How to Know if EMDR Therapy is Right For You
What Is Trauma, and How Does It Impact Your Daily Life?
Do you ever feel like something from your past is holding you back or that you keep repeating the same cycles and can’t figure out why? Maybe certain situations make you anxious, or you’re easily overwhelmed. I know this was the case for me. I was an anxious individual who struggled with overthinking and overanalyzing everything in my life. My family knew me as being indecisive and taking forever to make up my mind. I didn’t want to make the wrong decision and regret it, so I was often stuck in “analysis paralysis.” Little did I know this was a trauma response that I developed from childhood trauma I experienced.
Trauma isn’t always about big, life-altering events. It can also stem from experiences that left you feeling helpless or unsafe. These moments get stored in your brain and body in ways that can show up as:
Difficulty focusing or making decisions
Feeling stuck in negative thought patterns
Overreacting to situations that seem small
Struggling with sleep or having nightmares
Avoiding people, places, or things that remind you of a painful experience
If you’re a mom, you might notice your trauma seeping into your parenting. Maybe you’re overly critical of yourself, struggle to stay patient, or worry about how your past might affect your kids. I know I can relate to this. There have been many times as a parent where I was not present or distracted when my kids were trying to talk to me, or I was irritable and lashed out, only to later regret it. Trauma affects every part of your life, but the good news is you don’t have to stay stuck, and EMDR therapy might be the resolution you are seeking.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy was developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in 1987 and is a powerful way to help heal from trauma. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses on how your brain processes and stores memories. Traumatic memories can get stuck, and EMDR helps your brain "unstick" them so you can move forward.
How Does EMDR Therapy Work?
EMDR therapy uses bilateral stimulation—eye movements, bilateral movements, and/or sounds—to help your brain reprocess traumatic memories. It sounds simple, but it’s backed by science and has helped millions worldwide.
During EMDR, your therapist will guide you through the process. You don’t have to relive the trauma in detail. Instead, you focus on specific memories, and the bilateral stimulation helps your brain process them more gently. Over time, the emotional charge tied to those memories fades, and you feel less activated and more in control.
What Does an EMDR Session Look Like?
Considering EMDR therapy, you might wonder what a session is like. Here’s what to expect:
Building Trust: Your EMDR therapist will start by getting to know you and understanding your goals. This is an essential step because feeling safe is key to the process.
Preparation: You’ll learn techniques, such as deep breathing or visualizing a calm place, to help you stay grounded and calm during sessions.
Targeting Memories: Together, you’ll identify specific memories, thoughts, or feelings to work on. You won’t have to share every detail unless you want to.
Reprocessing: Your therapist will guide you as you focus on the memory using bilateral stimulation. Your brain will naturally begin to process it, reducing its emotional impact.
Reflection: After each session, you and your therapist will discuss what came up and how you’re feeling. Your therapist will ensure that you leave the session feeling stable and supported.
How Can EMDR Help You?
EMDR therapy has been shown to help with:
Reducing anxiety and panic attacks
Improving sleep and reducing nightmares
Easing feelings of guilt, shame, or self-blame
Helping you feel more present and connected to yourself and others
If you’ve tried other forms of therapy without much success, EMDR might be the missing piece. It’s especially effective for trauma, but it can also help with issues like low self-esteem, chronic stress, or emotional eating.
EMDR addresses the root cause of your struggles rather than just the symptoms. For example, if emotional eating is a way you cope with stress or trauma, EMDR can help you uncover and heal the deeper wounds driving those behaviors.
Ready to learn more about how EMDR therapy can help you heal? Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if it’s a good fit for you.
Tips for Finding the Right EMDR Therapist
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but it’s worthwhile. Here are some tips to help:
Look for Experience: Choose someone who specializes in trauma therapy and has specific training in EMDR.
Schedule a Consultation: Many EMDR therapists offer a free initial consultation. Use this time to ask about their approach, experience with EMDR, and how they would tailor therapy to your needs. This conversation can help you decide if they’re the right fit for you.
Trust Your Gut: Feeling safe and comfortable with your therapist is crucial. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to keep looking.
Consider Accessibility: If you live in Idaho, online therapy offers a convenient and effective way to access EMDR therapy without leaving home.
Common Misconceptions About EMDR Therapy
It’s natural to feel hesitant about trying something different, such as EMDR therapy. So, let's clear up some common misconceptions to ease your mind a little:
“I’ll have to relive my trauma in detail.” While EMDR focuses on past experiences, you don’t have to share every detail with your therapist. The process is designed to be safe and manageable.
“It’s only for people with severe trauma.” EMDR can help with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, low self-esteem, and emotional eating. You don’t need to have experienced a major traumatic event to benefit.
“I don’t want to get stuck in my trauma.” After an EMDR session, you might experience discomforting emotions. However, this should only last for a couple of days. After processing their target memory, most people notice more relief and a lighter feeling.
“I’m afraid it won’t work on me, or I won’t do it right.” This is a common fear, but your therapist will guide you every step of the way. There’s no “right” way to experience EMDR, and the process is tailored to your needs.
“It’s a quick fix.” EMDR is a powerful tool, but healing takes time and commitment. Your progress will depend on your willingness to engage with the process.
Is EMDR Therapy Right for You?
EMDR therapy is an excellent option if:
You feel stuck in patterns of fear, anxiety, or self-doubt
You’ve experienced trauma or have painful memories that won’t go away
You want to heal at a deeper level, not just manage symptoms
EMDR is also good for a structured approach with clear steps and goals. It can be life-changing, but it’s not a quick fix. It requires commitment and a willingness to face uncomfortable emotions. If you’re ready to take that step, EMDR can help you create the peace and freedom you deserve.
Why Online Therapy in Idaho Is a Great Option
If you’re in Idaho, online therapy makes it easier than ever to access EMDR therapy. You can connect with a trauma therapist from your home, saving time and energy. Plus, online therapy can feel less intimidating if you’re nervous about starting.
Online therapy is also an excellent solution for busy moms, professionals, or anyone who finds it challenging to schedule in-person sessions. If you have access to the Internet, you can connect with an EMDR therapist who specifically meets your needs, regardless of where you live.
Take the Next Step Toward Healing
If you are ready to stop feeling controlled by your past trauma and start healing, EMDR therapy could be the answer. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, anxiety, or emotional eating, I’m here to help.
Contact me today for a free consultation, and let’s explore how EMDR therapy can support your healing journey.
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Jarae Swanstrom is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor practicing online throughout Idaho. She believes in a holistic approach to therapy, focusing on healing the whole body. Jarae helps women heal trauma, disordered eating, and negative body image. Learn more about Jarae or schedule a free consultation at mountainrivertherapy.com.
