Some experiences stay with us long after we wish they would. You may understand that something happened in the past, but still find yourself reacting to it—through anxiety, avoidance, self-doubt, difficult relationship patterns, or emotions that feel stronger than the situation calls for.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy that can help you process difficult experiences so they have less impact on how you feel and respond in the present.
What Is EMDR?
EMDR is different from traditional talk therapy. You don't necessarily have to talk through every detail of an experience or find the perfect words to explain what happened.
Instead, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, while you focus on parts of a distressing experience. This can help your brain process memories, emotions, beliefs, and physical reactions that still feel unresolved.
EMDR is commonly used for trauma and PTSD, but you don't need to have a PTSD diagnosis—or one major traumatic event—for EMDR to be helpful.
You may also want to read more about how EMDR can help you let go of the past and feel more present in your life.
When Can EMDR Be Helpful?
I often consider EMDR when someone feels stuck despite having a good intellectual understanding of what happened.
It may be helpful with:
Trauma or difficult past experiences
PTSD or trauma-related symptoms
Distressing memories
Anxiety or fear connected to past experiences
Shame, guilt, or self-blame
Negative beliefs about yourself
Relationship patterns connected to earlier experiences
Emotional reactions that feel out of proportion to what's happening now
Sometimes you know exactly what experience you want to work on. Other times, you simply know that something from the past is still affecting you.
What Is EMDR Therapy Like?
EMDR isn't about forcing you to relive something before you're ready. Before we begin processing difficult memories, we'll talk about what you're experiencing and make sure you have ways to manage distress that may come up.
You remain in control throughout the process. We work at a pace that makes sense for you, and you don't have to share every detail of an experience.
I also don't use EMDR in isolation just because someone comes to me for EMDR. Depending on what you're dealing with, I may incorporate other approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Is EMDR Right for You?
If something from your past continues to affect how you feel, think, or respond today, we can talk about whether EMDR might be helpful. I offer EMDR therapy in Denver as well as telehealth throughout Colorado.
I also offer a free 20-minute phone consultation so we can talk about what you're looking for and whether I may be a good fit.