EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured therapy for processing traumatic experiences and the negative emotions attached to them. It was developed in the 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro.

Besides trauma, EMDR is used for anxiety, depression, addiction and performance concerns.

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Who it's for

People living with the effects of trauma, or with anxiety, depression or addictive behaviors tied to painful experiences. Athletes and performers also use EMDR to work on performance anxiety and confidence.

Common concerns

  • Trauma and post-traumatic stress (PTSD)
  • Social anxiety, panic and phobias
  • Depression linked to past experiences
  • Addictive behaviors rooted in trauma
  • Performance anxiety

What to expect

EMDR follows eight phases, beginning with an assessment and ending with closure.

During processing, your therapist guides you through sets of eye movements, sounds or taps while you focus on a specific target, such as a distressing memory or a negative belief. Your therapist then helps you process and reframe it.

How we work

EMDR is based on the idea that traumatic experiences can become "stuck" in the brain. It is thought to work by engaging the brain's own information-processing system, so distressing memories can be reprocessed and fitted into a more adaptive story.

EMDR can be part of weekly therapy, alongside other approaches, or done in a concentrated block as an EMDR Intensive.

Therapists who offer EMDR

A therapist on the Waitlist isn't taking new clients right now. You can still choose them in your consultation request.

  • Stevie Cotet

    PhD, LPC-S, CSAT-S, CCTP

    Works with couples and individuals facing betrayal, compulsive sexual behavior and sexual concerns. Author of the Relational Empathy Assessment (REA). Direct, collaborative and accepting.

    Waitlist

  • Moe Hamdan

    LPC Associate, MS, NCC, CCTP-II Supervised by Stevie Cotet

    Works with individuals, couples and adolescents facing compulsive sexual behavior, betrayal and trauma, emotional dysregulation and addiction. Intentionally direct, deliberate and honest.

    Accepting

  • Emma Watts

    LPC Associate, MS, CSAT Candidate Supervised by Stevie Cotet

    Works with individuals and couples facing relationship concerns, sex addiction and its impact on partners, and trauma. Compassionate yet direct, creative and nonjudgmental.

    Accepting

Common questions

Is EMDR part of trauma therapy?

Often, yes. It is one of several approaches we combine in trauma therapy.

Read about Trauma Therapy

Can I do EMDR in a focused block instead of weekly sessions?

Yes. EMDR Intensives run from a half day to four days.

Read about EMDR Intensives

Start with a free consultation

Send a consultation request and we'll get back to you to arrange a free 10–⁠15 minute phone call with a therapist. It's a chance to ask questions and see if we're a good fit.

Request a Consultation

Or call 469-505-3416