What is EMDR?

The brain can be viewed as a filing cabinet where each memory is organized under tabs of related themes, such as, "I succeeded, I failed, I embarrassed myself, or I am loved."

However, when a memory is distressing or doesn't match how we want to see ourselves, such as feeling incompetent, helpless, or cruel, it occasionally fails to find its proper location in the system. Instead, it remains like an unresolved pile of paperwork on top of your desk, persistently nagging due to its unresolved nature.


When this lingering issue is triggered, we find ourselves stuck in themes of, "I'm not good enough, I am alone, or I do not trust my judgement," and we react with emotional outbursts or strong anxiety that feels unavoidable.


EMDR can be utilized with these unsettled concerns, aiding the brain's natural healing process by effectively processing and organizing these unresolved memories. Once the source of distress has been alleviated, our behaviors decrease in reactivity for current and future stressors and we are able to live healthier, happier lives.

The goal of EMDR therapy is trait change so that the negative emotions and sensations will no longer habitually arise.

Francine Shapiro, Florence W. Kaslow & Louise Maxfield

Is EMDR Right For ME?

Most people associate trauma with harrowing events, like war or a natural disaster.

However, evidence now concludes that repeated exposure to little t traumas can cause more emotional harm than exposure to a single big T traumatic event. Little t traumas are everyday disturbances, such as becoming upset, anxious, or feeling down.

Invalidating the impact of these little t traumas can create adverse coping behaviors, such as bottling up emotions, feeling anxiety, or attempting to manage symptoms without support and feeling isolated. If you have had any little t or big T trauma, EMDR could be a great fit for you.


EMDR can decrease the feelings of depression, anxiety, low self esteem, emotional dysregulation, symptoms of OCD, PTSD, and ADHD. Not only can EMDR improve your quality of life, it can also be absorbed faster, stay longer, and be more impactful than traditional talk therapy. Together we can evaluate if EMDR is a good fit to alleviate the symptoms that cause distress in your life.