Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a structured therapy for processing distressing memories and connected beliefs. It combines attention to an experience with alternating stimulation, such as guided eye movements or tapping.
We begin with your history, goals, and preparation—including ways to manage distress during and between sessions. When you’re ready, we identify an experience, related thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. I guide short sets of alternating stimulation and check in as we go. You remain awake and able to pause.
A memory may feel less immediate or upsetting, with fewer reactions to reminders or less self-blame. The aim is to change how an experience affects you, not erase the memory.
You generally don’t need to describe every detail aloud, though we need enough shared understanding to guide treatment. We plan for support between appointments and review progress together. EMDR can be part of ongoing therapy or an intensive.