EMDR
(Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
EMDR Therapy for Trauma, Anxiety, and Emotional Healing
Have you ever felt stuck in memories you wish you could forget?
Do certain sights, sounds, or situations make your body react before your mind can catch up?
Do you feel stuck in fear, anxiety, or strong emotions you can’t explain?
Are you living with chronic pain, chronic illness, or an autoimmune condition and feel like stress or emotions make your symptoms worse?
Do you live with chronic pain, chronic illness, or an autoimmune condition and feel like your body is constantly on high alert, no matter how much rest you get?
If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not broken, and you’re not alone. These experiences are often signs that the nervous system has been overwhelmed and is still responding as if danger is present. EMDR therapy helps the brain and body process what hasn’t fully healed yet, so you can begin to feel calmer, safer, and more present in your daily life.
How Trauma Affects the Nervous System and the Body
Trauma doesn’t only live in the mind, it also lives in the body. When the nervous system stays in survival mode for too long, it can contribute to anxiety, emotional overwhelm, chronic pain, fatigue, depression, and flare-ups of chronic or autoimmune conditions. Even when medical care is ongoing, unresolved trauma can keep the body feeling tense, unsafe, or constantly on edge.
EMDR therapy works by helping the nervous system process and release stored stress and trauma, allowing the body to move out of “high alert” and into a more regulated, balanced state. During EMDR, the original memory is accessed, the intensity of the emotions decrease and new neural connections are created, which allows the brain and nervous system to put away these memories.
What EMDR Therapy Is
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help people process and heal from distressing or traumatic experiences. When something overwhelming happens, the brain may not fully process the experience. As a result, memories, emotions, and physical sensations can feel “stuck,” continuing to affect you long after the event has passed.
EMDR helps the brain reprocess these experiences so they no longer feel as intense or overwhelming. You may still remember what happened, but it no longer carries the same emotional or physical charge.
How EMDR Therapy Works
EMDR therapy uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds, to support the brain’s natural ability to heal. While focusing on a distressing memory, the bilateral stimulation helps the brain connect that memory with healthier, more adaptive information.
What EMDR Helps You Do
Reduce emotional pain linked to memories
Replace negative beliefs with healthier ones
Develop a greater sense of calm and safety in the body
After EMDR, the memory may still be there, but it usually feels less intense and no longer takes over your emotions.
What to Expect in an EMDR Session
EMDR sessions usually last 60–90 minutes. Your therapist will take time to understand your history, current concerns, and goals for therapy. Together, you’ll identify which memories or experiences to work on.
EMDR therapy follows eight structured phases.
The Eight Phases of EMDR Therapy
History-Taking – Understanding past experiences and current challenges
Preparation - Learning grounding and coping skills
Assessment –Identifying distressing memories and beliefs
Desensitization – Process memories with bilateral stimulation
Installation – Strengthen positive beliefs
Body Scan – Release leftover tension
Closure – End sessions feeling stable
Reevaluation – Check progress and plan next steps
You are always in control. You can pause or stop at any time.
Besides Trauma, What Other Issues Can EMDR Help With?
While EMDR is well known for treating trauma and PTSD, it can also help with concerns connected to stress and nervous system dysregulation, including:
Anxiety and panic attacks
Chronic stress and emotional overwhelm
Depression and mood disorders
Grief and loss
Chronic pain and medical trauma
Chronic illness and autoimmune-related stress
Sleep disturbances
Performance anxiety
Recovery from abuse or neglect
EMDR supports healing by addressing root experiences rather than only managing symptoms.
How Do I Know if EMDR Is Right for Me?
EMDR may be a good fit if you:
Feel triggered by memories, emotions, or body sensations
Notice reactions that feel bigger than the current situation
Feel stuck despite other therapy approaches
Want a structured, evidence-based treatment
An initial assessment helps determine whether EMDR is appropriate and ensures you feel prepared before beginning processing.
How Long Does EMDR Therapy Take?
The length of EMDR therapy depends on your history and goals. There is no one-size-fits-all timeline.
Single-event trauma may take fewer sessions
Complex or long-term trauma may take more time
You and your therapist will work together to create a treatment plan that fits your needs, personal history, and comfort level. EMDR therapy is never rushed, and progress is reviewed regularly to support safe and meaningful healing.
Can EMDR Therapy Align With My Faith?
For many people, faith is an important part of healing. EMDR therapy is a clinical, evidence-based approach that focuses on how the brain processes experiences and does not conflict with Christian beliefs. Many clients view EMDR as one of the tools God has provided to support healing.
We can incorporate prayer, Scripture, and a faith-based perspective into EMDR therapy. For a more thorough discussion of faith-integreated EMDR, please read our blog post “Is It Okay for Christians to use EMDR?”
Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR Therapy
Do I have to talk about my trauma in detail?
No. EMDR does not require sharing every detail out loud.
Is EMDR safe?
Yes. EMDR is widely researched and considered safe and effective when provided by a trained clinician.
Will I lose control during EMDR?
No. You stay aware and in control the entire time.
Can EMDR be done online?
Yes. EMDR can be effective both in-person and online. EMDR can be offered through secure telehealth platforms.
Can EMDR help if I don’t remember everything?
Yes. You do not need clear or complete memories for EMDR to work.
Can I include my faith in EMDR therapy?
Yes, if you want to. Faith integration is always optional.
Can EMDR therapy help with chronic pain or chronic illness?
EMDR may help reduce nervous system stress that contributes to chronic pain and illness symptoms. It supports healing alongside medical care.
Introduction to EMDR Therapy
Discover how EMDR therapy works, what to expect during sessions, and its widespread recognition in the mental health field. EMDR-trained therapists share insights on the process and the positive feedback they've received from clients.
How Do I Get Started With EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy can help you feel more grounded, present, and emotionally balanced. Contact us today to learn more about EMDR and whether your situation would benefit from EMDR.
We offer in-person and online EMDR therapy for individuals in Suwanee, Duluth, Johns Creek, Cumming, Buford, and nearby North Metro Atlanta areas. Our licensed therapists offer both in-person and online EMDR therapy for trauma, anxiety, chronic stress, and emotional overwhelm. If you are looking for EMDR therapy, we are here to help you feel calmer, stronger, and more hopeful as you heal.
