Heal from trauma, anxiety, and distress—faster.
EMDR is an evidence-based psychotherapy designed to help children and adults recover from traumatic memories and emotional distress more efficiently than traditional talk therapy alone. Whether used as a standalone treatment or integrated with ongoing therapy, EMDR empowers your brain’s natural ability to heal.
What is EMDR Therapy and How Does It Work?
When we experience severe distress or trauma, the brain’s natural information-processing system can become overloaded. Memories get “stuck,” causing us to experience heightened distress, anxiety, or negative self-beliefs long after the event has passed—often without us realizing the connection.
How EMDR helps: EMDR uses Bilateral Stimulation (BLS)—such as side-to-side eye movements, gentle rhythmic tapping, or auditory tones—while you recall specific memories. This dual-attention process unblocks the brain’s processing system, allowing you to store memories in a healthy, adaptive way.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy
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Reduced Trauma Symptoms: Decrease emotional reactivity and distress associated with painful memories.
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Improved Emotional Well-Being: Experience noticeable improvements in mood, self-esteem, and daily functioning.
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Stronger Relationships: Overcome deep-seated triggers that impact your connections with others.
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Faster Progress: Many clients achieve significant treatment goals in fewer sessions compared to standard psychotherapy.
Scientifically Proven & Nationally Recognized
EMDR is not just effective—it is backed by extensive clinical research, including over 30 controlled outcome studies.
Recognized as an Evidence-Based Practice by:
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs & Department of Defense: Top-tier recommendation for PTSD treatment.
SAMHSA (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services): Registered for effective treatment of PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
California Evidence-Based Clearinghouse for Child Welfare: Highest level of research support for treating child trauma.
“The mind can heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma.”
“When you cut your hand, your body works to close the wound. If a foreign object or repeated injury irritates the wound, it festers and causes pain. Once the block is removed, healing resumes. EMDR therapy demonstrates that a similar sequence of events occurs with mental processes… Once the block is removed, healing resumes.”
— EMDR Institute
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during an EMDR session?
Your therapist will guide you through focusing on a specific memory while introducing bilateral stimulation (such as visual tracking or tapping). Together, you will work to process the negative thoughts and feelings associated with the memory and replace them with positive, empowering beliefs.
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You remain in full control: You do not have to describe your memories in vivid detail if you do not wish to, and you can pause or stop the session at any time.
How many sessions will I need?
Because every individual’s history is unique, the total number of sessions varies. EMDR follows an established 8-Phase Treatment Framework:
- History Taking & Treatment Planning
- Preparation & Coping Tools
- Assessment
- Desensitization (BLS)
- Installation of Positive Beliefs
- Body Scan
- Closure
- Re-evaluation
Your therapist will outline a personalized plan during your initial intake.
Can EMDR be done online via Telehealth?
Yes. EMDR is highly effective through telehealth as well as in-person. We adapt bilateral stimulation techniques (such as visual cues or bilateral audio) for secure, virtual sessions from the comfort of your home.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
At CFCE, many of our therapists are fully trained in EMDR. Our program is led with expertise—Meg Clark Soriano, MA, LPC, ACS, RPT-S, RST-C/T, and Mary Wightman, LCSW, RPT-S are Approved Consultants through the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA).
Whether you prefer online therapy or in-person care, we are here to support your healing journey.
For additional information and research on EMDR, visit the