EMDR Therapy

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured therapy that uses bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping, while you focus on distressing memories. It’s an evidence-based treatment for PTSD and research is starting to show that it can support other mental health concerns.

Who might consider EMDR

  • People who’ve experienced trauma, including a difficult birth or pregnancy loss

  • People who feel stuck in old reactions or patterns that no longer fit

  • Family members whose loved one’s addiction has left them on edge or worn down

  • Anyone who feels distressed by a memory that talking about doesn’t seem to move

Commonly asked questions

What to expect

Getting started

We talk about your history, your goals, and what feels manageable.

Preparation

Before any processing, we build coping and grounding skills.

Processing

With bilateral stimulation, you notice what comes up at your own pace. You don’t have to describe every detail.

Closing and integrating

Each session ends with grounding, and we check in on what’s changing.

Some people feel tired or emotional after sessions, and difficult feelings can come up. We go at a pace that feels workable for you. EMDR isn’t right for everyone, and I’ll talk through whether it’s a good fit before we begin.

Additional support

If you or someone you love needs immediate help, call or text 988. SAMHSA’s National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) offers free, confidential treatment referrals 24/7. In an emergency, call 911.

  • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based psychotherapy that utilizes bilateral stimulation (tapping, eye movements) to help repair neural pathways damaged by traumatic experiences. EMDR does not retraumatize clients, and instead allows individuals to hold a memory in mind without speaking the details. According to the EMDR International Association, ongoing research supports positive clinical outcomes, showing EMDR therapy as a helpful treatment for disorders such as anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, addictions, and other distressing life experiences. A typical EMDR therapy session lasts from 60-90 minutes. EMDR therapy may be used in conjunction with standard talk therapy. Learn more here.

  • No. You can share as much or as little as feels right.

  • It varies a lot by person and history, so I can’t promise a number. We’ll check in regularly to see how you’re feeling.

  • Yes, if you’re located in Ohio and we’ve done solid preparation first.