EMDR Therapy – A Path Toward Healing

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful, evidence-based therapy that helps people process and release painful memories—often more efficiently than traditional talk therapy. Developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in 1987, EMDR combines bilateral stimulation with guided memory processing to reduce emotional distress and reshape unhelpful beliefs.

At JBCounseling with Jennifer Lipkins, LMHC, EMDR is delivered with care, precision, and clinical integrity—backed by ongoing training recognized by the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA), ensuring you receive top-tier therapy.

EMDR and Trauma

Many people seek EMDR because of unresolved trauma—whether from childhood experiences, abuse, accidents, or other painful life events. Trauma often leaves the brain “stuck” in a heightened state of alert, leading to flashbacks, anxiety, or emotional numbing.

EMDR helps the brain reprocess these memories in a safe and structured way. Instead of reliving the event, you are guided through the memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation. This process helps the memory lose its intense emotional charge, allowing healing and resilience to take root.

Research shows EMDR is one of the most effective treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and it’s recognized worldwide as a gold-standard approach.

How EMDR Helps with Anxiety

Anxiety can show up as constant worry, panic attacks, or physical symptoms like a racing heart. EMDR addresses the root causes of anxiety by targeting past experiences and thought patterns that keep the nervous system in overdrive.

Unlike exposure therapies, EMDR doesn’t require you to repeatedly relive distressing events. Instead, it gently shifts how your brain stores and responds to those memories—helping you feel calmer, more grounded, and in control.

EMDR and OCD: A New Way Forward

For people with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors can feel overwhelming. EMDR works by reducing the distress tied to these thoughts and memories. Over time, this lessens the need for compulsive rituals and helps clients break free from the OCD cycle.

Although EMDR is not a cure-all, emerging research and clinical experience show promising results when it is integrated into an individualized OCD treatment plan.

EMDR with Adolescents

Adolescence can be a time of change, pressure, and vulnerability. Teens may struggle with trauma, anxiety, depression, or self-esteem concerns. EMDR adapts beautifully for adolescents, helping them process experiences in a way that feels safe and age-appropriate.

For many young clients, EMDR brings lasting benefits such as improved emotional regulation, reduced anxiety, and greater resilience—allowing them to thrive socially, academically, and personally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How many sessions does EMDR take?
It varies, but many people notice relief within a handful of sessions.

2. What issues can EMDR help with?
Beyond trauma, EMDR can be effective for anxiety, depression, OCD, grief, phobias, and more.

3. Is EMDR the same as hypnosis?
No—EMDR is not hypnosis. You are awake, aware, and in control throughout the process.

4. Is EMDR like CBT?
Not exactly. CBT focuses on changing thought patterns through practice and homework, while EMDR reprocesses the memories and emotions driving those thoughts.

5. Are there side effects?
Some people notice vivid dreams or temporary emotional shifts. These usually resolve quickly and are part of the healing process.

6. Can EMDR help teens?
Yes—EMDR is highly effective with adolescents and can be tailored to their developmental needs.

Take the Next Step

You don’t have to stay stuck in painful memories, anxiety, or patterns that no longer serve you. Healing is possible, and EMDR can be a powerful part of that journey.

If you’re curious about how EMDR might help, I invite you to:

Watch the EMDRIA video above to learn more
Reach out today to schedule a consultation

Together, we can explore whether EMDR is the right fit for your healing and growth.

Ready to Begin?

Contact me today to get started with EMDR therapy.