Understanding EMDR Therapy and Trauma Healing

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, often called EMDR therapy, is a trauma informed approach that helps people process experiences that still feel emotionally charged or stuck. Many individuals seek EMDR when talk therapy alone has not fully resolved anxiety, trauma responses, or painful memories that continue to affect daily life.

EMDR is based on the understanding that trauma lives not only in memory, but also in the nervous system. When experiences overwhelm our ability to cope, the brain may store them in a way that keeps the body reacting as if the danger is still present. EMDR helps support the brain and nervous system in completing that process.

What Is EMDR Therapy

EMDR therapy was developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro and is widely used to treat trauma, post traumatic stress, anxiety, and related concerns. Rather than focusing only on talking through events, EMDR works with how memories are held in the brain.

During EMDR sessions, clients briefly bring attention to aspects of a distressing experience while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or tapping. This supports the brain in reprocessing the memory so it feels less intense and no longer drives the same emotional or physical reactions.

EMDR follows a structured and supportive model that prioritizes safety, preparation, and pacing. Time is spent building grounding skills and internal resources before any trauma processing begins.

How EMDR Supports Trauma Recovery

Trauma can show up as anxiety, emotional reactivity, numbness, shame, or a constant sense of being on edge. Even when life feels stable on the surface, the nervous system may still be responding to past experiences.

EMDR helps the brain integrate memories that were stored during moments of overwhelm. As this happens, people often notice that triggers feel less activating, emotions feel more manageable, and their sense of self begins to shift. What once felt overwhelming can start to feel more distant and resolved.

Because EMDR works with implicit memory, it can be effective even when someone does not have clear words for what they went through. This makes it especially helpful for developmental trauma, relational wounds, and experiences that feel hard to explain.

EMDR in My Therapy Practice

In my work, EMDR is offered within a steady and collaborative therapeutic relationship. Processing happens at a pace that feels supportive, not rushed. Clients remain present and in control throughout the process.

EMDR may be used to support concerns such as trauma, anxiety, panic, negative self beliefs, and trauma related patterns connected to relationships or substance use. It is always integrated thoughtfully, with attention to both emotional and nervous system regulation.

Beginning EMDR Therapy

Starting EMDR therapy begins with building a foundation of safety and trust. This includes learning grounding tools, understanding how your nervous system responds to stress, and identifying internal resources. Trauma processing only begins when you feel ready.

Healing is not about reliving the past. It is about helping your system recognize that the danger is no longer happening and allowing more ease, clarity, and choice in the present.

EMDR Therapy in Los Angeles and California

I offer EMDR therapy in person in West Los Angeles and online throughout California. If you are curious whether EMDR might be a good fit for you, I invite you to reach out. We can talk about your goals, answer your questions, and explore what support might feel most helpful.

You do not have to navigate this alone. Support is available, and change is possible.