EMDR Therapy Services

WHAT IS EMDR THERAPY?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a form of therapy that helps people heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences. EMDR therapy has been extensively researched and has demonstrated effectiveness for trauma.


ABOUT EMDR THERAPY

Our brains have a natural way to recover from traumatic memories and events. While many times traumatic experiences can be managed and resolved spontaneously, they may not be processed without help. Stress responses are part of our natural fight, flight, or freeze instincts. When distress from a disturbing event remains, the upsetting images, thoughts, and emotions may create feelings of overwhelm, of being back in that moment, or of being “frozen in time.” EMDR therapy helps the brain process these memories, and allows normal healing to resume.  The experience is still remembered, but the fight, flight, or freeze response from the original event is resolved.”

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM EMDR?

EMDR can be beneficial in treating a wide range of challenges.  Amanda has utilized EMDR to help clients who have experienced the following:

● Anxiety

● Panic Disorder

● Phobias

● Grief and loss

● Sexual Assault

● PTSD and other trauma and stress related issues

● Violence and other abuse

● Family of origin trauma and neglect

● Depression and Bipolar

HOW IS EMDR DIFFERENT FROM OTHER THERAPIES?

EMDR therapy does not require talking in detail about the distressing issue, or homework between sessions. EMDR, rather than focusing on changing the emotions, thoughts, or behaviors resulting from the distressing issue, allows the brain to resume its natural healing process. EMDR therapy is designed to resolve unprocessed traumatic memories in the brain. Part of the therapy includes alternating eye movements, sounds, or taps.

EMDR therapy may be used within a standard talking therapy, as an adjunctive therapy with a separate therapist, or as a treatment all by itself. There are 8 phases to EMDR therapy. Read more about the 8 phases.

WHICH THERAPIST(S) OFFER EMDR?

Amanda Woollard MA LPC, NCC

Amanda completed basic training in 2013 and has been certified since 2015. Amanda is a member of the EMDR International Association and continues to participate in additional training and learning opportunities.

EMDR: Trauma patients share their stories.

Introduction to EMDR therapy.

Jennifer Beechler MA, PLPC

Jennifer completed basic training in 2023 and is currently accepting new clients. She has been continuing to deepen her skillset by learning how to address attachment issues through EMDR.

Stephanie McManus MA, PLPC

Stephanie completed basic training in 2024 and is currently accepting new clients. Stephanie incorporates self compassion and parts work into sessions alongside EMDR.