Past memories that contribute to current symptoms
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured therapy designed to help individuals process traumatic memories. During EMDR, the patient briefly focuses on distressing memories while experiencing bilateral stimulation—commonly side-to-side eye movements, sounds, or tactile signals. This process helps reduce the intensity, vividness, and emotional impact of traumatic experiences. EMDR is a well-researched and effective therapy for trauma and PTSD, and we proudly offer EMDR therapy with trained therapists in Northern Virginia.
Once you and your EMDR therapist agree that EMDR is appropriate, initial sessions focus on identifying the issues you want to address and strengthening your ability to manage distressing emotions.
In later phases, you will concentrate on a specific traumatic event. The therapist will guide you to notice negative images, beliefs, emotions, and bodily sensations related to the event, as well as positive beliefs reflecting resolution or healing. While focusing on the event, the therapist will guide sets of eye movements, sounds, or tactile stimulation. You may notice shifts in images, thoughts, or feelings during the process.
You remain in control throughout therapy and can pause or stop the session at any time. These sets of bilateral stimulation are repeated until the memory becomes less distressing. EMDR can be used as part of regular talk therapy, alongside another therapy, or as a standalone treatment.
A typical EMDR session lasts about 60 minutes. Processing a single traumatic experience may take one or multiple sessions, depending on the complexity of the memory. The therapy follows a three-pronged protocol addressing:
Past memories that contribute to current symptoms
Present triggers or disturbances
Future coping and adaptive actions
Although EMDR can sometimes produce faster results than other therapies, the pace is individualized, based on each client’s needs and history.
In EMDR, “processing” is not simply talking about the trauma. It involves creating a learning state that allows your brain to appropriately store and integrate the memory. Useful insights and emotions are retained to guide positive behavior, while unhelpful beliefs, emotions, and physical sensations are released. The goal is to leave you with healthier emotions, perspectives, and behaviors that support long-term well-being.
EMDR is not suitable for everyone. A qualified mental health professional will evaluate your specific needs, history, and current diagnoses to determine if EMDR is an appropriate treatment for you.