Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a heavily researched, trauma informed, evidenced-based approach to healing from trauma. With EMDR, the client selects “target” memories to reprocess and desensitize in treatment.

Trauma memories tend to be stored along networks in the brain, and tend to include highly sensory (intense images, smells, sounds, tactile and even taste-based) memories.

Using bilateral stimulation (BLS) through eye movements, auditory tones, or tapping, we are able to remap memories in the neural
network to create more adaptive recall. After completing EMDR, clients report that memories that were initially highly triggering and activating, can now be recalled as a simple event with a few non-intrusive images.

EMDR contains 8 distinct phases. Clients often report that they can work through single event traumas (like a car accident) over the course of a few months (12-16 sessions). Complex traumas (such as childhood abuse and neglect) may require more lengthy care to achieve best outcomes.