EMDR therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR)

(EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy

As a Certified EMDR Therapist, Approved EMDR Consultant, and EMDR Trainer, I utilize EMDR Therapy extensively in my work.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements or tapping) to help individuals reprocess past experiences at a deeper level. Backed by extensive research (see below), EMDR is widely recognized as a gold-standard treatment for PTSD and is used for anxiety, performance blocks, and more.

EMDR is not a quick fix, it works differently for everyone. Those with more extensive trauma histories may have more to process, and that’s completely okay. There is no right or wrong way to move through the work. What matters is approaching the process without self-judgment. How you respond to EMDR is something we’ll discover together as we begin.

Now, can EMDR work quickly? Definitely! This is often the case for children, individuals with fewer impactful experiences, or those processing a single-incident trauma. It can also be more effective early on for people who have already done therapeutic work, as there may be fewer interconnected issues to address.

 EMDR is not a Quick Fix and works differently for each person.

HOW EMDR WORKS

What to expect in sessions with EMDR therapy

The first few sessions will focus on understanding your history and introducing mindfulness and grounding strategies to support emotional regulation. At the same time, we’ll begin identifying the memories that may be contributing to your current challenges. Once we have a clear picture of the key memories to address, we’ll create a structured plan to target each one, helping you revisit these experiences without triggering intense emotional responses.

EMDR therapy is considered complete when the identified target memories no longer evoke strong emotional reactions, and you’ve developed tools to manage future challenges with greater confidence and resilience.

I use EMDR to help with the following (but not limited to):

  • performance blocks

  • performance enhancement for high-stakes roles

  • perfectionism and fear of failure

  • imposter syndrome and self-doubt

  • stage fright and public speaking anxiety

  • creative blocks (writers, musicians, artists, performers)

  • burnout and chronic stress

  • identity and self-worth challenges tied to achievement

  • pressure from high visibility or public-facing roles

  • abuse (physical, mental, sexual, psychological)

  • trauma experiences (abuse, medical, combat, etc)

  • phobias and specific fears (e.g., flying, driving, heights)

  • generalized anxiety and overthinking

  • life transitions (retirement from sports, career shifts, loss of creative identity)

Overview of the process

The Research

EMDR is widely accepted as one of the gold standard treatments for Post traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Please visit the EMDRIA site for extensive information on EMDR research.

For more information on the importance of the bilaterals in EMDR Therapy, view this helpful video.

Along with treating PTSD, you will find many other studies that qualitatively show the vast array of implications for EMDR Therapy, including anxiety and depression.

Learn About EMDR Intensive Sessions

Emdr intensives

EMDR therapy FAQs

What is EMDR therapy?


EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an extensively researched therapy that uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements or tapping) to help your brain reprocess past experiences that are still affecting you. It follows an eight-phase protocol and is recognized as an effective treatment for PTSD by organizations including the World Health Organization, the American Psychological Association, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

How many EMDR sessions will I need?


EMDR is not a quick fix, and it works differently for everyone. Someone processing a single recent event may move through the work quickly, while a more extensive history takes more time, and that's completely okay. The first few sessions focus on your history and grounding skills before any reprocessing begins.

How much does EMDR therapy cost?


Sessions are $300 for 50 minutes, via telehealth. EMDR intensives, which condense the work into longer, focused sessions, are scheduled and priced separately.

Is EMDR covered by insurance?


I don't bill insurance directly. I can provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement. It's worth calling your insurer before we begin to ask about your out-of-network mental health benefits.

Does virtual EMDR work?


Yes. My practice is fully telehealth, and EMDR adapts well to video sessions. Bilateral stimulation works on screen through guided eye movements or tapping, and we'll set up what works best for you in your first sessions.