EMDR Therapy in New York and New Jersey

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy that helps people process distressing experiences and reduce their emotional impact. It is especially well-supported for PTSD and trauma, and research also shows benefits for related anxiety and depression symptoms.

When something overwhelming happens, the memory can stay "stuck" with the images, feelings and body sensations of that moment. EMDR helps your brain finish processing it. The event is still something that happened, but it no longer feels like it is happening now.

EMDR is recommended in PTSD treatment guidelines from the World Health Organization and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense. I am trained in EMDR and use it alongside other approaches when it fits your goals.

EMDR can help reduce emotional triggers, distressing memories, negative beliefs, and the feeling of being stuck in the past. Many people come to EMDR when talking about an experience has helped them understand it, but has not changed how it feels.

• Single upsetting events, such as an accident, assault, loss or medical crisis
• Ongoing or earlier experiences that still shape how you see yourself
• Trauma and PTSD symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares or feeling on edge
• Anxiety and panic that seem linked to past events
• Negative beliefs like "I am not safe," "It was my fault" or "I am not enough"

EMDR follows a structured plan with eight phases. We move through them at a pace that feels manageable for you.

• History and planning: we talk about what brings you in and choose which memories or patterns to work on.
• Preparation: you learn calming and grounding skills first, so you feel resourced before any processing begins.
• Assessment: we identify a target memory, the image, the negative belief attached to it, and the feelings and body sensations that come with it.
• Desensitization: you briefly hold the memory in mind while following bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, taps or tones. Your mind makes new connections as the distress eases.
• Installation: we strengthen a more helpful belief, such as "I survived" or "I am safe now."
• Body scan: you notice any tension left in the body so it can be processed too.
• Closure: each session ends with you feeling steady, using the skills from preparation if needed.
• Reevaluation: at the next session we check what has shifted and decide what comes next.

Throughout, you stay awake, in control and able to stop at any time. You do not need to describe every detail of a memory for EMDR to work.

During processing, people notice images, thoughts, feelings or body sensations come and go. Some sessions feel intense and some feel quiet. Afterward, many people describe the memory as more distant or less charged.

EMDR sessions take place by secure, HIPAA-compliant video for clients located anywhere in New York or New Jersey. Therapy that meets you where you live, from home or any private space.

EMDR by video uses the same structure. Bilateral stimulation can be visual, following movement on the screen, or tactile, such as tapping your own shoulders or knees. Many people find it works well from a comfortable, private space at home.

EMDR is one part of a broader, collaborative approach. Depending on your needs, I may combine it with CBT, DBT skills, mindfulness, or person-centered and relational work.

Some clients use EMDR for a few specific memories, then continue with other therapy. Others focus mainly on EMDR. We decide together. In-person sessions in Montclair, NJ are available on request.

If you are wondering whether EMDR is right for you, let's talk. A free 15-minute phone or video consultation is a chance to ask questions and see if we are a good fit. You can reach out here.