EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can be a powerful tool for addressing persistent patterns that haven't fully resolved through traditional talk therapy. I offer EMDR as a complementary approach, particularly for individuals who are already engaged in therapeutic work and finding themselves "stuck" despite gaining valuable insights.
While EMDR was initially developed for treating major trauma, research has shown it to be effective for addressing what we call "small-t" trauma – those everyday experiences, particularly from childhood, that may seem minor but can overwhelm our nervous system's capacity to cope. These experiences often create patterns that persist into adulthood, affecting our relationships, self-image, and emotional responses.
EMDR can be particularly valuable when:
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You've made progress in therapy but find certain emotional patterns remain stubbornly in place
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You understand the origins of your challenges intellectually, but still feel emotionally triggered
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Your nervous system seems to maintain old response patterns despite your conscious work to change them
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You're experiencing persistent emotional reactions that feel disproportionate to present situations
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You're working through childhood experiences that continue to impact your adult life
I offer EMDR primarily to clients who are already engaged in therapy (whether with me or another therapist), have developed good self-awareness and coping skills, and/or are explicitly seeking EMDR to address particular patterns they've identified in their lives.
During EMDR sessions, we work with specific memories or triggers while engaging in bilateral stimulation – a gentle process of alternating left-right movement. In my practice, this typically involves tapping alternately on your knees while focusing on the target experience and following my guidance. This rhythmic bilateral movement appears to help the brain process stuck experiences and emotions more effectively.
The process is collaborative and controlled – you remain fully aware and in charge throughout the session. We work at a pace that feels manageable for you, and you can pause the process at any time. Many people find that this approach allows them to process difficult memories or triggers with less distress than traditional talk therapy alone.
When used within an established therapeutic relationship or as part of a broader healing journey, EMDR can help process stuck emotional patterns that haven't fully responded to talk therapy, release old nervous system responses that no longer serve you, create new neural pathways for responding to triggering situations, bridge the gap between intellectual understanding and emotional experience, and transform persistent patterns that originated in early life experiences.
EMDR can be most beneficial when you:
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Have a foundation of self-awareness and emotional regulation skills
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Can identify specific patterns or responses you'd like to address
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Are committed to the process of healing and growth
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Have support systems in place
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Are not currently dealing with acute major trauma or crisis
If you're interested in exploring whether EMDR might be helpful for you, contact me to schedule a consultation.