Frequently Asked Questions

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or sounds) to help your brain process distressing memories so they lose their emotional intensity. EMDR is endorsed by the American Psychological Association, the World Health Organization, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a first-line treatment for PTSD.

Traditional talk therapy relies primarily on verbal processing — analyzing and discussing experiences. EMDR accesses memories differently, using bilateral brain stimulation to allow the brain to fully process what's stored. This means EMDR can reach material that talk therapy sometimes cannot, and often produces results more quickly.

EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model: the idea that traumatic memories can get 'stuck' in the nervous system in an unprocessed form, causing ongoing emotional and physical distress. Bilateral stimulation appears to activate the brain's natural information processing system — similar to what happens during REM sleep — allowing stuck memories to be reprocessed and integrated.

Sessions vary by phase. Early sessions focus on history-taking and building coping resources. During active processing, you'll hold a specific memory in mind while following eye movements, taps, or sounds. Many clients describe it as watching a train pass — the memory becomes more distant, less charged. You remain in control throughout, and can stop at any time.

This depends on the complexity and duration of your trauma. Single-incident traumas (e.g., a car accident or assault) often respond significantly in 6-12 sessions. Complex developmental trauma — multiple, chronic adverse experiences — typically requires longer treatment. I will give you a personalized estimate after your initial assessment session.

Yes. Multiple peer-reviewed studies confirm that telehealth EMDR produces equivalent outcomes to in-person treatment for most clients. I use a HIPAA-compliant platform with specialized bilateral stimulation tools delivered via screen. All you need is a quiet, private space and a reliable internet connection.

I work independently and outside of insurance networks, which allows me to offer more personalized and flexible support at a competitive rate.

I offer tailored, in-depth sessions designed to support lasting change. A standard 60-minute session is $90, and a 90-minute intensive session is $135. For deeper ongoing work, I also offer the '4-Session Breakthrough' package for $480, which includes 6 hours of support that can be used anytime within one year. During our complimentary initial consultation, we can explore which format best fits your current needs.

No. This is one of the most significant differences between EMDR and traditional talk therapy. During EMDR processing, you do not need to describe what happened in detail. You simply hold the memory in mind while following the bilateral stimulation. Many clients find this a great relief.

EMDR is best known for treating PTSD, but research supports its effectiveness for: anxiety disorders (GAD, panic, social anxiety, phobias), depression with trauma history, complicated grief, complex PTSD, childhood trauma and abuse, addiction with trauma roots, chronic pain with psychological component, dissociative symptoms, and more.

EMDR is appropriate for most people who have experienced adverse life events that continue to cause distress. It is suitable for adults, adolescents, and children (with age-appropriate adaptations). I will conduct a thorough assessment to determine if EMDR is the right approach for your specific situation.

Yes, though it typically takes longer than simple PTSD treatment. I use a phase-based approach that prioritizes stabilization and resource development before processing begins, ensuring clients with complex trauma feel safe and empowered throughout the process.

I am licensed to provide telehealth therapy in multiple US states and serve clients nationwide. Check the locations page or contact us to confirm availability in your specific state.

A device with a camera and microphone (laptop, tablet, or smartphone), a stable internet connection, a quiet and private space, and ideally headphones or earbuds for better audio quality. That's it — no special equipment or downloads required.

Simply fill out the contact form or click 'Book a Free Consultation'. I will respond within 24 hours to schedule a free 15-minute introductory call. There's no commitment required from this initial conversation.

I request 24-hour advance notice for cancellations. Late cancellations (less than 24 hours) may incur a late cancellation fee of 50% of the session cost. Emergencies and medical situations are always handled with understanding.