Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed by Francine Shapiro that helps people process distressing experiences that continue to affect their thoughts, emotions, body, relationships, and daily life. EMDR has been extensively researched and is recognized as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as many other trauma-related concerns.
Although EMDR was originally developed to treat trauma, it is also commonly used to address anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, complicated grief, performance anxiety, and other conditions in which unresolved experiences continue to influence present-day functioning.
As an EMDRIA Approved Consultant, I have advanced training in EMDR and extensive experience working with complex trauma, developmental trauma, and dissociation. I have received specialized training in treating dissociative disorders using the work of Dolores Mosquera and integrate this knowledge into treatment when clinically appropriate. In addition to providing therapy, I also offer consultation to therapists pursuing EMDR certification and advanced clinical consultation.
What Is EMDR Like?
EMDR is much more than eye movements. Treatment follows a structured, eight-phase protocol designed to help clients safely process distressing memories while remaining connected to the present. Depending on your needs, bilateral stimulation may involve eye movements, alternating taps, or auditory tones.
During EMDR, clients are not asked to relive traumatic experiences in detail. Instead, the therapy helps the brain reprocess memories that remain emotionally distressing or unresolved. As these memories are integrated, emotional distress often decreases, new perspectives emerge, and many clients notice meaningful changes in how they think, feel, relate to others, and respond to life’s challenges.
An Integrated Approach
For individuals with complex trauma, developmental trauma, or dissociation, EMDR is often most effective when combined with careful preparation and stabilization. Every treatment plan is individualized based on your history, symptoms, goals, and nervous system capacity.
My work integrates EMDR with Somatic Experiencing®, Relational Gestalt Therapy, Yoga Therapy, attachment-focused psychotherapy, and other evidence-informed approaches. This allows treatment to address not only traumatic memories but also the physiological, emotional, and relational patterns that often accompany trauma.
Consultation for Therapists
As an EMDRIA Approved Consultant, I provide consultation for therapists working toward EMDR certification as well as clinicians seeking advanced consultation in the treatment of trauma, complex PTSD, and dissociation.
Learn More About EMDR
If you would like additional information about EMDR therapy, research, or professional standards, the following organizations are excellent resources:
- EMDR International Association (EMDRIA): www.emdria.org.
- EMDR Institute: (www.emdr.com)
