best support you.
Preparation – I’ll teach you grounding tools to help you feel safe, regulated, and in control during the process.
Assessment – We identify the specific memory or issue to target and how it shows up in your body and thoughts.
Desensitization – Using bilateral stimulation, we work to reduce the emotional charge of the memory.
Installation – We strengthen a positive belief to replace the negative one.
Body Scan – We check in with your body to make sure there’s relief both emotionally and physically.
Closure – We wrap up each session in a way that leaves you grounded and supported.
Reevaluation – At the next session, we see what’s shifted and determine next steps.
Bilateral Stimulation in Virtual EMDR
If we’re working together virtually, no worries—there are still several effective ways to provide bilateral stimulation (BLS) online. These may include:
Visual tracking using your eyes on the screen
Alternating audio tones via headphones
Self-tapping techniques (like “butterfly taps”)
We’ll go over these options during your intake to find what works best for you.
