Fees & FAQs

“EMDR is like a gentle hand guiding your mind through the storm of past pain, helping you find calm shores where the memories no longer drown you.” – Francine Shapiro

EMDR, which stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a revolutionary form of psychotherapy that was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It is based on the idea that traumatic experiences, distressing memories, and unresolved issues can become “stuck” in the brain, leading to a range of psychological symptoms. EMDR therapy helps individuals process these memories and experiences, allowing the brain to heal naturally and move towards a state of emotional balance.

EMDR therapy is recognized by organizations like the American Psychological Association and the World Health Organization as an effective evidence-based treatment. It’s unique because it doesn’t require extensive verbal recounting of trauma, making it appealing to those who find talking about their experiences difficult. EMDR’s goal is not to erase memories but to reduce their emotional charge, enabling individuals to recall events without overwhelming distress. Sessions offer a blend of cognitive, emotional, and somatic work that sets it apart from other therapeutic approaches.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy typically involves weekly sessions with the total number of sessions varying based on individual needs. 

The core of EMDR therapy revolves around a structured eight-phase approach, which includes:

1. History-taking and treatment planning: The therapist works with the client to understand their history, identify target issues, and develop a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs.

2. Preparation: The therapist prepares the client for EMDR by explaining the process and teaching grounding and relaxation techniques to ensure they are ready to face distressing memories safely.

3. Assessment: Together, the therapist and client identify specific distressing memories and associated negative beliefs and emotions that will be targeted during EMDR sessions.

4. Desensitization: During this phase, the therapist uses bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movements or tactile sensations, to help the client process the distressing memories and associated emotions. This bilateral stimulation aids in the reprocessing of these memories, allowing the client to integrate them into their overall life narrative.

5. Installation: Positive beliefs and emotions are cultivated and strengthened, helping the client replace negative self-perceptions and reactions with healthier ones.

6. Body scan: The therapist and client work to identify and release any remaining physical tension or distress associated with the targeted memories.

7. Closure: The client is guided to reach a state of stability before ending the session, ensuring that they feel grounded and safe.

8. Reevaluation: In subsequent sessions, the therapist and client assess the progress made and address any lingering issues or concerns.

For a single traumatic event, it may take as little as three to six sessions.  More complex or long-term trauma usually requires more time in the preparation phase to build resources, outline targets throughout lifespan, and identify any blocking beliefs or protectors.

I often work with clients coming from severe, complex trauma and this can take years to work through all the lasting effects on mind, body, and spirit. I offer EMDR intensives and Mind/Body Intensives in order to clear out more trauma in a shorter time. 

Yes, I offer a limited number of appointments on a sliding scale. Please reach out to me to discuss this if cost is a concern. 

Sessions are typically 50 minutes on a weekly basis, especially in the beginning. Intensives are scheduled over a week or two and include 2-3 hour sessions per day.