EMDR: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
What is EMDR?
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals process traumatic or emotionally distressing experiences. Sometimes painful experiences are not fully processed by the brain and nervous system, causing memories, emotions, and physical reactions to feel emotionally “stuck.” When this happens, distress can continue long after the experience has passed.
- EMDR helps the brain and nervous system reprocess painful experiences so they feel less overwhelming. Using guided bilateral stimulation, EMDR supports the brain’s natural healing process and may reduce symptoms related to trauma, grief, anxiety, and emotional distress. EMDR can also help develop healthier, more adaptive beliefs about oneself and life experiences.
- EMDR does not require individuals to describe painful experiences in detail in order for healing to occur. Therapy is approached thoughtfully and collaboratively, creating a safe and supportive space for healing and emotional restoration.
EMDR Therapy for Loss and Grief
Loss and grief can feel overwhelming, especially after sudden, traumatic, or deeply life-changing loss. While grief is a natural response to loss, some individuals remain emotionally stuck in painful memories, anxiety, guilt, emotional numbness, or ongoing distress that does not ease with time.
Research suggests EMDR can be especially helpful for trauma and prolonged grief. EMDR may help reduce intrusive memories, emotional overwhelm, guilt, anxiety, and distress connected to reminders of the loss.
Healing does not mean forgetting. EMDR therapy can help individuals process painful experiences while remaining connected to the love and memories they carry forward.
EMDR + Grief Research
This was the first published study introducing EMDR and demonstrating significant reduction in distress associated with traumatic memories.
- Shapiro, F. (1989).
Efficacy of the Eye Movement Desensitization Procedure in the Treatment of Traumatic Memories.
Journal of Traumatic Stress, 2(2), 199–223.
Additional Research:
- Sprang, G. (2001).
The use of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in the treatment of traumatic grief.
Stress, Trauma, and Crisis, 4(3), 209–225. - Meysner, L., Cotter, P., & Lee, C. W. (2016).
Evaluating the efficacy of EMDR with grieving individuals: A randomized control trial.
Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 10(4), 208–223.
FAQ's
Do You Work With Insurance Companies?
I do not work directly with insurance companies, which allows me to provide more personalized and flexible care, including specialized services such as EMDR intensives and extended sessions. I can provide a "superbill" for clients seeking possible out-of-network reimbursement through their insurance provider; however, reimbursement is not guaranteed.
Do You Offer Therapy online?
Yes, I offer online therapy services. Research has shown that telehealth therapy is often just as effective as in-person therapy for concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. Many clients also value the comfort, flexibility, and convenience of attending sessions from their own home.
Do I have to give up my Primary therapist?
EMDR intensives can be offered as an adjunctive service in collaboration with a client’s primary therapist. This approach allows clients to engage in focused EMDR work while continuing ongoing therapy with their established provider. I will collaborate in treatment planning and aftercare.
Can you see me virtually if I am out of state?
I am licensed to provide in-person therapy in Virginia and Florida. Through PSYPACT authorization, I am also able to provide telehealth services to clients in participating PSYPACT states outside of Virginia. Click HERE for a map of eligible states that are part of PSYPACT.
How do I know EMDR Intensive therapy is right for me? I always begin with a consultation to assess your history and current readiness to begin intensive EMDR. This assessment will inform if an intensive is a good fit or another type of therapy approach.