LCPC
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
EMDR is a well-researched, evidence-based therapy that helps people heal from trauma, PTSD, and other distressing experiences.
When we go through something overwhelming, it can interrupt the brain's natural ability to process and move past it. EMDR works by reactivating that natural healing process, helping the brain sort, make sense of, and file away the memory.
I'm Certified in Standard EMDR and trained in Attachment-Focused EMDR (AF-EMDR) by Dr. Laurel Parnell. Not sure which approach is right for you? That's exactly what a free consultation is for. I'm always happy to walk through the difference. If you're curious to learn more first, the short video at the bottom of the page is a great place to start.
AF-EMDR
Attachment-Focused EMDR, developed by Dr. Laurel Parnell, is a modification of Standard EMDR built specifically for adults who experienced abuse or trauma in childhood.
Early experiences shape how our brains develop, including the beliefs we carry about ourselves and our sense of safety in relationships. AF-EMDR is designed to gently repair those developmental gaps, which can otherwise show up later as depression, anxiety, difficulty regulating emotions, or trouble feeling secure in relationships.
This approach focuses first on the therapeutic relationship itself, creating a sense of safety before diving into the deeper work. AF-EMDR blends Resource Tapping, EMDR, and talk therapy to help you build new neural pathways, fill in what was missing growing up, and ease longstanding pain, feelings of inadequacy, or loss.
What to Expect
EMDR therapy generally moves through a few phases: first building safety and coping tools, then identifying the memories or experiences we'll work on, and finally processing them using bilateral stimulation: eye movements, tapping, or sound.
One thing that surprises people is that you don't need to describe your trauma in detail for EMDR to work.
We move at whatever pace feels manageable for you.