EMDR & Mental Health: What You Should Know Before Starting Therapy
If you’ve been looking into therapy options, chances are you’ve come across the term EMDR before — but what exactly is it, and how can it support your healing journey with mental health?
Let’s break it down in a way that feels approachable, not overwhelming.
What Is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It’s a type of therapy designed to help people heal from trauma, anxiety, and other stressful life experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses on the brain’s natural healing process.
Think of it like this: just as your body knows how to heal a cut, your brain also knows how to heal from emotional wounds — but sometimes those wounds get “stuck.” EMDR helps unstick them.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, often through guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds, while you focus on a specific memory or thought. This helps the brain reprocess the experience in a healthier way.
The goal isn’t to erase the memory, but to reduce its emotional intensity so it no longer feels overwhelming. People often describe feeling lighter, less reactive, and more grounded after sessions.
What Can EMDR Help With?
EMDR is most well-known for treating PTSD, but it’s also helpful for:
Anxiety & panic attacks
Depression
Grief & loss
Phobias
Chronic pain
Self-esteem issues
Childhood trauma or neglect
Basically, if you have a stuck emotional pattern or distressing memory that keeps showing up — EMDR might help shift it!
What to Expect in EMDR Therapy
Starting EMDR doesn’t mean diving straight into trauma work. It’s a structured process that includes:
History & Preparation – Your therapist will get to know your story, your strengths, and your goals.
Resourcing – You’ll learn calming tools to feel safe and grounded before any memory processing starts. Think of coping skills, but in a practical, tangible way.
Desensitization & Reprocessing – When you’re ready, you’ll begin the bilateral stimulation part while focusing on specific memories or feelings.
Integration – You’ll process insights and changes as they come up and apply them to your life.
It’s normal to feel a mix of curiosity and nervousness when starting something new. A trained EMDR therapist will move at your pace and make sure you feel supported throughout.
Is EMDR Right for Me?
EMDR isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but it has helped millions of people feel freer, present, and empowered. If you’re dealing with emotional pain that feels stuck, it could be worth exploring.
The best way to know? Talk to a therapist trained in EMDR. Ask questions. Trust your instincts. Healing is possible — and you don’t have to do it alone. At WBS were here to hold space for you and work with you, wherever you are on your healing journey.
Ready to learn more or start EMDR therapy?
Our therapists are here to walk with you through every step of the journey. Reach out today — we’re currently accepting new clients and would be honored to support you. 💛
