EMDR

EMDR Therapy

Healing from trauma and distressing experiences

Sometimes, trauma feels so overwhelming that it’s hard to picture a life where you’re not defined by the worst things that have happened to you. But, healing is possible, and EMDR can help you move toward a life that feels more present, steady, and free.

What is EMDR?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps people process traumatic memories and other distressing life experiences so they no longer feel as overwhelming in daily life. EMDR has been extensively researched and is widely used to help people recover from trauma and PTSD symptoms.

How does EMDR work?

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (a rhythmic, alternating sensory input) to trigger both the left and right hemispheres of your brain in a way that makes processing traumatic memories a little easier to do. The bilateral stimulation can come in a few different forms, but it usually involves side-to-side eye movement, rhythmic tapping, or alternating sounds. As you experience the stimulation, an EMDR therapist helps you safely share your trauma memories so that they no longer feel overwhelming or dysregulating – not just in the present, but in a lasting way.

How to know if EMDR is right for you

At Evergreen Counseling, EMDR therapy offers a path forward for people who feel stuck in the effects of past experiences. You do not have to tell your story over and over in order to begin healing. EMDR helps the brain reprocess painful memories so the emotional intensity can lessen and a greater sense of calm, safety, and control can grow.

EMDR may help with:

  • Trauma and PTSD

  • Anxiety and panic

  • Disturbing memories, nightmares, and flashbacks

  • Childhood wounds

  • Grief and loss

  • Negative beliefs about yourself

  • Ongoing stress connected to painful life events

FAQ’S

  • EMDR is not a quick fix, but it is a structured process. Your therapist first helps you build coping tools, understand your goals, and make sure you feel grounded and supported. From there, therapy helps you process painful experiences in a careful, paced way that fits your needs. EMDR is typically provided in phases by a clinician trained in the model.

  • Yes, you can absolutely receive traditional talk therapy while in EMDR treatment. There are a few different options: 1) Our EMDR therapists are also traditionally trained, so you could see one therapist for both talk therapy and EMDR. 2) You can see your talk therapist, while also seeing an EMDR therapist. The counselors can work together to collaborate on your care. 3) You can take a brief break from talk therapy to focus on EMDR treatment, knowing that you can always return to regular talk therapy with improved functioning and ability to regulate.

  • People who get positive results from EMDR report feeling like their traumatic memories no longer have such a strong hold over them. If EMDR is working for you, you will likely experience more moments of calm and emotional regulation, reduced nightmares and flashbacks, and increased self-esteem.

  • EMDR can be used to treat children as young as 3. At Evergreen Counseling, we treat clients using EMDR who are ages —--

  • Yes, it is possible to take part in EMDR in a virtual environment. Your therapist will work with you to accommodate the treatment plan.

  • No, EMDR treatment is covered by most insurance plans. Your typical therapy service fees and copays will still apply.

Our Therapists Trained in EMDR

Summary Block
This block has no content yet. Items you add to the page connected to this block will display here.
Featured

If you are interested in EMDR therapy, Evergreen Counseling is here to help you explore whether this approach is a good fit for your healing journey.

GET STARTED