Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brain Spotting evidence-based therapy approaches are designed to help the brain process distressing memories and experiences. Many clients find more comfort in knowing they don't have to retell the details of traumtic, distressing events for EMDR to work. With EMDR, the brain does the work. (similar to Brain Spotting)

EMDR may support healing:

• Trauma (Big T and little t)
• PTSD and complex trauma
• Anxiety
• Distressing memories
• Emotional triggers
• Grief and loss
• Stress
• Anger
• Guilt & Regret
• Negative Core Beliefs
• Intergenerational Trauma
• Addiction
• ADHD/ASD
• Extended sessions may be available when clinically appropriate.

EMDR is used to treat:

• Trauma
• PTSD and complex trauma
• Anxiety
• Distressing memories
• Emotional triggers
• Grief and loss
• Addiction
• Stress
• Anger
• Guilt 
• Regret
• Shame
• Negative Core Beliefs
• Intergenerational Trauma
• Emotional Overwhelm
• ADHD/ASD

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy helps individuals process distressing experiences, reduce the emotional impact of trauma, and move toward healing and greater emotional well-being. EMDR is an evidence-based psychotherapy approach that helps the brain process and integrate difficult memories and experiences that may continue to affect thoughts, emotions, body responses, and relationships. 

Sometimes overwhelming or traumatic experiences are not fully processed and can remain stored in a way that feels present, even when the event happened in the past. EMDR therapy helps support the brain’s natural healing process by guiding individuals through structured phases of treatment that focus on memories, emotions, body sensations, and beliefs connected to distressing experiences.

During EMDR sessions, clients are supported in accessing difficult memories while using bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, tapping, or other methods. This process can help reduce the intensity of distressing memories and create space for more adaptive thoughts, emotions, and responses.

• Difficult life experiences
• Childhood and relational trauma
• Stress and emotional overwhelm
• Negative beliefs about yourself
• Relationship patterns connected to past experiences
• Phobias and distressing memories

 EMDR therapy is a collaborative process that moves at a pace that feels safe, supportive, and manageable. Treatment begins with understanding your history, identifying your goals, and building coping skills and emotional resources to help you feel prepared before processing difficult experiences.

Together, we will develop a treatment plan that fits your unique needs while ensuring you have the tools, support, and confidence needed throughout the process.

At Riverside Counseling, EMDR sessions incorporate a multi-sensory approach using the Neurotek Light Bar, bilateral stimulation tappers, and headphones with speakers and other tools to support the brain’s natural healing process. This approach helps clients reprocess distressing memories, reduce the emotional intensity connected to past experiences, and create new, healthier ways of responding.

EMDR is not about forgetting what happened—it is about helping your mind and body process experiences that may still feel overwhelming, so you can move forward with greater peace, resilience, and emotional freedom.

At Riverside Counseling, your life experiences are honored, and your goals guide the work.

Contact Riverside today to get started.