
Virtual EMDR Therapy NYC, NY
I’m Delighted To Offer An Approach That Is A Synthesis Of Highly Effective, Evidence-Based Techniques, Which May Include: EMDR, CBT, Somatic Experiencing®, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Positive Neuroplasticity, lifestyle interventions, Nutrition Support, And Coaching. These Elements, When Integrated Into Sessions, Are Transformative For Clients, And In Much Less Time Than Traditional therapeutic Approaches.
a deeper dive & transformation with EMDR
A clinically oriented, Immersive & integrative psychotherapeutic approach
Have you explored other healing modalities and still struggle after years of talk therapy? For individuals who have done talk therapy and are now seeking something more, such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), the desire often stems from a need to address deeper emotional issues that haven’t fully resolved through traditional therapy. EMDR offers a unique approach by helping to reprocess traumatic memories or distressing experiences at a neurological level. This form of therapy can be especially beneficial for those who feel stuck or unable to move past certain emotional blocks or unhelpful life patterns.
I offer a holistic approach that combines deep, integrative, and somatic elements to healing, which can be incredibly transformative for people who have already explored traditional therapies without achieving the desired change. As an integrative therapist with a private practice for New Yorkers, many therapy clients show an interest in EMDR or have been referred by a doctor or another therapist for EMDR. This gentle approach is for you if you’ve tried talk therapy and other modalities, but your patterns and dynamics remain unchanged. Using EMDR and other highly effective, evidence-based therapies seamlessly woven into sessions, we co-create a healing process that exquisitely addresses the root cause of your emotional and somatic pain and deepens and expands on any previous work that you’ve done.
For lasting transformation, research indicates that working with the body somatically offers the greatest healing potential. My approach invites your nervous system to take the lead, setting aside cognitions and insights for a moment as we journey toward the wisdom of the body, which holds the information you need to transform your experience. You will naturally release stored energy, making new neural connections that rewire your brain and nervous system. Your experiences will finally make sense to you intellectually, somatically, and energetically. As you complete your EMDR journey, you will arrive with a different perspective, fully remembering your experience, without the overwhelming emotional and somatic distress that it once caused.
EMDR therapy can also be used in a way that supports manifestation—though not in the typical, traditional sense. Manifesting is often associated with the idea of attracting positive outcomes or creating a desired future through intention, visualization, and positive thinking. EMDR can play a unique role in this process by helping clear the internal blocks, limiting beliefs, and negative emotions that might prevent a person from fully aligning with their goals.
What happens in an EMDR session?
In the first EMDR session, we conduct a brief history of your experiences and concerns and determine if EMDR treatment is right for you. Together, we identify the specific memories, thoughts, or experiences that are causing you distress, and are the reasons you are seeking therapy. Frequently, you will be asked to identify 5-10 situations that cause you to struggle in your life. We then co-create goals and decide on the “target” to process during sessions. The target is the memory or image that offers the best window into the experience that has led to distress and disturbing patterns. Before we begin, I explain EMDR and bilateral stimulation in a way that’s easy to understand.
This initial session, if we are ready to get started, may also include developing “resources” or self-soothing techniques that support you during and after EMDR processing. If you researched EMDR therapy, you discovered that it works by stimulating both sides of the body and brain. This is called bilateral stimulation, and we access this by using gentle back and forth tapping or by holding small tappers that vibrate. You may also prefer back and forth eye movements, but many find this tiring. As we practice resourcing, you will be guided through a series of imagery exercises that serve to create relaxation and calm in the nervous system. If you think of it in computer language, you will be “uploading” stabilizing resources for you to calm and regulate your nervous system in the future or during stressful times.
As we move into processing, we bring your attention to that image and the emotions and sensations in your body, and the negative beliefs that go with it. As you focus on that image alongside the emotions and sensations, you begin bilateral stimulation, the back and forth tapping or eye movements. During this brief time of processing, (usually less than a minute) you simply observe any memories, thoughts, emotions or sensations that arise in your mind and body. When the first set is finished, you share your experience and we return to more bilateral stimulation. Each set, you process and notice more. You may even notice that some of these thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and sensations have changed. This process continues until the target no longer evokes difficult emotions, is less or no longer disturbing and is replaced with a different perspective or positive belief, such as “I survived,” or “it’s over and I’m safe.”
EMDR has been described as “sneaky powerful,” accomplishing in just a few sessions what typical psychotherapy accomplishes in months and years.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is an integrative, evidence-based therapy that relieves the emotional and physical distress of experiences in your life. EMDR is a proven powerful method used to treat small “t” trauma (divorce, infidelity, transitions, legal troubles, etc.) or big “T” trauma (natural disaster, physical or sexual assault, a car or plane accident, etc). EMDR therapy is proven to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, panic, phobias, depression and PTSD, and so much more. EMDR is successfully used to address performance difficulties and enhance peak performance. It is recommended and approved by professional organizations including The American Psychological Association, The World Health Organization, The U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs, The International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, The American Psychiatric Association and others.
EMDR therapy involves the use of bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye movements. Decades of evidence strongly suggest that the utilization of the eye movements or tapping unique to EMDR remain responsible for EMDR remaining a generally more effective treatment for stress, anxiety, anger, grief, addiction than other more traditional “talk” therapies. During an EMDR session, the therapist guides the client to recall distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. Research indicates this process enhances communication between the brain’s hemispheres, promoting the integration and processing of distressing memories or future fears and anxieties.
EMDR Therapy identifies and addresses experiences that have overwhelmed the brain’s natural coping capacity and resilience, which has led to traumatic symptoms and harmful coping adaptations, thus helping clients reprocess traumatic information leading to a more peaceful and integrated resolution. Negative, painful thoughts and beliefs are replaced with more adaptive and realistic “here and now” perceptions and self-concepts.
Another way to understand EMDR is that of Adaptive Information Processing (AIP). AIP is best described as a “rapid cognitive restructuring of the irrational thoughts that occur with the recall of negative memory.” EMDR allows the client to have a more adaptive experience to the here and now, which includes reasonable and helpful thoughts, perceptions, and considerations related to the event.
About EMDR and Neuroplasticity:
An important factor in the success of EMDR treatment is its ability to utilize the brain's neuroplasticity, which is the brain's capacity to change by forming new neural connections. In simpler terms, your negative beliefs and feelings about yourself can be transformed into more positive and life-affirming states. Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. This process allows the brain to "unlearn" unwanted responses, habits, or behaviors and replace them with more positive ones over time. This adaptability is one of the reasons why the brain can recover from injury and adapt to changes in environment or circumstances.
When someone experiences traumatic events, the brain and nervous system can become “stuck” or dysregulated, often leading to persistent symptoms such as anxiety, hypervigilance, intrusive thoughts, or emotional numbness. These responses can be tied to ingrained neural pathways that formed as a result of the trauma. Therapies like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) are designed to help facilitate neuroplastic changes. Through EMDR and similar techniques, the brain is guided to process and reframe traumatic memories, and this helps to shift those ingrained responses. With time and practice, the brain can replace harmful patterns with healthier, more adaptive responses. Many people report feeling more grounded, anchored and calm, as well as improved sleep and reduced anxiety. These improvements are likely the result of neuroplasticity at work, where new neural pathways are being created that support a more balanced and adaptive emotional state. The brain’s remarkable ability to rewire itself through neuroplasticity can transform the unwanted aspects of your life and allow you to finally have the life you deserve.
How was EMDR discovered?
Developed by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has since gained recognition and popularity as an effective treatment for a range of psychological issues beyond trauma. Dr. Shapiro noticed that when she thought of something upsetting or disturbing and moved her eyes back and forth, the material changed and became less disturbing. As a psychology graduate student, she was naturally curious about this discovery and developed what would eventually become EMDR therapy. EMDR is a specialized therapy that requires specific professional licensing and certifications.
Initially, EMDR was used solely for PTSD symptoms, there were very few formal studies to back up its effectiveness, and much of its early success was based on anecdotal evidence and reports from clinicians who saw dramatic improvements in their clients, often after only one session. This quick and profound relief for people who had struggled with PTSD for years was groundbreaking, as it offered results that were unlike any other therapeutic intervention at the time. Since then, numerous rigorous studies have been conducted, and the evidence supporting EMDR's efficacy has grown immensely. It is now recognized by many leading organizations, such as the American Psychological Association (APA)and the World Health Organization (WHO), as an effective treatment for PTSD. But what’s especially exciting is that it has evolved beyond PTSD, with applications for treating a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, phobias, and even some forms of chronic pain.
This expansion of its use beyond PTSD reflects the power of neuroplasticity, as EMDR helps the brain reprocess and integrate trauma in ways that allow it to heal and rewire itself for better emotional regulation and coping. What started as a revolutionary therapy for PTSD has now become a well-established treatment option with a broad scope of applications, making it a valuable tool in the mental health field. The results are truly transformative, and it’s incredible how it’s become a widely validated treatment over time.
Is EMDR evidence-based?
Yes, EMDR, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy is recognized world-wide as an evidence based, 8 phase process that helps clients and clinicians to more effectively get to the root of maladaptively held memories and beliefs that cause emotional triggers, depression, anxiety, even post traumatic stress disorders. Through the 8 phases, clients are guided to build resources that create more positive neural networks and adaptively process traumatic and disturbing memories that were previously maladaptively stored in the brain. The result is rewiring the brain and thought patterns for optimal mental and emotional wellness.
Manifesting with eMDR
Beyond trauma resolution, there are some very creative ways to use EMDR to improve your life. While manifestation is often linked to the Law of Attraction, which emphasizes the power of positive thinking and the alignment of thoughts with desires, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) can serve as a powerful tool to enhance this process by addressing the emotional and subconscious blocks that may hinder manifestation. EMDR therapy can be used in a way that supports manifestation—though not in the typical, traditional sense. Manifesting is often associated with the idea of attracting positive outcomes or creating a desired future through intention, visualization, and positive thinking. EMDR can play a unique role in this process by helping clear the internal blocks, limiting beliefs, and negative emotions that might prevent a person from fully aligning with their goals.
Here’s how EMDR could be creatively applied to the manifestation process:
Clearing Limiting Beliefs
One of the key obstacles to manifestation is the presence of deep-seated limiting beliefs, such as "I'm not worthy of success" or "I can never achieve my dreams." These beliefs are often formed early in life and can sabotage efforts to manifest a desired outcome.
EMDR can target and reprocess these beliefs, helping you reframe your thinking and adopt more empowering beliefs that are in alignment with your goals. For instance, after processing these old beliefs, you might replace them with a new, more positive belief like, "I am worthy of success" or "I can create the life I want."
Reprogramming the Subconscious Mind
A large part of manifestation is about shifting the subconscious mind to align with your conscious desires. The subconscious can hold onto past trauma, fears, and doubts that prevent you from attracting what you want.
EMDR can be used to reprocess old memories or emotions tied to fear of failure, fear of success, or even previous setbacks that might have created subconscious resistance. By reprocessing these memories, EMDR can create more room for positive change and allow for new, more supportive subconscious patterns to form.
Clearing Emotional Blocks
Manifesting is often blocked by emotional baggage such as unresolved anger, sadness, guilt, or shame, which can cloud judgment and hinder focus. These emotions can create energetic blocks, preventing the flow of abundance.
EMDR can be helpful for processing and releasing these emotional blocks, allowing you to feel more open, peaceful, and clear-headed—making it easier to align with your manifestation goals.
Aligning with future positive outcomes
Instead of just focusing on past traumas, EMDR can also be used to help individuals visualize and connect with future desired outcomes in a positive and empowering way. Practicing visualization is a way to increase positive neuroplasticity and change.
By processing positive future outcomes through EMDR, individuals can reframe their visions of success and manifestation as if they are already in alignment with those outcomes. This can make it feel more attainable and real, rather than something distant or unrealistic.
Increasing Self-Worth and Self-Confidence
Self-doubt can be a huge barrier when trying to manifest goals, especially when people feel unworthy of what they desire. EMDR can help process feelings of low self-worth or past experiences that might have led to feelings of inadequacy.
Once these emotional wounds are processed, individuals often experience increased self-confidence, which enhances their ability to step into their power and take inspired action toward their goals.
Shifting from Lack to Abundance Mindset
A lack mindset can manifest as scarcity, fear, and anxiety about not having enough. This can create energetic resistance to manifesting prosperity or abundance.
EMDR can help individuals reprocess memories related to financial insecurity or feelings of "not having enough", allowing them to shift to an abundance mindset where they feel worthy of receiving abundance and have a more open, optimistic view of opportunities.
Removing Fear of Failure
The fear of failure is one of the biggest manifestation blockers. Past failures or rejections can create significant fear, preventing individuals from taking risks or pursuing their dreams.
EMDR can help individuals reprocess these fears by addressing the underlying negative emotions attached to past failures, allowing them to take inspired action without the fear of failure holding them back.
Manifesting More Clarity on Goals
Sometimes, we may have difficulty clarifying what we truly want in life or feel uncertain about our goals. EMDR can help clear mental clutter or past experiences that cause confusion or indecision.
As EMDR works through any uncertainties or unclear patterns, it can provide individuals with more clarity on their true desires and help align their thoughts with actionable goals.
Supporting Inspired Action
Manifestation isn't just about thinking or visualizing your desires; it also involves taking inspired action. EMDR can help remove any procrastination or resistance to taking action by addressing the root causes, whether it's fear of success, perfectionism, or a sense of being overwhelmed.
By processing those feelings, you can become more motivated, focused, and ready to take steps toward your goals without hesitation.
Integrating Mind-Body Alignment
EMDR can also help align the mind-body connection for manifestation. If there are emotional or physical sensations that are out of sync with your manifestation intentions (e.g., physical tension, discomfort, or anxiety), EMDR can support in clearing those blockages.
This integration creates a sense of wholeness and alignment, which can amplify your ability to manifest effectively.
How it Works in Practice:
Step 1 - Identify a specific goal or desire you'd like to manifest.
Step 2 - Explore any past experiences or beliefs that might be blocking your manifestation (e.g., fears, limiting beliefs, or unresolved emotions).
Step 3 - Use EMDR techniques to reprocess these memories, clear emotional blockages, and reframe limiting beliefs.
Step 4 - Visualize the desired outcome or goal, imagining it already as a reality, while using EMDR to process any residual feelings that may still be preventing alignment with this vision.
Step 5 - Continue with conscious manifestation techniques like affirmations, visualization, and inspired action with a clearer, more empowered mindset.
In short, EMDR can be a powerful tool for removing internal resistance and emotional barriers, enabling individuals to align more fully with their manifestation goals. While EMDR doesn't directly "manifest" things on its own, it can certainly help clear the mental, emotional, and subconscious blocks that might be hindering your ability to manifest effectively.
mental health challenges that can be successfully treated with EMDR…
EMDR therapy effectively treats little t traumas, single incident experiences as well as big T, more impactful traumatic experiences, and longstanding developmental traumas that may lead to complex PTSD. Single-event traumas may take less time to heal compared to complex. longstanding negative experiences that require more sessions.
Experiencing hypervigilance and an inability to relax or feel at ease
Re-experiencing disturbing memories, flashbacks, nightmares
Avoidance of situations that are activating
Experiencing phobias, anxieties, fears, panic, obsessions, social anxiety
Symptoms of depression, dysphoria, chronic sadness
Feelings of abandonment, childhood neglect, and loss
Lack of trust and safety in the world or with others
Terrifying medical trauma or a difficult medical diagnosis
Desire to recover from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse or assault
Disturbing experiences in relationships or family of origin difficulties
Self-defeating patterns, self-sabotage, chronic poor self-esteem
Addictions, compulsions, substance misues, process addictions (gaming, porn, exercise, food, shopping, phones, etc.)
Symptoms related to accidents, natural disasters, and survivor guilt
Experiencing shame that creates acting out, avoidance, and defensive behaviors
Performance problems, public speaking, creative blocks that impact success
Traumatic events that have led to addictive and compulsive behaviors
Persistent negative thoughts, patterns, problem habits, and behaviors
Attachment wounds, betrayal trauma, post-affair recovery, interpersonal and relationship challenges, barriers to intimacy
Feeling “unlovable,” “unworthy” or “not enough”
Surviving an accident, crime, assault, robbery or rape
Loss or injury of a loved one, injury to self, prolonged grief
Lack of motivation and procrastination that interferes with professional and personal performance
The phase of life transitions and adjustment difficulties such as divorce recovery, childbirth, and aging
Is EMDR covered by insurance?
The good news is that, depending on your specific plan, EMDR therapy is usually covered by insurance as it is considered psychotherapy using the same healthcare CPT code. Some insurance providers refuse to cover the extended session times required for eye movement desensitization therapy. Many therapists today will offer more frequent 45 or 60 minute EMDR sessions to work around this problem. Most NYC EMDR specialists are out-of-network. If you decide to work with an out-of-network therapist, you will have an initial out-of-pocket investment, however, most insurance plans offer reimbursement for most session fees (often 60-100% after deductible). Even if initially fees may seem high, take comfort in knowing that a good percentage of the cost will be reimbursed after you submit your superbill. Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan is out-of-network with all major insurance carriers.
EMDR is not just for trauma…
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is often associated with trauma resolution, but its adaptable nature allows it to be used in a wide variety of creative ways during therapy sessions. Beyond traditional trauma work, EMDR can also be employed in more innovative and out-of-the-box ways for various personal growth, mental health, and performance-enhancing purposes. Here are some alternative applications:
Performance Enhancement
Overcoming Limiting Beliefs - EMDR can be used to address negative beliefs that hold individuals back from reaching their potential in sports, public speaking, or other performance-driven fields. By reprocessing memories tied to these beliefs, individuals can enhance their self-confidence and reduce performance anxiety.
Improving Focus and Flow - Athletes and musicians, for example, might use EMDR to help clear mental blocks that disrupt their concentration, leading to improved flow states during competitions or performances.
Enhancing Creativity
Unblocking Creative Potential - Many artists, writers, or creators experience mental blocks, often due to past experiences or internalized fears. EMDR can be used to address these blocks, unlocking more creativity and encouraging spontaneous ideation.
Reprocessing the Inner Critic - EMDR can help individuals confront and reprocess negative inner voices that criticize their creative work, opening up a more supportive and nurturing internal dialogue.
Resolving Relationship Patterns
Attachment Work - EMDR can help individuals with insecure attachment patterns resolve feelings of abandonment or fear of intimacy. By reprocessing early attachment experiences, EMDR can create a more secure sense of self and improve relationships.
Couples Therapy - In couples counseling, EMDR can help partners work through unresolved conflicts or shared traumas, creating deeper understanding and empathy, which can strengthen their bond.
Resolving Blocks to Personal Development
Breaking Through Growth Barriers - Many people experience plateauing in personal growth due to unresolved internal conflicts. EMDR can help individuals break free from these barriers, leading to breakthroughs in personal goals and development.
Improving Self-Compassion - EMDR can be used to help people cultivate a healthier, more compassionate relationship with themselves by reprocessing early experiences of shame or self-criticism.
Phobias and Fear Reduction
Overcoming Fears - EMDR is effective at helping individuals reprocess phobias or deep-seated fears—whether they’re related to flying, animals, or specific environments—by desensitizing the fearful memory.
Fear of Success - Some individuals subconsciously fear success due to previous negative experiences tied to achievement. EMDR can help resolve this fear, allowing people to embrace success with confidence.
Reducing Chronic Stress and Anxiety
Daily Stress Management - EMDR can help individuals process smaller, daily stresses and anxieties that accumulate over time, reducing the physical and emotional toll of chronic stress.
Reprocessing Negative Thinking Patterns - People with generalized anxiety may have deeply ingrained patterns of catastrophic thinking. EMDR can be used to reprocess these patterns, creating a more balanced and rational approach to future stressors.
Spiritual and Existential Growth
Exploring Life’s Purpose - EMDR can support individuals in exploring questions of life purpose or spirituality, reprocessing unresolved existential dilemmas, or integrating life-changing spiritual experiences in a way that is healing and transformative.
Healing from Religious or Spiritual Trauma - For individuals who have experienced harm from religious or spiritual systems, EMDR can provide a safe space to process and heal from those experiences.
Enhancing Learning and Memory
Improving Study Habits and Retention - For students or professionals, EMDR can be applied to help improve memory retention, study habits, and reduce test anxiety. By addressing underlying emotional stress related to learning, individuals can optimize their ability to absorb and recall information.
Accelerating Language Acquisition - EMDR may be used to help individuals process anxiety or negative memories related to learning new languages, enabling smoother and more confident language acquisition.
Resolving Grief and Loss
Healing from Loss - While grief is often part of trauma, EMDR can be creatively applied to the grief process to help individuals move through complex emotions and find healing in their own time and space, particularly when the loss occurred long ago.
Grief Over Dreams or Lost Potential - EMDR can help individuals grieve not just the loss of loved ones but also the loss of dreams, unfulfilled potential, or life paths that were never realized.
Corporate and Organizational Settings
Employee Stress Reduction - EMDR can be integrated into corporate wellness programs to help employees manage stress and reduce burnout. By addressing work-related anxieties, individuals can improve their overall performance and satisfaction in the workplace.
Team Building and Conflict Resolution - Organizations can use EMDR to help resolve interpersonal conflicts or past team dynamics that may be affecting collaboration and productivity.
Healing from Addictive Behaviors
Breaking Addiction Triggers - EMDR can target the emotional triggers that contribute to addiction behaviors, helping individuals process and reframe the experiences that drive their compulsive actions.
Emotional Regulation - EMDR can be used as part of addiction recovery to help individuals develop healthier emotional regulation strategies, minimizing relapse triggers.
EMDR’s ability to work with different types of memories, emotions, and experiences makes it a versatile tool beyond trauma resolution. Creative applications like these highlight how it can help individuals break free from old patterns, enhance personal growth, and unlock new possibilities for success and well-being.
Often a client isn't quite ready for EMDR processing. That’s okay because EMDR is more than just "processing a trauma." A wide range of preparation work can be very effective in creating safety, stabilization and healing. By focusing on incremental changes, we get significant results.
Can i receive EMDR therapy virtually?
Yes, EMDR can be done virtually, and it has become an increasingly popular and effective option for people seeking treatment remotely. Many clinicians now offer virtual EMDR sessions using secure video platforms, which allows clients to access this therapy from the comfort of their homes or other private spaces.
EMDR therapy conducted online is done using guided tapping and follows the same process and protocols as in-person EMDR therapy. During an initial consultation, I can assess the nature of the trauma(s), the impact on functioning, and the ego strength of potential clients for whom online EMDR may be an option.
The effectiveness of virtual EMDR is comparable to in-person sessions for many people. Studies and clinical reports have indicated that, with appropriate training and setup, virtual EMDR can help individuals experience similar benefits to those achieved in traditional face-to-face therapy, including relief from symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and other emotional distress. During the pandemic, we discovered that EMDR can be done remotely, online. Of course, this is not typically ideal for individuals with C-PTSD or severe dissociation. EMDR Therapy is available to New Yorkers and is reimbursable by your out-of-network insurance. You can also find an EMDR therapist near you by visiting Psychology Today and adding your location to the search bar.
Who can safely offer EMDR Treatment?
As of now, EMDRIA-approved training is only offered to licensed mental health professionals. Ideally, clinicians trained in EMDR have received EMDRIA-approved supervision as they gain experience. As an advanced, EMDRIA-approved, level II EMDR Specialist, I can offer this effective intervention to alleviate symptoms related to trauma as well as other distressing symptoms that now impact the quality of your personal or professional life. EMDR therapy can be offered as a stand-alone therapy, or as an adjunct therapy to your therapy.
Finding an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist in New York City (NYC) involves several steps to ensure you find a qualified professional who meets your needs. Here’s a guide to help you in your search:
Use Online Directories - Websites like Psychology Today (psychologytoday.com), GoodTherapy.org, EMDRIA (emdria.org), and TherapyDen.com allow you to search for therapists by location, specialization (such as EMDR), and other criteria. These directories often provide detailed profiles where therapists list their specialties, credentials, and contact information.
Check EMDR Training - Look for therapists who have received EMDRIA (EMDR International Association) approved EMDR training and supervision. Certification is not necessary to be a qualified, experienced EMDR practitioner.
Ask for Referrals - Seek recommendations from friends, family members, or trusted healthcare providers who may know of EMDR therapists in New York.
Verify Credentials - Ensure that the therapist is licensed to practice psychotherapy in New York State. You can verify their license through the New York State Education Department's Office of the Professions website.
By following these steps and taking the time to research and interview potential EMDR therapists, you can increase your chances of finding a qualified professional in NYC who can provide effective EMDR therapy to address your specific needs.
Holistic Psychotherapy & Wellness NYC specializes in EMDR Therapy & Trauma Resolution virtually
How will I feel after EMDR Sessions?
People often report that they feel tired following an EMDR session. You may or may not be aware that in the hours and days following a session, you will continue to process the material from your session.It’s a good idea to plan your sessions in a way that allows for immediate rest, or at least a return to low-effort tasks. As a result of successful EMDR treatment, your body, emotions, and brain can heal after years of experiencing distress and disconnection. With the help of EMDR Therapy, you may notice even after a few sessions that the feelings and emotions that previously felt too overwhelming and powerful have less hold over you. Typically, successful EMDR therapy leads to improved relationships and functioning in many areas of your life.
Relief - Many people report a sense of relief from intense emotional distress or overwhelming feelings associated with traumatic memories. EMDR therapy aims to reduce the emotional charge and intensity of traumatic memories, leading to a sense of lightness or alleviation.
Calmer - Clients often feel more relaxed and calmer after EMDR sessions. The therapy helps to process and integrate difficult emotions and memories, which can contribute to a greater overall sense of emotional stability.
Increased Clarity - Individuals may experience greater clarity of thought and perception. EMDR therapy can help to reframe negative beliefs or distorted thoughts associated with traumatic experiences, leading to clearer and more balanced thinking.
Empowerment - Clients frequently report feeling more empowered and in control of their emotions and reactions. EMDR therapy aims to strengthen positive beliefs and coping mechanisms, which can enhance feelings of self-efficacy and resilience.
Elevated Mood - As emotional distress is processed and resolved, many individuals notice improvements in mood. They may feel more optimistic, hopeful, and motivated as they continue with therapy.
Integration - Over time, the insights gained and the emotional processing achieved through EMDR therapy can lead to a deeper integration of experiences and memories into one's overall life narrative. This integration can contribute to a greater sense of wholeness and coherence.
Transient Discomfort - It's important to note that immediately after EMDR sessions, some individuals may experience temporary discomfort or heightened emotional sensitivity as they adjust to the changes occurring within themselves. This typically subsides as the therapeutic process continues.
Gradual Improvement - EMDR therapy often involves a series of sessions spread out over time. Improvement in symptoms and overall well-being tends to be gradual and progressive, with cumulative benefits observed over the course of treatment.
How is EMDR therapy different from other therapies?
EMDR therapy does not require talking in detail about the distressing issue (traditional talk therapy) or completing homework (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) between sessions. EMDR therapy allows the brain to resume 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.
EMDR therapy is evidence-based and backed by research Trauma Treatment…
EMDR therapy is known for its ability to facilitate accelerated symptom reduction compared to traditional therapy methods. Studies have indicated that, depending on the complexity of trauma examined, EMDR can lead to noticeable improvements in PTSD, depression, and anxiety symptoms after just a few sessions, offering individuals a more expedited path toward healing and recovery. This accelerated progress can be particularly beneficial for those seeking relief from distressing symptoms and looking to reclaim a sense of stability and well-being in their lives.
Compared to traditional forms of therapy such as CBT, EMDR has proven to be more effective as a healing modality because it addresses the root cause of distressful symptoms. Clients utilizing EMDR appear to have less chance of their problems returning in the future after treatment is complete, because healing is believed to take place at the level of the nervous system. EMDR has been broadly studied and has been proven to be effective by extensive research.
EMDR is now accepted as a treatment of choice by trauma organizations and mental health organizations around the world. EMDR has been approved as an effective treatment for PTSD by the respected American Psychological Association, American Psychiatric Association, The Department of Defense and the Veteran's Administration, The International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, The World Health Organization, and more. For more information about EMDR you can visit the EMDR Institute.
EMDR is highly-researched, and has the validation of the American Psychological Association, the American Psychiatric Association, the Department of Defense and the Veteran’s Administration, as it relates to treatments for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD. People who have participated in performance enhancement therapy such as competitive athletes and performers often report that they are more self-confident and that unconscious blocks to performance are greatly reduced.
research & EMDR Treatment
What’s being said about EMDR:
"EMDR therapy was determined to be an effective treatment of trauma." American Psychiatric Association (2004). Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients with Acute Stress Disorder and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients with Acute Stress Disorder and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder. Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association Practice Guidelines.
"EMDR therapy was placed in the "A" category as “strongly recommended” for the treatment of trauma." Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense (2004). VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Post-Traumatic Stress. Washington, DC
EMDR is a therapy is listed in the new Department of Veterans Affairs & Department of Defense Practice Guidelines "A" category as "highly recommended" for the treatment of trauma.
It has received a high level of recommendation by the American Psychiatric Association and by the mental health departments of Israel, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, France, Sweden and more. For a full listing visit http://www.EMDRHAP.org/researchandresources.htm to learn more.
EMDR is also listed as an effective form of therapy, backed by research, on a new National Institute of Mental Health sponsored website: Check under "Adult MH Therapist for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder."
Prince Harry uses the “butterfly tap” as bilateral stimulation, which facilitates healing from traumatic experiences in a Virtual EMDR session with his UK-based therapist.
Introduction to EMDR Therapy from EMDR International Association.
Additional Information About The Effectiveness Of NYC EMDR Treatment…
EMDR is a revolutionary approach that incorporates bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or sounds) to help the brain process and integrate disturbing and upsetting memories. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy heals the pain of disturbing memories, minimizes physiological triggers, and frees you from challenging beliefs, trapped emotions, and unwelcome, uncomfortable body sensations. Reprocessing traumatic memories with EMDR creates resiliency and can transform surviving to thriving…
The body’s natural inclination is to heal and return to optimal mental and physical health. When we experience a trauma that has overwhelmed the nervous system, our ability to heal fully is disrupted. This leaves parts of us stuck in the past and impedes our well-being in the present. EMDR Therapy offers a targeted treatment protocol to help resolve the trauma's impact on the nervous system and allow healing to resume. Through a time-limited EMDR intervention, patients can resolve and get relief from a single, or multiple traumas. It may take a few sessions or many, but healing is possible.
Transcending traumatic or painful experiences is not as simple as changing your perspective. When you attempt to override your emotions, you will experience anxiety, sadness, depression, doubt, fear, self-criticism, disconnect, isolation, shame, and much more, leading to a contracted and diminished life. It is believed that suppressed emotions can even make you physically unwell. Perhaps unprocessed, distressing memories from your childhood are interfering with your ability to form and maintain close and intimate relationships. At some point, you may find that you experience performance and creativity blocks or challenges in your career.
Fight, flight, freeze, and other trauma responses may be so habitual that you have become accustomed to this way of being. This is your nervous system most of the time.
EMDR therapy is founded on the basis that trauma interferes with our brain’s processing. The theoretical basis for EMDR is called Adaptive Information Processing or AIP. AIP posits that during trauma our brain processes and stores memories incorrectly. How these memories are stored can lead to memories feeling very real and present. Experiencing related or unrelated stimuli in the present can lead to patients reacting as they did at the time of trauma. The brain and nervous system experience the current event as if it were a past disturbing event. EMDR therapy uses a technique called bilateral stimulation that aids in the reprocessing of negative experiences with the goal of these memories feeling less disruptive in the here and now.
I am licensed to practice EMDR Therapy and Psychotherapy in New York and online, virtual EMDR. I offer EMDR as an adjunctive treatment (in collaboration with your primary therapist), as part of more comprehensive therapy (integrated into our therapy sessions), or as a stand-alone and short-term treatment.
What follows is a comprehensive list of challenges that improve after eMDR therapy…
The studies to date show a high degree of effectiveness with the following conditions:
PTSD
Childhood trauma or traumatic memories
Depression
Anxiety or panic attacks
Anger and rage problems
Intense anxiety, phobias and fears (fear of flying, bridges, tunnels)
Social anxiety
Fear of being alone or abandoned
Feeling unlovable
Unrealistic guilt and shame
Addictions and smoking cessation
Compulsions and habit control
OCD
Chemically dependent clients
Depression
Dissociation, DID
Managing anger and rage problems
Insomnia and sleep disorders, relaxation difficulties
Medical/surgical/diagnosis trauma
Attachment disorders
Eating disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder) and body image issues
Performance and test anxiety
Sexual abuse and/or physical abuse
Surviving an assault, robbery or rape
Witnessing violence, a victim of a crime
Loss or injury of a loved one, injury to self
Childhood trauma, abuse or traumatic memories
Surviving an accident
Low self-esteem
Motivation and procrastination
Unrealistic feelings of guilt and shame
911 victims, police officers, firemen, rescue workers with violent memories
Difficulties with trust
Relationship problems and interpersonal problems
Life transitions such as divorce recovery, childbirth and aging
EMDR Therapy To Heal Addictive States
(Feeling State Addiction Protocol, FSAP)
Can EMDR successfully treat addictions?
For years the addiction field has held that addictions were caused by genetics. We now know that, while the gene may be passed from parent to child, the expression of a gene can be influenced by negative and positive environmental factors. The Feeling State Addiction Protocol or FSAP developed by Dr Robert Miller works from the theory that addictions and compulsions develop in the moment an individual experiences an “intensely desired positive feeling while engaging in a specific behavior.” The intense positive feelings that are experienced in that moment are powerful, and when combined with the individual's unique history and emotional vulnerability, the positive "feeling state" (e.g. "I'm okay," "I am loved," or "I'm a winner") becomes neurologically wired with the problem behavior. As a result, the individual will compulsively seek to recreate the gratifying "feeling state" by engaging in the behavior (e.g. gambling, sex addiction, shopping, shop-lifting, exhibitionism, voyeurism, substance use, overeating or restricting), while compromising healthy psychological development.
When successful, the Feeling State Addiction Protocol breaks this neurological welding, similar to the way standard EMDR frees the “stuck” traumatic memory at the level of the nervous system. As the positive feeling state and the behavior become "de-linked," individuals find that their urges to engage in the addictive and compulsive behaviors diminish and may even disappear. As a result, the individual's vulnerability and original trauma create discomfort and can no longer be numbed with the familiar addictive and compulsive behaviors. A return to the standard EMDR Protocol can then be used to resolve the painful experiences that led to the "need" that is at the root cause of many addictions.
Addiction and examples of co-occurring psychiatric conditions:
Depression
Panic and anxiety disorders
Attention deficit disorder ADD
Bipolar disorder
Borderline personality disorder BPD
Narcissistic Personality Disorder NPD
Eating disorders
Post-traumatic stress disorder PTSD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder OCD
Substance abuse or dependence
EMDR Therapy & Somatic Experiencing
“All Successful Healing Methods Help People Establish A Connection To Their Body. Those Methods That Do Not Help People Connect To Their Body Have Limited If Any, Success.” — Peter Levine, PHD
Somatic Experiencing is a form of therapy aimed at relieving and resolving the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental and physical trauma-related health problems by focusing on the client’s perceived body sensations (somatic experiences). It was introduced in Dr. Peter Levine's 1997 book "Waking the Tiger." In it, he discusses his observations of animals in the wild, and how they deal with, and recover from life-threatening situations. He concludes that their behavior gives us "an insight into the biological healing process" (p.98), and that "the key to healing traumatic symptoms in humans lies in our being able to mirror the fluid adaption of wild animals" (p.17-18) as they avoid traumatization in reacting to life-threatening situations. The theory postulates that the symptoms of trauma are the effect of a dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). It further postulates that the ANS has an inherent capacity to self-regulate that is negatively impacted by trauma. The inherent capacity to self-regulate can be restored by the procedures of Somatic Experiencing or SE.
The procedure, that is normally done in a face-to-face session similar to psychotherapy, involves a client tracking his or her own "felt-sense" experience. Practitioners consider SE to be effective for Shock Trauma in the short term (typically one to six sessions). It is also considered effective for Developmental Trauma as an adjunct to more conventional psychotherapy that may span years. Somatic Experiencing is very effective when combined with EMDR sessions and traditional talk therapy or psychotherapy.
Somatic Experiencing attempts to promote awareness and release of physical tension that proponents believe is stored and remains in the body in the aftermath of trauma. This occurs when the survival responses (orienting, fight, flight or freeze) of the ANS are aroused but are not fully discharged after the traumatic situation has passed. The process involves a guided exploration of the nature and extent of the physical dysregulation that is harbored in the body as a result of trauma. Another notion is that the client's experience should be "pendulated." "Pendulation" refers to the movement between regulation and dysregulation. The client is helped to move to a state where he or she is believed to be somewhat dysregulated (i.e. aroused, distressed or frozen) and then helped to return to a state of regulation (loosely defined as not aroused or frozen). "Resources" are defined as anything that helps the client's autonomic nervous system return to a regulated state. In the face of arousal, "discharge" is facilitated to allow the client's body to return to a regulated state. Through this process, the client's inherent capacity to self-regulate is believed to be restored.
Somatic Experiencing is considered by its practitioners to be useful for two broad categories of trauma: shock trauma and developmental trauma. Shock trauma is loosely defined as a single-episode traumatic event such as an accident, natural disaster, battlefield incident, etc. Developmental trauma refers to various kinds of psychological damage that occur during child development, such as chronic abuse; insufficient attention and neglect from the primary caregivers; and insufficient nurturing relationship with the parent.
Brainspotting & EMDR Blended Therapy
“Brainspotting Is Based On The Profound Attunement Of The Therapist With The Patient, Finding A Somatic Cue And Extinguishing It By Down-Regulating The Amygdala. It Isn’t Just PNS (Parasympathetic Nervous System) Activation That Is Facilitated, It Is Homeostasis.” — Robert Scaer, MD “The Trauma Spectrum”
Brainspotting was discovered by David Grand, Ph.D. in 2003. Since then, Brainspotting has developed into an in-depth therapeutic process that can be integrated with psychotherapy sessions in either individual or couples therapy. Dr. Grand believes that “Brainspotting taps into the body’s natural self-scanning and self-healing abilities”.
Brainspotting therapy is a new and powerful method of healing developed from EMDR. Brainspotting as a technique is used in psychotherapy and trauma resolution therapy to help release depression, fear, anxiety, grief, loss, phobias, and addictions. It is possible to release the trauma or traumatic event from either a distressed or calm place in the body. The power of BSP is that one does not necessarily have to relive the traumatic event at the same level of intensity as the original trauma. BSP is helpful for pre-verbal traumas, that is, trauma that occurred before the child had language to organize the experience. Because of this, it is possible to resolve the trauma in a safe and contained manner. Trauma and stress can often overwhelm the nervous system. With the support of an experienced EMDR and Brainspotting therapist, BSP helps the client discharge the trauma and calm the nervous system. BSP helps clients identify, process, and release core neurophysiological sources of emotional or physical pain, trauma, dissociation, and a variety of other challenging psychiatric and somatic symptoms.
Brainspotting (BSP) functions as a neurobiological tool to support the therapeutic relationship in which the therapist’s mature, nurturing presence and ability to engage the client creates a healing space. It is theorized that Brainspotting, like EMDR, triggers the body’s innate self-scanning capacity to process and release focused areas (systems) that are in maladaptive (frozen primitive survival modes). This may also explain the ability of Brainspotting to reduce and eliminate body pain and tension associated with chronic physical conditions.
Generally, the brainspot is located by finding an eye position where the emotion is most strongly felt. A brainspot can also be located in the calmest place in the body. Pinpointing the brainspot is done by noticing an increase in the reflexive eye or body movements, such as blinking, swallowing, yawning, and head or body twitches. Neurologists state that the location of the brainspot “is related to the area or region of the patient’s experience or perception of the traumatic event and represents procedural memory for that somatic experience”.
Brainspotting sessions can be accompanied by the use of biolateral sounds to facilitate processing. Biolateral sounds can be music, tones or even nature sounds that move from ear to ear alternately to activate each hemisphere of the brain. Dr. Grand developed a series of biolateral CDs that can be used during a Brainspotting session. They were initially developed for use with EMDR. These sounds help calm the sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight response) and engage the calmer parasympathetic nervous system.
Brainspotting is unique from other therapeutic techniques because it is also used in performance enhancement and sports psychology. Therapists are utilizing BSP with professional athletes, actors, writers, and musicians, as well as clients who experience stress during public speaking. Meditation practices can also be enhanced through the use of Brainspotting.
David Grand, PhD, the developer of Brainspotting, is an internationally recognized trauma expert. He has devoted his life to advancing, expanding, and communicating state-of-the-art tools for healing trauma and enhancing performance. He is the author of Emotional Healing at Warp Speed: the Power of EMDR and trains healthcare professionals around the US, Europe, South America, and the Middle East.
The History Of EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapy developed by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro. She made the chance observation that eye movements can reduce the intensity of the disturbing thoughts when she noticed her own stress reactions diminished when her eyes swept back and forth as she walked through a park one day. EMDR involves recalling a stressful past event and “reprogramming” the memory in the light of a positive, self-chosen belief, while using rapid eye movements to facilitate the process. Theories as to why EMDR works are still evolving, but many people have found EMDR to be extremely beneficial.
8 Phases Of Treatment
The amount of time the complete treatment will take depends upon the history of the client. Complete treatment of the targets involves a three pronged protocol (1-past memories, 2-present disturbance, 3-future actions), and are needed to alleviate the symptoms and address the complete clinical picture. The goal of EMDR therapy is to process completely the experiences that are causing problems, and to include new ones that are needed for full health. "Processing" does not mean talking about it. "Processing" means setting up a learning state that will allow experiences that are causing problems to be "digested" and stored appropriately in your brain. That means that what is useful to you from an experience will be learned, and stored with appropriate emotions in your brain, and be able to guide you in positive ways in the future. The inappropriate emotions, beliefs, and body sensations will be discarded. Negative emotions, feelings and behaviors are generally caused by unresolved earlier experiences that are pushing you in the wrong directions. The goal of EMDR therapy is to leave you with the emotions, understanding, and perspectives that will lead to healthy and useful behaviors and interactions.
Phase 1: History and Treatment Planning
Generally takes 1-2 sessions at the beginning of therapy, and can continue throughout the therapy, especially if new problems are revealed. In the first phase of EMDR treatment, the therapist takes a thorough history of the client and develops a treatment plan. This phase will include a discussion of the specific problem that has brought him into therapy, his behaviors stemming from that problem, and his symptoms. With this information, the therapist will develop a treatment plan that defines the specific targets on which to use EMDR. These targets include the event(s) from the past that created the problem, the present situations that cause distress, and the key skills or behaviors the client needs to learn for his future well-being. One of the unusual features of EMDR is that the person seeking treatment does not have to discuss any of his disturbing memories in detail.
Phase 2: Preparation
For most clients this will take only 1-3 sessions. For others, with a very traumatic background, or with certain diagnoses, a longer time may be necessary to create a sense of safety. Basically, your clinician will teach you some specific techniques so you can rapidly deal with any emotional disturbance that may arise. If you can do that, you are generally able to proceed to the next phase. One of the primary goals of the preparation phase is to establish a relationship of trust between the client and the therapist. During the Preparation Phase, the clinician will explain the theory of EMDR, how it is done, and what the person can expect during and after treatment. Finally, the clinician will teach the client a variety of relaxation techniques for calming himself/herself in the face of any emotional disturbance that may arise during or after a session. Learning these tools is important for everyone and especially and EMDR client. One goal of EMDR therapy is to make sure that the client learns self care, self soothing techniques and relaxation.
Phase 3: Assessment
Used to access each target in a controlled and standardized way so it can be effectively processed. Processing does not mean talking about it. The therapist identifies the aspects of the target to be processed. The first step is for the person to select a specific picture or scene from the target event (which was identified during Phase One) that best represents the memory. Then the client chooses a statement that expresses a negative self-belief associated with the event. Even if he intellectually knows that the statement is false. These negative beliefs are actually verbalizations of the disturbing emotions that still exist. Common negative cognitions are "I am helpless," " I am worthless," " I am unlovable," " I am dirty," " I am bad," etc. The client then picks a positive self-statement that he would rather believe. This statement should incorporate an internal sense of control such as "I am worthwhile/ lovable/ a good person/ in control" or "I can succeed." "I am in danger" can be considered a negative cognition, because the fear is inappropriate - it is locked in the nervous system, but the danger is actually past. The client will then be asked to rate the cognitions as well as identify any body sensations associated with these cognitions.
Reprocessing
For a single trauma reprocessing is generally accomplished within 3 sessions. If it takes longer, you should see some improvement within that amount of time. Phases One through Three lay the groundwork for the comprehensive treatment and reprocessing of the specific targeted events. Although the eye movements (or taps, or tones) are used during the following three phases, they are only one component of a complex therapy. The use of the step-by-step eight-phase approach allows the experienced, trained EMDR clinician to maximize the treatment effects for the client in a logical and standardized fashion. It also allows both the client and the clinician to monitor the progress during every treatment session.
Phase 4: Desensitization
This phase focuses on the client's disturbing emotions and sensations as they are measured by the SUDs rating. This phase deals with all of the person's responses (including other memories, insights and associations that may arise) as the targeted event changes and its disturbing elements are resolved. This phase gives the opportunity to identify and resolve similar events that may have occurred and are associated with the target. During desensitization, the therapist leads the person in sets of eye movement (or other forms of stimulation) with appropriate shifts and changes of focus until his SUD-scale levels are reduced to zero (or 1 or 2 if this is more appropriate). Starting with the main target, the different associations to the memory are followed. For instance, a person may start with a horrific event and soon have other associations to it. The clinician will guide the client to a complete resolution of the target. Examples of sessions and a three-session transcript of a complete treatment can be found in F. Shapiro & M.S. Forrest (2004) EMDR. New York: Basic Books.
Phase 5: Installation
The goal is to concentrate on and increase the strength of the positive belief that the person has identified to replace his original negative belief. For example, the client might begin with a mental image of being beaten up by his father and a negative belief of "I am powerless." During the Desensitization Phase, he will have reprocessed the terror of that childhood event and fully realized that as an adult he now has the strength and choices he didn't have when he was young. During this fifth phase of treatment, his positive cognition, "I am now in control," will be strengthened and installed. How deeply the person believes his positive cognition is then measured using the Validity of Cognition (VOC) scale. The goal is for the person to accept the full truth of his positive self-statement at a level of 7 (completely true). Fortunately, just as EMDR cannot make anyone shed appropriate negative feelings, it cannot make the person believe anything positive that is not appropriate either. So if the person is aware that he actually needs to learn some new skill, such as self-defense training, in order to be truly in control of the situation, the validity of his positive belief will rise only to the corresponding level, such as a 5 or 6 on the VOC scale.
Phase 6: Body scan
After the positive cognition has been strengthened and installed, the therapist will ask the person to bring the original target event to mind and see if he notices any residual tension in his body. If so, these physical sensations are then targeted for reprocessing. Evaluations of thousands of EMDR sessions indicate that there is a physical response to unresolved thoughts. This finding has been supported by independent studies of memory indicating that when a person is negatively affected by trauma, information about the traumatic event is stored in motoric (or body systems) memory, rather than narrative memory, and retains the negative emotions and physical sensations of the original event. When that information is processed, however, it can then move to narrative (or verbalizable) memory and the body sensations and negative feelings associated with it disappear. Therefore, an EMDR session is not considered successful until the client can bring up the original target without feeling any body tension. Positive self-beliefs are important, but they have to be believed on more than just an intellectual level.
Phase 7: Closure
Ends every treatment session The Closure ensures that the person leaves at the end of each session feeling better than at the beginning. If the processing of the traumatic target event is not complete in a single session, the therapist will assist the person in using a variety of self-calming techniques in order to regain a sense of equilibrium. Throughout the EMDR session, the client has been in control (for instance, he is instructed that it is okay to raise his hand in the "stop" gesture at anytime) and it is important that the client continue to feel in control outside the therapist's office. He is also briefed on what to expect between sessions (some processing may continue, some new material may arise), how to use a journal to record these experiences, and which techniques he might use on his own to help him feel more calm.
Phase 8: Reevaluation
Opens every new session At the beginning of subsequent sessions, the therapist checks to make sure that the positive results (low SUDs, high VOC, no body tension) have been maintained, identifies any new areas that need treatment, and continues reprocessing the additional targets. The Reevaluation Phase guides the clinician through the treatment plans that are needed in order to deal with the client? s problems. As with any form of good therapy, the Reevaluation Phase is vital in order to determine the success of the treatment over time. Although clients may feel relief almost immediately with EMDR, it is as important to complete the eight phases of treatment.
Past, Present and Future
Although EMDR may produce results more rapidly than previous forms of therapy, speed is not the issue and it is important to remember that every client has different needs. For instance, one client may take weeks to establish sufficient feelings of trust (Phase Two), while another may proceed quickly through the first six phases of treatment only to reveal, then, something even more important that needs treatment. Also, treatment is not complete until EMDR therapy has focused on the past memories that are contributing to the problem, the present situations that are disturbing, and what skills the client may need for the future.
Above excerpt from: F. Shapiro & M.S. Forrest (2004) EMDR: The Breakthrough Therapy for Anxiety, Stress and Trauma. New York: BasicBooks.
Books About EMDR
Calm and Confident: Overcome Stress and Anxiety With EMDR -Mark Grant. Two guided visualizations, soothing music, and EMDR combine to help listeners relax and feel more confident about dealing with stress and anxiety-producing situations. A instruction booklet included.
EMDR: The Breakthrough Therapy for Overcoming Anxiety, Stress, and Trauma -Francine Shapiro, & Margot Silk-Forrest. EMDR explained and includes many case histories.
EMDR: Transforming Trauma - Laurel Parnell. Basic EMDR information for the general public as well as psychotherapists. Dr.Parnell writes from a transpersonal perspective about her experiences with EMDR.
Small Wonders: Healing Childhood Trauma with EMDR - Joan Lovett, M.D. Collection of stories about children, adolescents and adults who have puzzling symptoms and anxiety. It offers therapists who treat children and do inner child work, a unique look at the EMDR process and valuable clinical histories. EMDR information is explained in a easily understandable way for clients. She is adept at integrating EMDR into multidimensional therapeutic contexts.
Helpful Books for EMDR Clinicians:
Finding the Energy to Heal: How EMDR, Hypnosis, TFT, Imagery, and Body-Focused Therapy Can Help Resolve Health Problems - Maggie Phillips. An excellent book for EMDR practitioners. The author explains concepts like positive image installation, positive target image, conflict free image, resource interweave, ego state therapy during EMDR without hypnosis, re-nurturing interweaves, developmental learning interweaves, concepts and procedures related to the safe place and safe place image, temporal resource interweaves, and many concepts and resources that can be useful to the EMDR clinician.
EMDR in the Treatment of Adults Abused as Children - Laurel Parnell, Ph.D
A Therapist's Guide to EMDR: Tools and Techniques for Successful Treatment - Laurel Parnell, PhD.
EMDR and Psychotherapy Integration: Theoretical and Clinical Suggestions With Focus on Traumatic Stress - Lipke, H. Lipke integrates EMDR practice with behavioral, dynamic, and humanistic psychotherapy.
EMDR Solutions: Pathways to Healing - Robin Shapiro
EMDR Solutions II: For Depression, Eating Disorders, Performance, and More - Robin Shapiro
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures - Francine Shapiro. Theoretical conceptualization of EMDR is outlined by Dr. Shapiro. Most of the information presented at the Level I and II EMDR trainings.
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing EMDR) in Child and Adolescent Therapy - Ricky A. Greenwald, PsyD.
Extending EMDR: A Casebook of Innovative Applications - Philip Mansfield.
Healing the Divided Self: Clinical and Ericksonian Hypnotherapy for Post-Traumatic and Dissociative Conditions - Maggie Phillips & Claire Frederick. This book doesn't discuss EMDR, specifically but it does discusses Ego State Therapy as well as dissociation, hypnosis, and other relevant topics to EMDR Therapists.
Pain Control With EMDR - Mark Grant. Designed to minimize all kinds of pain, including chronic, postoperative, and migraine, the cassette and booklet contain two visualizations of pain-relieving imagery. (audio cassette)
Trauma in the Lives of Children: Crisis and Stress Management Techniques for Teachers
Counselors, and Student Service Professionals - Kendall Johnson. This book is for the professionals who treat children and adolescents. The second edition includes information about the advances in the understanding of memory and Post-traumatic stress in children. Includes a chapter on EMDR therapy.
Transforming Trauma: EMDR: The Revolutionary New Therapy for Freeing the Mind, Clearing the Body, and Opening the Heart - Laurel Parnell, Ph.D. Dr. Parnell takes the reader into her own experience as a EMDR therapist and her clients abuse histories sharing how traumatic events frozen in time are released by using EMDR method.
Through the Eyes of a Child: EMDR with Children - Robert H. Tinker, Sandy A. Wilson, Robbie Dutton, Sandra D. Wilson. This books shows how EMDR can be successfully applied to helping children over come childhood trauma. The EMDR protocol is modified so it can be applied to children as young as two years old. There are many case examples including, phobias, auto accidents, breavement, ADHD, anxiety, depression and reactive attachment disorders and eating disorders.
Neurobiology & Attachment Books
Affect Regulation and the Origin of the Self: The Neurobiology of Emotional Development - Allan N. Schore
The Developing Mind: Toward a Neurobiology of Interpersonal Experience - Daniel Siegel Skills Training Manual for Treating Borderline Personality Disorder - Marsha M. Linehan. DBT solutions and support for psychotherapists working with clients diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder
About NYC EMDR Therapy
This practice provides a range of psychological & wellness services in NYC and throughout NY state. The goal is to individualize treatment to your unique physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual needs. I have experience working with a broad range of symptoms and approaches in psychotherapy, including but not limited to EMDR Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Holistic Mind-Body Medicine. Therapy begins with a therapeutic consultation, where you will gather a wealth of information about your difficulties. Many people feel better after the first session. The initial consultation also lays the groundwork for future treatment as we determine the best modalities to help you heal.
NYC EMDR Therapist With Nearly 20 Years Of Experience
This practice offers supportive, compassionate, and comprehensive care, staying current on research related to mental health. My goal is to use my expertise and extensive training to get you back to living your life as quickly as possible.
Book An Appointment For NYC EMDR Therapy Today
Book an appointment directly or text 212-529-8292 to get started. Integrative Psychotherapy & Wellness Manhattan can help you with your healing journey guiding you towards optimal mental health.