About EMDR
EMDR therapy, developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in 1987, revolutionized mental health treatment with its unique approach to processing trauma.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a research-supported therapy designed to help people heal from distressing or overwhelming experiences. When difficult events occur, the brain sometimes stores these memories in a way that keeps them feeling very present—long after the event has passed.
EMDR helps the brain process these experiences so they no longer carry the same emotional weight. Many people find that memories become less triggering, negative beliefs begin to shift, and they feel more grounded in the present.
At The Next Chapter Counseling Services, EMDR therapy is offered in a supportive and collaborative environment where your pace, safety, and comfort are always prioritized.
Visit our EMDR FAQ page!
What to Expect in EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy follows a structured process designed to help you feel safe and supported while working through difficult experiences. While each person’s therapy journey is unique, EMDR generally includes the following steps:
1. Getting to Know You
We begin by talking about your history, current concerns, and what you hope to gain from therapy. Together we identify areas you would like to work on and determine whether EMDR is a good fit for you.
2. Building Skills and Safety
Before processing difficult memories, we focus on developing tools to help you feel grounded and supported. This may include learning calming strategies, strengthening coping skills, and creating a sense of stability in therapy.
3. Identifying Target Memories
Together we identify specific experiences, memories, or beliefs that may be connected to the challenges you are experiencing today.
4. Processing the Memory
During EMDR processing, you will briefly bring a memory to mind while following guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation. Your brain naturally begins to process the memory, allowing thoughts, emotions, and sensations to shift over time.
5. Strengthening Positive Beliefs
As the distress connected to the memory decreases, we work on strengthening more adaptive and supportive beliefs about yourself and the experience.
6. Integration and Moving Forward
As therapy continues, many clients notice that memories feel less intense, triggers decrease, and they are able to respond to life’s challenges with greater flexibility and confidence.
EMDR moves at a pace that feels safe and manageable. You remain in control throughout the process, and we work collaboratively to support your healing and growth.
Signs EMDR May Be Helpful
EMDR can be helpful if you find yourself experiencing:
Intrusive memories or thoughts about past events
Strong emotional reactions that feel difficult to control
Anxiety, panic, or feeling constantly on edge
Difficulty letting go of past experiences
Feeling “stuck” in patterns you want to change
Negative beliefs about yourself such as “I’m not safe,” “I’m not good enough,” or “I should have done something differently.”
These responses are common after distressing experiences, and therapy can help your brain process them in a healthier way.
Concerns EMDR Can Help Address
EMDR is often used to support individuals experiencing:
Trauma and post-traumatic stress
Anxiety and panic
Grief and loss
Stress from high-responsibility professions
Distressing life experiences or memories
Negative self-beliefs connected to past events
EMDR is also frequently helpful for individuals who have tried traditional talk therapy but still feel emotionally “stuck.”