FAQ for EMDR

  • The length of EMDR therapy depends on your needs.

    Some people are working through one specific event. Others are dealing with years of trauma, anxiety, relationship patterns, or low self-worth. Complex trauma usually takes more time.

    I do not promise quick fixes. The goal is real change, not rushing through the process.

    Ongoing sessions are 50 minutes and focused on helping you make meaningful, practical progress.

  • EMDR can be used with complex trauma, but the process may take longer. We may spend more time building coping skills, safety, and trust before deeper memory processing begins.

  • EMDR is often used for trauma, but it may also help with anxiety when the anxiety is connected to past experiences, triggers, or negative beliefs. We will talk about your symptoms and decide whether EMDR is a good fit.

  • Yes — EMDR can help with panic attacks and is often quite effective. It works two ways: by reducing the intensity of current triggers that bring on panic, and by processing past moments where those panic responses first developed. Through targeted reprocessing, EMDR helps change the emotional charge and meaning of those memories, which can reduce the automatic “I’m going to die” sensations and other catastrophic body-based beliefs. Over time, many people find their panic symptoms become less frequent, less intense, and more manageable, allowing them to respond to triggers with greater calm and control.

  • Yes — I have successfully treated compulsions using EMDR DeTUR, a protocol designed to address triggers linked to unwanted, addictive behaviors. It is particularly appropriate for substance use, problematic pornography use, and anger management.

  • That makes sense.

    Many people feel nervous before starting trauma work. You may worry about becoming overwhelmed, losing control, or opening up something you cannot close.

    We will talk through those concerns before starting. EMDR should be done in a careful and steady way. You do not have to jump into the hardest memory first.

    Therapy works best when there is enough trust, honesty, and room to move at your pace.

  • EMDR can be helpful for many people, but it is not the right fit for every person at every moment.

    If you are in crisis, actively unsafe, or feeling unable to stay grounded, we may need to focus first on stabilization and support.

    If medication, a higher level of care, or coordination with another provider would be helpful, we can talk about that too.

    The goal is to choose the kind of care that actually fits your situation.

  • My approach is systematic with an emphasis on your goals, wants, and needs while keeping with the EMDR protocol as established. I fully recognize anyone I work with is on a different starting path and I tailor the approach to you.

    I place emphasis on providing the tools and resources you need to begin EMDR and to maintain tolerance for trauma work.

    EMDR is formatted with very specific steps helping clients.

  • No. EMDR is not hypnosis. You are awake and aware during the session. You can pause, ask questions, or stop at any time.