EMDR Therapy

PTSD & Trauma Therapy in Lakewood, Colorado

Virtual EMDR Therapy in Ohio

What is EMDR?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) is an evidence-based form of trauma therapy that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories that may be contributing to anxiety, emotional reactivity, and feeling “stuck.” It has been extensively researched and shown to support improvement in concerns such as anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, addiction, trauma, and PTSD (Maxfield, 2019).

At times, when you experience a difficult or overwhelming event, the brain is unable to fully process and store that experience in a way that feels resolved. As a result, the memory may continue to feel active in the present—showing up as intrusive thoughts, emotional triggers, avoidance, or a sense of reliving the experience.

How Does EMDR Work?

EMDR uses a structured approach that differs from traditional talk therapy. Rather than focusing primarily on discussion, the process involves briefly activating a memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements or alternating tactile pulses).

This process—similar to what occurs during REM sleep—helps the brain “unstick” and reprocess the memory so it can be stored more adaptively. Over time, the memory becomes less emotionally intense and more integrated, allowing you to recall it with greater clarity and less reactivity.

The EMDR process is divided into stages:

In the first few sessions, we review your top goals for therapy as well as identify the pivotal events during your life and how they affected you.
In earlier stages, we take time to develop resources like coping strategies, grounding techniques, and identifying internal strengths.
In subsequent stages, we undergo formal reprocessing, incorporating the bilateral stimulation. We focus on each of the target events, one at a time, until they are all resolved.

There is no set timeline for completion. We move at a pace that feels manageable and supportive, allowing your brain to process in its own way.

Integration with Neurotherapy

For some clients, EMDR can be complemented with neurotherapy to further support the brain’s capacity for regulation and processing.

Neurotherapy (including neurostimulation) may help:

Improve baseline regulation and reduce overwhelm
Support the brain in accessing and sustaining processing states
Enhance stabilization before or after deeper reprocessing work

In some cases, sessions may be structured to include both neurotherapy and EMDR in a coordinated way, particularly for clients engaging in more intensive or extended formats.

This integration is optional and based on your goals, preferences, and clinical fit.

The Path Forward

You may be wanting to do the deeper work, but can feel like there’s something that’s preventing you from doing so. It’s not because you’re incapable or not trying hard enough; sometimes, your brain is actually “stuck” in its protective mode, trying to keep you safe.

Approaches like EMDR can help safely “unlock” that depth and insight that you’ve been struggling to access on your own.

Your life does not have to be defined or controlled by adverse experiences. You can experience peace, calm, and the ability to write the next chapters of your life the way you want.

References:

Maxfield, L. (2019). A clinician’s guide to the efficacy of EMDR therapy. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research [Editorial], 13(4), 239-246. Open access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.13.4.239

EMDR FAQs

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured therapy that helps the brain process and resolve distressing experiences so they feel less overwhelming over time.
EMDR uses guided bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements or tapping) while you briefly focus on a memory. This helps the brain reprocess the experience in a more adaptive way.
EMDR is commonly used for trauma, anxiety, and distressing experiences. It can also help with negative beliefs, stress, and patterns that feel difficult to shift.
Clients often describe EMDR as a process of allowing memories and thoughts to move through the mind while the therapist guides the session. People may notice shifts in emotions, body sensations, or perspectives as the brain processes the memory. Many clients report that memories feel less intense or more distant after processing.
EMDR is a widely used, research-supported therapy. Preparation and pacing are an important part of the process to help you feel grounded and supported.
EMDR has been studied extensively and is considered an evidence-based treatment for trauma by several major health organizations. Research suggests it can significantly reduce trauma-related symptoms and emotional distress for many individuals.
The number of sessions varies depending on factors such as the type of concern being addressed, the number of memories involved, and each person’s therapeutic goals. Some clients notice changes in a relatively short period of time, while others benefit from a longer course of therapy.
Many therapists offer EMDR through secure telehealth platforms. When done virtually, therapists typically use digital tools or guided methods for bilateral stimulation. Not all clients or situations are ideal for virtual EMDR, so therapists often assess whether telehealth is appropriate.
Yes. Some clients use neurotherapy to support regulation and EMDR to process specific experiences. When appropriate, these approaches can complement each other.
The best way to determine whether EMDR therapy may be helpful is to speak with a trained therapist. During an initial consultation or intake session, the therapist can discuss your goals, symptoms, and treatment options to determine whether EMDR might be a good fit.