EMDR

EMDR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based trauma therapy that helps the brain and nervous system process distressing experiences in a way that reduces emotional intensity and lasting symptoms.

EMDR does not require detailed retelling of traumatic events. Instead, it works with how memories are stored in the brain and body, allowing previously “stuck” experiences to be integrated in a more adaptive way.

Many people find EMDR helpful when they feel caught in patterns of emotional reactivity, anxiety, shutdown, or overwhelm that don’t shift through insight alone.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured psychotherapy approach originally developed by Francine Shapiro, PhD. It is widely recognized as an effective treatment for trauma, PTSD, and other conditions involving distressing or overwhelming life experiences.
EMDR is based on the understanding that trauma can disrupt the brain’s natural information-processing system. When this happens, memories may remain unprocessed, continuing to trigger emotional, cognitive, and physiological reactions long after the original event has passed.
EMDR helps restart this natural processing system so memories can be stored in a way that feels more resolved and less intrusive.

How EMDR Supports Trauma Healing

During EMDR therapy, attention is briefly brought to aspects of a distressing memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones.

This process supports the nervous system in integrating the memory without requiring prolonged exposure or detailed verbal recounting.

Over time, clients often notice:

Reduced emotional intensity around past experiences

Fewer triggers and intrusive thoughts

Increased emotional regulation and resilience

Greater clarity and self-compassion

When EMDR May Not Be the Best Starting Point

EMDR is a powerful and effective therapy for many forms of trauma. However, due to the intensity of EMDR processing, it is not always my first recommendation for individuals with complex trauma.
Complex trauma often involves long-standing patterns in the nervous system, attachment wounds, and early experiences that require a slower, more resourcing-focused approach.
When possible, I often recommend beginning complex trauma work with approaches such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY), or other somatic therapies that emphasize stabilization, choice, and nervous system regulation.
EMDR may be introduced later in therapy if and when it feels clinically appropriate and supportive.

EMDR Is More Than “Processing Trauma”

While EMDR is well known for trauma treatment, it can also be helpful for:

Chronic anxiety or emotional overwhelm
Negative self-beliefs rooted in past experiences
Performance blocks or perfectionism

EMDR works not just with events, but with the beliefs, emotions, and nervous system responses that formed around them.

What an EMDR Therapy Session Is Like

EMDR therapy is collaborative and paced carefully. Before any trauma processing begins, time is spent building stabilization skills, nervous system awareness, and a sense of safety and choice.
You are always in control of the process. Sessions are adjusted based on readiness, capacity, and consent.

EMDR may involve:

Focus on memory fragments or body sensations
Periods of bilateral stimulation
Time for grounding, reflection, and integration

There is no requirement to “push through” or relive experiences.

Integrating EMDR With Other Therapy Modalities

EMDR can be used on its own or integrated with other trauma-informed approaches, depending on your needs and goals.

I often weave EMDR alongside modalities such as:

Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY)
Somatic and nervous system–informed therapy

This integrative approach allows therapy to remain flexible, responsive, and attuned to both mind and body.

Training and Clinical Experience

I have completed advanced training in EMDR therapy and bring over 26 years of experience in the mental health field.

My work is informed by neuroscience, trauma research, attachment theory, and somatic approaches to healing. EMDR is offered within a trauma-informed, consent-based framework that prioritizes nervous system safety and client choice.

EMDR Therapy in Minnesota, Colorado, and Wisconsin

EMDR therapy is offered as part of individual therapy services for clients in Minnesota and Colorado, in accordance with licensure and clinical appropriateness.

Sessions are available in person or via secure telehealth, depending on location and treatment needs.

STEP INTO YOUR HEALING JOURNEY

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Pathways to Wellness Minnesota, Ltd.
1409 Willow Street Suite 109
Minneapolis, MN 55403

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