What is EMDR?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a proven approach to help heal emotional distress caused by traumatic memories. It works through a structured 8-phase process..

The 8 Phases of EMDR Therapy

Phase 1: History & Planning
We start by understanding your past and what’s troubling you now. Together, we identify the memories to work on and make a clear treatment plan.

Phase 2: Preparation
You’ll learn how EMDR works and practice skills to manage difficult emotions. We also create a “safe place” in your mind for comfort during therapy.

Phase 3: Assessment
We focus on one target memory. You’ll notice the images, feelings, and beliefs connected to it, both negative and the positive beliefs you want to feel instead.

Phase 4: Desensitization
This is the main part where you follow gentle eye movements, taps, or sounds while thinking about the memory. Your brain naturally works through the distress until it feels less upsetting.

Phase 5: Installation
Now we strengthen the positive belief you want to have about yourself, helping you truly believe it deep inside.

Phase 6: Body Scan
You check your body for any leftover tension or discomfort tied to the memory. If any remain, we process those too.

Phase 7: Closure
Each session ends with grounding techniques so you feel calm and stable before leaving. You’ll also get tips for self-care between sessions.

Phase 8: Re-evaluation
At the start of each new session, we review your progress and decide if we continue with the same memory or focus on a new one.

If you want to heal from past pain and move toward emotional freedom, EMDR may be a good fit.