About EMDR

What Is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro to help people process distressing experiences and reduce the emotional impact of traumatic memories.

EMDR is widely recognized as an effective treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other mental health conditions. It can help individuals who continue to experience distress related to past events, even when they understand intellectually that those experiences are over.

How Does EMDR Work?

When we experience something overwhelming or traumatic, memories of those events can remain associated with intense emotions, negative beliefs, and physical sensations.

EMDR uses a structured therapeutic process to help people revisit and process distressing memories in a safe, supported environment. During portions of treatment, the therapist uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or alternating sounds or taps.

The goal is to reduce the distress associated with these memories and help individuals develop more adaptive ways of understanding themselves and their experiences.

What Can EMDR Help With?

EMDR has strong research support for treating PTSD and trauma-related symptoms. It may also be incorporated into treatment for individuals experiencing:

  • Distressing memories and unresolved trauma

  • Anxiety related to past experiences

  • Negative beliefs about themselves

  • Grief and loss

  • Difficult life experiences that continue to affect emotional well-being

The appropriateness of EMDR depends on each person's history, symptoms, and treatment goals.

What Should I Expect During EMDR Therapy?

EMDR is more than simply moving your eyes while thinking about a difficult experience. Treatment follows a structured, eight-phase approach that includes understanding your history, developing coping and stabilization skills, identifying experiences to address, processing distressing memories, and evaluating progress.

You do not need to describe every detail of a traumatic experience for EMDR to be effective.

The pace of treatment is individualized, and preparation is an important part of the process.

My Approach to EMDR

As an EMDR Certified Therapist with advanced training in trauma-related disorders, I integrate EMDR into a compassionate, collaborative approach to psychotherapy.

I work with adolescents and adults to determine whether EMDR is appropriate for their needs and to develop a treatment plan that supports safety, emotional stability, and meaningful change.

Learn More

For additional information about EMDR therapy, visit the EMDR International Association at www.emdria.org.