EMDR Therapy: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a therapy method designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic memories, PTSD, anxiety, and other distressing experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (e.g., eye movements, taps, or sounds) to help the brain reprocess unresolved memories

Our Approach to EMDR Therapy

While EMDR traditionally follows an 8-phase protocol, our practice integrates it with:

• Trauma-informed care (safety and pacing).
• Attachment-focused techniques (for relational trauma).
• Somatic awareness (body-based healing)

We adapt EMDR for clients who struggle with verbal expression or complex trauma.

FAQs about EMDR Therapy

Is EMDR Just Hypnosis or Exposure Therapy?

No. Unlike exposure therapy (which relives trauma), EMDR helps the brain reprocess memories so they lose their emotional charge. It’s also not hypnosis—clients remain fully conscious and in control.

What Issues Can EMDR Address?

• Adults & Teens: PTSD, anxiety, phobias, grief, panic attacks
• Children: Trauma (e.g., abuse, accidents), school-related stress
• Neurodiverse Clients: Adapted for autism or sensory sensitivities

How Does EMDR Work?

1. Bilateral Stimulation: Eye movements/taps activate the brain’s natural healing
2. Memory Reprocessing: Traumatic memories lose intensity and integrate adaptively
3. New Insights: Clients often gain clarity and emotional relief

What Does the Therapist Do?

• Guides the Process: Structures sessions to avoid overwhelm
• Ensures Safety: Uses grounding techniques if distress arises
• Avoids Interpretation: Clients lead with their own insights

How Many Sessions Are Needed?

• Short-Term: 6–12 sessions for single-event trauma
• Long-Term: Months for complex trauma (e.g., childhood abuse)
• Duration: 60–90 minutes/session (includes preparation/debriefing)

Limitations of EMDR

• Not Suitable For: Active psychosis, severe dissociation without stabilization
• Client Considerations: Some clients prefer verbal therapies over eye movements

How to Measure Progress?

• Reduced emotional distress when recalling memories
• Improved sleep, mood, and daily functioning
• Shifts in self-beliefs (e.g., “I am safe now”)

Can EMDR Be Combined with Other Therapies?

Yes! We often pair EMDR with:

• Inner child work (for developmental trauma)
• ACT (to build psychological flexibility)
  

Approaches