Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
EMDR
EMDR Therapy in Colorado Springs
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR is a structured therapy that encourages the patient to focus briefly on the trauma memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements or tapping), which is associated with a reduction in the vividness and emotion associated with the trauma memories. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from trauma and PTSD symptoms.
​
Ongoing research supports positive clinical outcomes showing EMDR therapy as a helpful trauma therapy for disorders such as anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, addictions, and other distressing life experiences (Maxfield, 2019). EMDR therapy has even been superior to Prozac in trauma treatment (Van der Kolk et al., 2007). Shapiro and Forrest (2016) share that more than 7 million people have been treated successfully by 110,000 therapists in 130 countries since 2016.
Source: wwww.emdria.org
How is EMDR therapy different from other therapies?
EMDR therapy does not require talking in detail about the distressing issue or completing homework between sessions. EMDR therapy, rather than focusing on changing the emotions, thoughts, or behaviors resulting from the distressing issue, allows the brain toresume its natural healing process.
​
EMDR therapy is designed to resolve unprocessed traumatic memories in the brain. For many clients, EMDR therapy can be completed in fewer sessions than other
psychotherapies.
Source: wwww.emdria.org
Who can benefit from EMDR therapy?
EMDR therapy helps children and adults of all ages. Therapists use EMDR therapy to address a wide range of challenges:
​
-
Anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias
-
Chronic Illness and medical issues
-
Depression and bipolar disorders
-
Dissociative disorders
-
Eating disorders
-
Pain
-
Performance anxiety
-
Personality disorders
-
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma and stress-related issues
-
Sleep disturbance
-
Substance abuse and addiction
FAQ
How does EMDR therapy work?
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, tapping, or tones, while you focus briefly on a memory or sensation. This helps the brain process the experience in a more adaptive way. Over time, the emotional intensity decreases and the memory feels less disruptive.
You do not have to relive the trauma in detail for EMDR to be effective.
​
Do I have to talk about my trauma in EMDR?
No. One of the benefits of EMDR therapy is that you do not need to describe every detail of what happened. Many clients share only what feels safe and necessary. The work happens internally, guided by your nervous system, with the therapist providing structure and support.
​
Is EMDR safe?
Yes. EMDR is a well researched and widely used trauma therapy. A trained EMDR therapist will spend time helping you build coping skills and emotional stability before moving into deeper processing. Sessions are paced carefully to avoid overwhelm.
​
What does EMDR feel like during a session?
Everyone’s experience is different, but people often notice:
• Thoughts and memories shifting naturally
• Emotions rising and falling
• Physical sensations changing
• A sense of relief or clarity over time
Some sessions feel calm, others more active. Your therapist will check in regularly and help you stay grounded.
​
How long does EMDR therapy take?
The length of EMDR therapy depends on many factors, including the type of trauma, how long it occurred, and your current support system. Some people notice significant relief in a few sessions, while others benefit from longer term trauma therapy. Healing is not rushed.
​
Is EMDR better than talk therapy?
EMDR is not better or worse than talk therapy. It is different. Many people benefit from a combination of both. EMDR is especially helpful when trauma feels stored in the body or nervous system and insight alone has not led to change.
​
Can EMDR help if I don’t remember everything clearly?
Yes. You do not need a clear or complete memory for EMDR to work. EMDR can be effective even when trauma is experienced as sensations, emotions, or vague images rather than a full narrative.
​
How do I know if EMDR is right for me?
EMDR may be a good fit if:
• You feel emotionally stuck despite understanding your past
• Your body reacts strongly even when life feels safe
• You experience triggers, panic, or shutdown
• You want trauma therapy that works with the nervous system
A consultation with a trauma therapist can help determine if EMDR is appropriate for you.
​
Is EMDR therapy available in Colorado Springs?
Yes. EMDR therapy is offered as part of trauma therapy at Dynamic Counseling in Colorado Springs. Our therapists are trained to provide EMDR in a way that is supportive, paced, and tailored to each client’s needs.​
​
Source: wwww.emdria.org
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
Google Review
I couldn't say enough positive things! I've been working with Whitney since last summer doing EMDR and it's helped rewire my brain in ways I did not know needed re-wiring. It's scary, but I promise if you jump into therapy with Whitney you will not regret it!
Google Review
My experience has been phenomenal so far. If you're looking for an EMDR therapist who is patient, kind, and truly listens, but doesn't just listen and actually provides constructive feedback, I highly recommend Beth.
Google Review
Andrea is a compassionate and committed provider who truly cares about her clients. EMDR with her has had such a positive impact on my life and in ways I never realized. Cannot recommend her enough!