EMDR therapy
EMDR therapy in Tallahassee
Help for trauma and PTSD that doesn't require retelling every detail. A core part of my work, especially with first responders.
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It's a structured therapy that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories that got "stuck" when they happened. After EMDR, people often still remember what happened, but the memory no longer brings the same flood of fear, shame, or physical reaction.
EMDR is one of the most studied treatments for trauma. It is recommended for PTSD by organizations including the World Health Organization and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
How it works
While you briefly focus on a difficult memory, you follow a back-and-forth stimulus, such as eye movements, tapping, or tones. This "bilateral stimulation" helps your brain process the memory the way it processes ordinary experiences. Sessions follow a clear sequence:
- History and planning: we talk about your goals and which memories or triggers to work on.
- Preparation: you learn calming and grounding skills so you feel in control throughout.
- Reprocessing: we work through target memories using bilateral stimulation.
- Strengthening: we reinforce healthier beliefs about yourself, like "I'm safe now" or "I did what I could."
- Review: we check progress each session and adjust the plan.
Who EMDR can help
- First responders dealing with critical incidents or cumulative stress
- People with PTSD, flashbacks, nightmares, or feeling constantly on edge
- Survivors of accidents, assault, loss, or other traumatic events
- Anxiety, panic, and distressing memories that keep resurfacing
EMDR questions
Do I have to talk about my trauma in detail?
No. EMDR doesn't require you to describe every detail out loud. You hold the memory in mind while we work, and you stay in control of the pace.
How many sessions does EMDR take?
It depends on what you're working on. A single incident may take a handful of sessions; more complex or long-term trauma usually takes longer. We'll talk about a plan at your intake session.
Is EMDR hypnosis?
No. You are awake, aware, and in control the whole time, and you can stop at any point.
Is EMDR safe?
EMDR is a well-established, evidence-based therapy. It's normal to feel tired or have some emotions come up between sessions, and you'll learn grounding skills before any reprocessing begins.
Curious whether EMDR is right for you?
Call for a free 15-minute consultation. We'll talk about what you're dealing with and whether EMDR is a good fit.