Skip to content

Modalities

EMDR therapy

Some memories stay stuck. EMDR helps the mind and body finish processing them.

What it is

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) uses bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping, while you briefly recall a distressing memory. Over time the memory tends to lose its charge.

EMDR is recommended by the World Health Organization and the American Psychological Association as an effective treatment for trauma.

What it can help with

  • Trauma and painful memories.
  • Anxiety and panic.
  • Deeply held negative beliefs about yourself.
  • Grief that feels stuck.
  • Phobias and performance anxiety.

What a session is like

We begin with preparation: understanding your history and building ways to feel steady. Processing starts only when you feel ready.

During processing you notice a memory while following bilateral stimulation, then share what comes up. You stay in control and can pause at any time.

Common questions

  • Does EMDR work online? Yes. Research and clinical experience support EMDR by teletherapy, using eye movements or self-tapping.
  • Do I have to describe the trauma in detail? No. EMDR does not require you to talk through every detail.

Related approaches

Getting started

Sessions are offered by teletherapy anywhere in California, with in-person sessions available in San Diego. A free 15-minute phone consultation is the simplest first step.