EMDR Therapy

Most people experience some form of trauma during their lives, whether it’s a single event or ongoing struggles. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed or stuck after trauma. According to the American Psychological Association, nearly 70% of adults in the United States have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. Whether the trauma is from childhood, relationships, accidents, or significant life changes, the emotional impact can leave lasting impacts.

The good news is that EMDR therapy can help the healing process. Many clients find they are able to release old emotional patterns, feel more present, and gain a deeper sense of control over their emotions. 

EMDR therapy offers a scientifically-backed approach to process traumatic memories and experiences. By using bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements), EMDR helps the brain reprocess and reframe distressing memories, reducing their emotional intensity. This technique can help you reframe negative beliefs, shift unhelpful emotions, and feel more empowered in your everyday life.

During EMDR sessions, we will focus on identifying specific memories or experiences that continue to affect you. The goal is to process these memories so they no longer trigger intense emotional responses or unwanted behaviors. This is done in a safe, structured environment with a focus on your comfort. You will also learn coping strategies to help you stay grounded in the present, empowering you to manage stress and anxiety.

With over 10 years of experience in trauma-informed care and EMDR therapy, I have seen firsthand the positive changes clients can experience. Many clients find that after completing EMDR therapy, they feel more at ease, regain a sense of control, and experience lasting healing. Together, we will work to help you process your trauma and move forward with renewed hope.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps heal trauma by using bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements, taps, or sounds) to reprocess trauma-related memories. When trauma occurs, it can overwhelm the brain’s ability to process the event, causing memories to get “stuck” in the brain’s emotional center. EMDR helps your brain process these memories, reducing their emotional charge and allowing you to integrate them with healthier beliefs and perspectives.

Through this process, the traumatic memories lose their intensity and no longer trigger strong emotional or somatic responses. Each session builds on the last, gradually helping you heal from trauma while replacing negative beliefs with more positive, empowering ones.

Over time, EMDR helps you reframe how you think and respond to past experiences, creating lasting emotional relief. It also provides tools to stay grounded and manage stress in your daily life, allowing you to regain control and move forward with a greater sense of peace and emotional resilience.

What if I don’t want to relive the trauma during EMDR?

It’s completely understandable to feel concerned about revisiting painful memories. In EMDR, we work at your pace and only focus on memories you’re ready to process. You are always in control of the process, and the goal is to help you reprocess memories in a way that reduces their emotional intensity. Another valuable aspect of EMDR is that it doesn’t require you to talk in detail about the trauma itself. This can be especially reassuring for those concerned about 'reliving' the experience during therapy.

How long will it take for EMDR to work?

The duration of EMDR therapy varies depending on the severity of the trauma and your healing process. Many clients feel relief after just a few sessions, but the process may take longer. On average, clients can expect between 6 and 12 sessions to work through significant trauma.

Is EMDR safe?

Yes, EMDR is a safe and effective therapeutic approach. It is widely used by licensed clinicians and is supported by extensive research as an evidence-based treatment for trauma. To ensure the highest quality of care, I highly recommend working with a Certified EMDR Therapist who is trained to deliver EMDR therapy with fidelity. This is exactly what we offer at Salty Counseling.

Many clients who’ve completed EMDR therapy report feeling more at ease, present, and in control. They share that intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety that once overwhelmed them are significantly reduced and, in many cases, completely resolved. This shift allows them to move through life with more peace and clarity. Clients consistently highlight how EMDR has effectively reduced trauma-related symptoms, improved emotional well-being, and helped them regain confidence in managing their emotions and relationships.

With my extensive training and experience in EMDR therapy, you can feel confident that you're in capable and compassionate hands. I am dedicated to helping you process your trauma and achieve lasting relief—as many others have through this highly effective and transformative approach.

As an EMDR specialist with years of trauma-informed therapy experience, I offer a compassionate, client-centered approach tailored to your unique needs. I work at your pace to ensure you always feel safe, supported, and empowered throughout the healing process. Together, we will create a trusting and collaborative environment where you can address and resolve trauma effectively.

I tailor each session to address your unique challenges and goals, using my expertise in EMDR to support your path toward emotional healing. With my experience and commitment to your well-being, I’m here to help you navigate your journey toward lasting relief and a more peaceful life.

As mentioned, I provide EMDR therapy to fidelity—meaning it is delivered exactly as it was researched and developed, following the full 8-phase protocol outlined by Francine Shapiro. Unfortunately, many therapists have moved away from this structured approach, which can limit the therapy’s effectiveness. When EMDR is not conducted in its entirety, it may fail to fully resolve the memory networks associated with trauma. My goal is to ensure you receive the full benefit of this powerful, evidence-based treatment.

It’s time to stop letting trauma control your life. You deserve to feel free from the emotional burden of past experiences and regain a sense of peace and control. By scheduling a free 20-minute consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your concerns and learn how EMDR therapy can help you. This consultation is a no-pressure, compassionate space where we can explore the best approach to address your unique challenges and create a tailored plan for your emotional well-being.