Evidence-based therapy for lasting recovery from trauma and distressing memories
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy approach developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro. Originally designed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR helps people heal from the emotional distress caused by disturbing life experiences.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses less on detailed discussion of the trauma and more on helping the brain reprocess the memory so that it no longer feels emotionally overwhelming.
Transform Traumatic Memories
Accelerate Natural Healing
Restore Emotional Balance
When a distressing or traumatic event occurs, the brain’s natural way of processing information can become “stuck,” causing intense emotional and physical reactions long after the event is over. EMDR helps “unstick” these memories and allows the brain to process them properly.
During EMDR sessions, clients are guided to focus briefly on the traumatic memory while also engaging in bilateral stimulation (such as side-to-side eye movements, taps, or sounds). This process helps the brain make new connections and reprocess the memory in a way that feels less emotionally charged or threatening.
Over time, the memory may still be remembered, but it no longer causes the same emotional or physical distress.
EMDR has been shown to be effective for a variety of mental health concerns, particularly those related to trauma. Common issues it may help with include:
EMDR can/may lead to faster symptom relief compared to some traditional therapies and often helps people feel more empowered, calm, and in control.
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate this alone. At Lifebridge Psychotherapy, we’re committed to making your experience as comfortable and supportive as possible.
EMDR is a structured 8-phase therapy that unfolds in stages:
Your therapist gathers background info and selects target memories.
You learn grounding and self-regulation tools for emotional safety.
Together, you identify the memory’s key components: image, emotion, body sensation, and belief.
You recall the memory while using bilateral stimulation to reduce emotional intensity.
Positive, realistic beliefs replace negative ones linked to the memory.
You check your body for any lingering distress.
The session ends with grounding to ensure emotional stability.
Progress is reviewed in later sessions to guide next steps.
Many clients notice improvement after just a few sessions.
No, but it will reduce their emotional intensity and impact.
You control the process and can stop anytime. We’ll help you feel safe.
Yes, virtual EMDR has been proven effective and is available.
EMDR is a powerful and efficient approach for healing emotional wounds and trauma. By helping the brain reprocess painful memories in a safe and structured way, clients can reduce distress, gain insight, and move forward with greater peace and clarity.
Whether you’re struggling with PTSD, anxiety, or the lingering effects of difficult past experiences, EMDR offers a research-backed path toward healing and resilience.
