EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps the brain process distressing or traumatic experiences that may continue to affect how you feel, think, or respond in the present. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR does not require you to repeatedly describe or analyze every detail of a difficult experience.

During EMDR, you briefly focus on aspects of a distressing memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or alternating taps or sounds. This process is thought to help the brain reprocess the memory so that it becomes less emotionally and physically distressing. The goal is not to erase the memory, but to help you remember what happened without feeling overwhelmed by it.

As the memory is reprocessed, the associated emotions, physical sensations, and negative beliefs may become less intense, while more adaptive and positive perspectives can emerge. EMDR can be helpful for trauma and other distressing experiences, as well as anxiety, depression, grief, and other concerns.

EMDR is a collaborative process, and treatment is always paced according to your individual needs and readiness.

No. EMDR is not hypnosis. You remain awake, aware, and in control throughout the session. You are able to stop the process at any time and communicate with your therapist throughout the session.

Although EMDR may involve focusing your attention in a particular way, you remain connected to the present moment and aware of your surroundings. The process is collaborative, and you and your therapist work together at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you.

EMDR may be a good fit if you are experiencing distress related to traumatic or difficult experiences that continue to affect your emotions, thoughts, relationships, or daily life. It can be helpful for a range of concerns, including trauma, anxiety, grief, depression, and experiences that continue to feel emotionally “stuck.”

You do not need to know exactly which experiences are contributing to your current difficulties before starting therapy. Part of the process is identifying the experiences, beliefs, emotions, and patterns that may be maintaining your distress.

EMDR is not the right approach for everyone or for every situation. During the initial sessions, we will discuss your history, current concerns, goals, and readiness for EMDR and determine together whether it is an appropriate approach for you. If another therapeutic approach would better meet your needs, we can discuss those options as well.

ICognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented approach that focuses on the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. CBT helps you identify unhelpful patterns of thinking and develop healthier ways of responding to difficult situations. It often includes learning practical skills that you can use between sessions to manage anxiety, improve mood, and navigate everyday challenges.

EMDR and CBT can both help you create meaningful change, but they approach that change differently. CBT primarily focuses on identifying and changing current thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that may be contributing to distress. EMDR focuses on helping the brain reprocess distressing experiences that may continue to influence your emotions, beliefs, physical sensations, or reactions in the present.

The two approaches can also complement each other. EMDR is the primary approach I use in my practice, and I may incorporate CBT strategies when appropriate to support your progress and complement the EMDR process.

The length of EMDR therapy varies from person to person. Some clients experience meaningful changes within a relatively short period, while others may benefit from a longer course of treatment, particularly when addressing multiple or complex experiences.

EMDR is a structured, phased approach, and treatment does not begin with trauma processing right away. We first take time to understand your history, identify treatment goals, and develop the skills needed to feel grounded and emotionally prepared. Once you are ready, the pace and focus of EMDR processing are tailored to your individual needs.

Rather than focusing on a specific number of sessions, we will regularly assess your progress and adjust treatment as needed. My goal is to provide enough time and support for meaningful, lasting change while moving at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you.

Yes. I work with teenagers and understand that finding a therapy approach that feels comfortable and engaging can be especially important during adolescence.

EMDR may be a good fit for some teenagers because it is not a traditional “talk therapy” approach. Teens do not always want to spend an entire session talking about their feelings or repeatedly discussing difficult experiences. EMDR provides a different way to work through distressing experiences that can feel more approachable and less dependent on putting everything into words.

At the same time, therapy is individualized to each teenager. We will consider their concerns, goals, developmental needs, and readiness when determining how EMDR and CBT strategies can best be used. My goal is to create a supportive environment where teenagers feel respected, heard, and comfortable participating in their own treatment.