About EMDR Therapy

Sometimes we understand exactly why we react the way we do, and still can't stop. That's because trauma isn't only a memory. It gets stored in the nervous system, still carrying the fear, shame, or helplessness of the moment it happened. 

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps the brain finish processing those experiences, so they become part of your past instead of something you keep reliving.

What EMDR Can Help With: 

EMDR is recommended by the World Health Organization for the treatment of PTSD, and it's one of the most researched trauma therapies available. I use it to help clients with:

• PTSD and complex trauma
• Childhood wounds and painful memories
• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Depression and grief
• Addiction relapse triggers

As old memories lose their charge, many clients also notice what grows in their place: more calm, confidence, self-compassion, clarity, and healthier connection with others.

What a session is like: 

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, tapping, or alternating tones, while you briefly bring a memory to mind. You stay present and in control the whole time. You don't need to describe the memory in detail or talk through it over and over. Between sets, we pause and notice what's shifting.

Before any memory work, we spend time building resources that help you feel grounded and safe. Over time, painful beliefs like "I'm not safe" or "It was my fault" are replaced with ones that feel true now, like "I survived" or "I did the best I could."

EMDR with a Depth-Oriented Approach: 

I often weave EMDR together with Parts Work, Sandtray, and DreamTending. For clients who want to go deeper, this lets us reach not just a single memory but the whole network of experiences and beliefs that has kept them stuck.

In person or virtual: 

EMDR works well virtually. I offer sessions in person in Silverdale and online for anyone in Washington State.

About my training: 

I've been an EMDRIA-Certified EMDR Therapist since 2014.