EMDR Therapy
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy
EMDR is a type of therapy that helps people deal with painful memories. It uses Dual Attention Stimulus, where you focus on a memory while paying attention to something that moves back and forth, like a therapist’s hand, sounds, or tapping. This helps your brain process the memory, so it doesn’t feel as upsetting over time.
EMDR Therapy was discovered in the late 1980’s by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D. where she made a connection between eye movement and persistent upsetting memories. This discovery led to the development of EMDR, which is a structured therapy that encourages the patient to briefly focus on the trauma memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements), which is associated with a reduction in the vividness and emotion associated with the trauma memories. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from trauma and PTSD symptoms.
Interested in EMDR Therapy?
Wondering if EMDR could support your healing journey or have questions about how it works? Whether you're new to trauma therapy or seeking more information about sessions at Realign, we’re here to help. Fill out the form and we will reach out to connect with you.
What is it good for?
Effective for Trauma – Helps people heal from PTSD, anxiety, and other trauma-related issues.
Works Quickly – Many people see improvements faster than with talk therapy alone.
Reduces Emotional Pain – Helps process painful memories so they feel less upsetting over time.
No Need to Talk in Detail – Unlike some therapies, you don’t have to discuss every detail of the trauma.
Long-Lasting Results – Once a memory is fully processed, relief tends to be permanent.
Helps with Other Issues – Can also be useful for phobias, depression, and stress.
Uses Natural Brain Healing – Works with the brain’s natural ability to process and heal from difficult experiences.
Non-Invasive – No medication is required, It can use eye movements, sounds, or gentle tapping to help your brain process memories.
What does treatment look like?
In an EMDR session, the client sits comfortably while the therapist guides them through bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, tapping, or auditory cues, to help reprocess distressing memories. The therapist first identifies specific traumatic memories and negative beliefs, then supports the client in replacing them with positive, empowering beliefs. EMDR can be done in person in the office or virtually, allowing clients to experience the benefits from the comfort of their home. Virtual EMDR sessions provide the same therapeutic impact as in-person sessions by helping the client feel relief from distressing memories in a safe and controlled environment. Many clients report feeling a sense of emotional release, reduced anxiety, and a newfound sense of calm.
EMDR can be seamlessly integrated with other healing modalities like sound therapy, hypnotherapy, Internal Family Systems, and more. These approaches complement one another to help ease emotional processing, minimize discomfort, and support a deeper, more effective healing journey. Many clients find that incorporating EMDR into a holistic approach enhances their overall well-being while allowing for greater clarity, emotional resilience, and lasting transformation. It’s also great for improving relationships, shifting limiting beliefs, overcoming fears, and creating positive change in different areas of life.
EMDR Intensives vs. One-Hour Sessions
EMDR Intensives
A focused, retreat-like approach to healing
EMDR Intensives are extended therapy sessions designed to help you process and heal more efficiently than weekly sessions allow. Working in half-day or multi-day formats, we stay with the work longer, reducing the interruptions that can slow progress.
Who might benefit from intensives:
You want to target a specific issue such as trauma, grief, anxiety, or performance challenges.
You have limited time in your weekly schedule or are traveling for care.
You’ve already done therapy and feel ready for accelerated progress.
Weekly sessions are not working for you.
What’s included and Costs:
Pre-Intensive Consultation Session (90 minutes): $300
Extended EMDR Reprocessing: 2-3 hour sessions ($300/hour).
Integration & Aftercare Plan: Personalized tools and strategies for ongoing support.
Benefits of Intensives:
Accelerated Results: Accomplish months of traditional EMDR therapy in just 2-6 hours. Research shows intensive trauma therapy enables faster symptom reduction with better results than weekly sessions.
Focused healing time without weekly stop-start.
Momentum that can accelerate progress.
One-Hour EMDR Sessions
Steady, weekly progress at your own pace
Standard 53–60 minute sessions provide consistent support and gradual progress. This option is best if you want a predictable rhythm, time to practice between sessions, and space to explore multiple themes over time.
Who might benefit from weekly sessions:
You’re new to EMDR and prefer to move gradually.
You want weekly continuity and support.
You’re addressing several ongoing concerns.
What to expect in weekly sessions:
Assessment and goal-setting.
Grounding and preparation skills.
EMDR reprocessing in smaller increments.
Ongoing integration tools to support daily life.
Benefits of weekly sessions:
Gentle pacing and predictable routine.
Time to process and apply new skills between sessions.
Flexibility to adapt as new themes arise.
Insurance covered
Which Option Is Right for Me?
Choose an Intensive if you’re looking for focused progress in a shorter timeframe or if weekly therapy doesn’t fit your schedule.
Choose One-Hour Sessions if you prefer steady, ongoing support at a slower pace.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling called to begin EMDR therapy, we're here to walk alongside you. Click the button below to schedule your first session or to ask any final questions before booking. Healing starts with one brave step—and we're honored to support you in taking it.
FAQs
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EMDR is ideal if you struggle with distressing memories, anxiety, or emotional triggers that feel stuck or overwhelming. If you’ve tried traditional therapy and still feel unresolved pain, EMDR might be a great option. The best way to find out is to consult with a trained EMDR therapist.
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EMDR is commonly used for PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) but is also highly effective for:
Anxiety & panic attacks
Depression
Phobias & fears
Grief & loss
Childhood trauma
Chronic pain
Low self-esteem
Stress and performance anxiety
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People experience EMDR differently. Some feel a sense of emotional release, like a weight being lifted. Others may feel temporary emotional discomfort as memories surface, but this usually fades as the session progresses. Most clients report feeling calmer, lighter, and more at peace after treatment.
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The number of sessions varies. Some people feel relief in just a few sessions, while others with more complex trauma may need several months of treatment. On average, EMDR treatment lasts 6 to 12 sessions, but your therapist will personalize the approach based on your needs.
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No! While EMDR is well-known for treating trauma and PTSD, it is also effective for general anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship struggles, and even performance anxiety in work, sports, or creative fields.
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Yes, EMDR is an evidence-based therapy with decades of research supporting its effectiveness and safety. Some people may feel temporary emotional discomfort, but the therapist ensures that you are grounded and supported throughout the process.
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Not necessarily. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR does not require you to describe the traumatic event in detail. Instead, you focus on the emotions and sensations linked to the memory while the brain processes and resolves it.
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Yes! EMDR can be effectively done via teletherapy, using screen-based tools or self-tapping techniques. Many clients find virtual EMDR just as effective as in-person sessions, allowing them to heal from the comfort of their home.
Why do we practice EMDR?
At Realign, we are passionate about the profound healing that EMDR provides. With five therapists trained through the Institute of Creative Mindfulness and other leading organizations, we have not only experienced its benefits firsthand but have also witnessed its incredible impact on our clients. EMDR allows us to help individuals break free from past trauma, find emotional balance, and move forward with greater confidence. We are dedicated to offering therapies that promote deep healing and long-term well-being.
Contact us today to get started on your healing journey!
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