EMDR Therapy Can
Change Your Life.
Everything You Need To Know About EMDR
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an innovative and powerful form of psychotherapy that helps people process traumatic or distressing experiences. This therapy involves the use of bilateral stimulation to stimulate the brain's natural healing processes.
The fundamental concept of EMDR therapy is based on the notion that traumatic experiences can get "stuck" in our brains, resulting in ongoing distress and negative symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and flashbacks. EMDR helps to unblock these negative thoughts and feelings through the process of memory reconsolidation, allowing the brain to process the experience in a more adaptive way.
One of the most remarkable aspects of EMDR is that it is a relatively brief therapy, implying that clients can frequently see significant progress after just a few sessions
What Is EMDR Therapy Like?
EMDR is a structured, eight‑phase therapy designed to establish safety and stability so clients can process distressing experiences effectively. During reprocessing, I guide clients through bilateral stimulation while they focus on a troubling memory or negative belief. This helps “unlock” the stuck material and supports more adaptive, integrated processing. Many clients report relief and a sense of freedom afterward, as EMDR often reaches the root of issues in ways other therapies may not.
Alongside standard EMDR protocol, I integrate parts work (Ego State therapy) and somatic interventions to support holistic, whole‑person healing.
Who Can EMDR Therapy Help?
EMDR therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a broad range of issues, including PTSD, complex PTSD (aka developmental and attachment trauma), anxiety, depression, addiction, and even chronic pain. It can be utilized as a standalone therapy or in conjunction with other forms of treatment.
If you’re interested in learning more about specific issues I particularly find EMDR effective for, please refer to the “Areas of Special Interest” below.
Below are the eight phases that form the foundation of our work together. I'm here to guide and support you through each step, tailoring our approach to your unique needs. Your journey is important, and I'm committed to helping you achieve the positive changes you're seeking. If you have other questions about this process, please reach out: Sharon@readytoelevate.org.
The 8 Phases of EMDR Therapy
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1
History & Treatment Planning
In our early sessions, we’ll spend time getting to know each other and clarifying your goals for therapy. I’ll ask what you hope to gain from this work—your initial answer helps us shape a treatment plan, even though your goals may evolve over time. From there, we’ll explore your current functioning and then move into a thorough history, starting from early development onward. As we go, we’ll “zoom in” with specific questions and “zoom out” to identify patterns across your life. History taking typically takes 2–4 sessions, depending on age, emotional regulation, and the complexity of life experiences.
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2
Preparation
Preparation is an important step and it often begins in your first session as we do some gentle gauging of overall emotional activation. Throughout our initial phases I'll provide you with tools—coping strategies and relaxation techniques—to ensure you feel ready for reprocessing and your time between sessions. I’ll help you get comfortable attuning to your body and responding to your needs (not just trying to shut it up).
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3
Assessment
In the assessment phase, we identify the specific memory or issue to target in EMDR. Together, we clarify the vivid image, negative belief, emotions, and body sensations connected to the experience, and establish the positive belief you want to strengthen. This creates a clear roadmap for reprocessing and ensures the work is focused, contained, and grounded in your lived experience.
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4
Desensitization
This is where the heart of the work happens and the power of EMDR resides. Using non-invasive bilateral stimulation techniques (i.e. self tapping or electronic tappers), we'll process those targeted memories. The goal is to ease the emotional weight and move towards resolution. I’ll be there the whole time as a guide for you, helping with creative interweaves and direction as needed.
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5
Instillation
In this phase, we'll shift our focus to positive beliefs. I'll guide you in cultivating and embracing these positive thoughts, gradually replacing any lingering negative beliefs. By the time this phase rolls around you will be experiencing more positive emotions and for some a sense of euphoria.
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6
Body Scan
We’ll check in to ensure you're feeling physically and emotionally grounded. This phase involves scanning your body for any residual tension or discomfort and addressing it if needed.
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7
Closure
As we conclude our session, I'll make sure you're in a stable state. This closure is designed to leave you feeling complete and secure, ready to carry the progress we've made into your daily life. If you were unable to complete a full target during your processing session, we’ll utilize time at the end to do containment and calm place imagery as needed.
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8
Re-Evaluation
Together, we'll review the changes and improvements you've experienced. Any remaining concerns or areas for further exploration will be addressed.
This is a collaborative reflection on your journey.
Betrayal &
Relationship Trauma
EMDR helps repair the deep emotional wounds created by betrayal and relational trauma by targeting the memories, beliefs, and body responses that keep the pain feeling current. Through guided bilateral stimulation, the brain can reprocess these experiences with greater safety and clarity, reducing triggers, rebuilding trust in yourself, and restoring a sense of stability and worth. Many people find that EMDR not only softens the intensity of past relational injuries but also strengthens their capacity for healthier connections moving forward.
Areas of Special Interest
Childhood &
Inner Child Trauma
EMDR helps gently resolve the lingering impact of childhood and inner‑child wounds by targeting the memories, beliefs, and body sensations that became “stuck” during early experiences. Through guided bilateral stimulation, the brain can reprocess these moments with greater safety and perspective, reducing emotional intensity and strengthening healthier, more compassionate beliefs about yourself. Many people find that EMDR not only softens old pain but also supports a deeper sense of empowerment, connection, and inner safety.
Love & Romantic Relationships
What if you could finally move on from that toxic ex or break the dating patterns that leave you feeling stuck or alone? What if you felt safe enough to open yourself to real, healthy connection?
EMDR can help interrupt these cycles, strengthen self‑worth, and support you in creating the meaningful relationships you deserve.
Dysfunctional & Emotionally
Immature Family
Growing up in a dysfunctional, toxic family system with emotionally immature parents is difficult. This type of environment can lead to a range of issues we find ourselves battling as adults, from perfectionism to codependency to insecure attachment and more. Learn how EMDR can help you work through issues caused by your family of origin.
Narcissitic Abuse
EMDR can help you untangle the confusion, self‑doubt, and emotional pain left by narcissistic abuse by targeting the memories and beliefs that kept you feeling small, unsafe, or unworthy. Through guided bilateral stimulation, the brain can reprocess these experiences with greater clarity and distance, reducing triggers and loosening the grip of old patterns. Many people find that EMDR helps restore their sense of self, rebuild trust in their own perceptions, and create the internal safety needed to form healthier, more empowered relationships moving forward.
Compulsive & Behavioral Addictive Behaviors
EMDR can help you break free from compulsive or addictive behaviors by targeting the underlying memories, emotions, and beliefs that drive the cycle. Through guided bilateral stimulation, the brain can reprocess the experiences that fuel urges and shame, reducing reactivity and creating space for healthier choices.
Many people find that EMDR strengthens self‑control, increases self‑compassion, and supports lasting change rooted in clarity rather than willpower alone.
Are You Ready?
If you are ready to get on the path to heal and move toward feeling and being more aligned in your body, mind, and values, schedule your complimentary 15 minute consultation with Sharon.