Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

If you are seeking EMDR therapy, you may be navigating the effects of a recent or single-incident trauma, anxiety, or heightened sensitivity to stress. I offer EMDR therapy for adults in Oregon through secure online telehealth.

What is EMDR therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in 1987. During her initial observations, she noticed that bilateral eye movements while focusing on distressing memories appeared to reduce the emotional intensity associated with those memories. From this, she developed a structured therapeutic approach and began researching its effectiveness for trauma and PTSD.

Since then, EMDR therapy has been extensively researched and refined, and is widely recognized as an effective treatment not only for PTSD, but also for a range of concerns including anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, OCD, depression, and grief.

A woman walking on a dirt forest trail surrounded by tall trees with mist.

How does EMDR work?

EMDR therapy works by using bilateral stimulation—such as eye movements, tapping, or tones—to help the brain process and integrate distressing memories. Eye movements may be done side to side or diagonally, while tapping can occur on alternating sides of the arms, chest, or knees. Some therapists also use handheld buzzers as an alternative form of bilateral stimulation.

EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which proposes that the brain has a natural ability to heal and integrate difficult or traumatic experiences. When memories become “stuck” due to overwhelm or trauma, EMDR therapy helps support the brain’s natural processing so memories can be stored in a less distressing way.

Through this process, EMDR therapy can reduce the emotional intensity of traumatic memories and strengthen positive core beliefs . As unprocessed memories are resolved, many people experience a reduction in present-day symptoms such as:

  • panic attacks

  • flashbacks

  • avoidance of people, places, or activities

  • social anxiety

  • specific phobias

  • nightmares

  • persistent negative thoughts

  • difficulty relaxing

  • anxious or intrusive thoughts

Work with an EMDR therapist in Oregon

If you are interested in EMDR therapy in Oregon, please reach out to schedule a free 15-minute consultation. I offer online EMDR therapy through secure telehealth, allowing you to process traumatic or distressing memories from the comfort of your own home. I am an EMDR therapist based in Portland, Oregon, and I provide EMDR therapy to adults across the state of Oregon.

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