EMDR Therapy

What Is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a groundbreaking type of counseling to treat PTSD from traumatic events. EMDR is a scientifically backed tool for healing proven to help clients overcome the intense symptoms of past trauma and instill genuine positive thoughts.

This powerful form of therapy was developed by Francine Shapiro after her remarkable discovery of the stress-reducing effects of eye movement. By 1989, Shapiro crafted an eight-phase protocol for harnessing the transformative effects of bilateral stimulation to alleviate the weight of distressing memories.

Today, the protocol has gained recognition by esteemed institutions such as the American Psychological Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) as an effective strategy for treating trauma and PTSD.

How Does It Work?

EMDR therapy works to reduce the emotional distress of traumatic memories using Bilateral Stimulation (BLS) such as eye movement, gentle tapping, or soothing audio to activate the brain’s reprocessing system.

The Eight Phases of EMDR

The EMDR process consists of eight structured phases, including:

• History taking and planning: In this first step, you and your therapist wil identify your current symptoms and set clear goals for your EMDR journey.
• Preparation: Your counselor explain the process of EMDR and how it work to make sure you are comfortable with the therapy and that you have the tools to navigate the healing process with confidence. During this time, you will make sure you have the resources in place, as well as create new resources together, to safely use EMDR.
• Assessments: This is where your therapist guides you to identify specific memories that will be the focus of your transformative work.
• Desensitization: Engage in BLS (eye movements, tapping, and auditory tones) to desensitize the emotion linked with the traumatic memory.
• Installation: This phase is about installing positive and effective new beliefs about yourself.
• Body scan: Your therapist will guide you in identifying any physical sensations of residual tension in your body, which you will release using BLS.
• Closure: You will reflect on your biggest takeaways and plan for maintaining self-care between sessions.
• Reevaluation: In the following session, you have the opportunity to discuss any new thoughts or feelings and process further memories to ensure ongoing healing.

This effective evidence-based protocol provides a structured and effective path for healing from trauma and PTSD. It helps our clients manage distressing memories and develop positive self-perceptions to regain control over their emotional well-being. It’s a transformational approach if you’re seeking lasting recovery from intense emotional experiences.

What to Expect From EMDR Therapy?

Before you begin EMDR, our therapists will ensure you’re fully informed and comfortable with the process. We welcome all your questions and aim to provide clear insights into what your therapeutic process will entail.

Some things you can expect from EMDR therapy at Evolve Therapy & Counseling include:

• Your therapist will help you create an internal resource called a “calm place”. You will be guided through this process to identify or create a place where you feel calm and lock it in with BLS. You can use this tool throughout your therapy and your life.
• Together, with your counselor, you will identify a list of memories you want to reprocess. They will guide you using an “affect scan” or “float back” exercise.
• You will choose a specific BLS technique with your therapist’s guidance based on your preference and suitability.
• As you begin to desencitize memories, you may notice images, feelings, or body sensations. Your therapist will periodically ask what you notice.
• Throughout the session, your therapist will check in with you to see how you are doing throughout this process. Remember not to overthink. Your brain is like the conductor of the train and you are noticing the passing images in the window.
• You will install positive beliefs about yourself using BLS.
• This therapeutic process will be repeated for various traumatic memories until they no longer cause emotional distress, allowing you to hold the memory without the burden of pain.

The objective of EMDR therapy is not to erase the memory of the traumatic event but to reach a state where you can recall it without experiencing distress, even when reminders surface in your everyday life. The counselors at Evolve Therapy & Counseling are trained and experienced in EMDR therapy. It is of the utmost importance to us that you feel safe and supported throughout your entire journey.

What Is EMDR Therapy Used For?

Eye movement desensitization can be used for trauma and so much more. This type of therapy is not just a lifeline for those who have endured traumatic events. It can be a powerful tool used for a variety of mental health conditions, as well as for mapping out future challenges to approach them with ease and grace.

“In my professional experience, our clients have shown a reduction in PTSD symptoms, feeling a sense of calm and ease after EMDR. Our team prides ourselves on creating a supportive and safe space that fosters relaxation and trust.”

This treatment involves a collaborative partnership between a therapist and the individual. Your therapist will invite you to share the specific needs and circumstances you wish to address during your therapeutic journey. 

Our clients ofen share that after processing each memory using bilateral stimulation in EMDR, the memory feels smaller and further away. They now realize the event had nothing to do with their worthiness as a person and see themselves in a new light sometimes after a single processing session.

EMDR has remarkable healing potential if you are navigating a variety of conditions, including:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety disorders
• Depression or depressive symptoms
• Grief and loss
• Specific phobias
• Chronic pain
• Eating disorders
• Relationship issues
• Dissociative disorders
• Obsessive-compulsive disorders
• Sexual abuse
• Substance use disorders
• Trauma bonding

EMDR isn’t just a treatment; it’s an experience that unlocks many benefits. This therapy goes beyond trauma and offers support in navigating life’s challenges with resilience. You can have the tools to approach past and future adversity with strength and grace.

Contraindications for EMDR

EMDR may not be suitable for everyone. Your therapist may want to conduct a further comprehensive assessment if you have conditions that may impact your ability to tolerate emotional distress, such as certain psychotic disorders, a history of seizures, or severe dissociative disorders, before proceeding with this form of therapy.

Research and Client Experience

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that “EMDR therapy significantly reduces the symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a wide range of trauma victims” (Van der Kolk et al., 2007).

Research from PloS One shows that “EMDR is effective in reducing PTSD symptoms, depression, anxiety, and subjective distress in PTSD patients” (Chen et al., 2014).

Clients of Liz Chelak, LCSW, CCTSI, CRPS have shared that they feel a profound sense of calm after just one session. After two sessions, one client reported experiencing a valuable shift in perspective regarding a traumatic memory. She explained that this cognitive and emotional realignment has helped her let go of long-held resentments and begin experiencing more positive feelings about herself and others.

What Is EMDR Therapy for Anxiety Disorders?

EMDR therapy is a versatile treatment that can also address anxiety. Our approach to EMDR for anxiety at Evolve Therapy & Counseling in Brickell, Downtown Miami, and West Palm Beach involves:

• Our expert therapists will assist you in identifying specific triggers that cause anxiety symptoms
• Utilizing BLS of your choice with the  therapist’s guidance to ensure your comfort and safety while discussing thoughts, feelings, and sensations surrounding the anxiety
• Ongoing check-ins from your therapist regarding your thoughts and physical sensations to ensure you are comfortable
• Continue these steps until the anxiety no longer holds power in your life

Evolve Therapy & Counseling counselors have a deep understanding of trauma and its effects. We are wholeheartedly dedicated to helping our clients heal from past trauma and anxiety through the help of the most effective and scientifically backed interventions.

How Long Does EMDR Therapy Last?

Therapy is a personalized process tailored to your unique story and needs. Everyone’s journey is individual, and we understand that every client’s experience is distinct.

The duration of therapy depends on the individual’s depth and breadth of traumatic events. According to the research, 81% of patients needed less than 10 EMDR sessions for stability (Proudluck et al., 2020). Another study showed a 77% remission rate in PTSD veterans after 12 EMDR sessions (Carlson et al., 1998).

Your healing is a collaborative effort, and you will work alongside your therapist to determine the total number of sessions. Together, you will forge a plan that respects your circumstances and therapy goals. Our therapists are dedicated to walking with you at a pace that feels right, providing support and expertise every step of the way.

How Much Does EMDR Therapy Cost?

Investing in therapy is a step towards reclaiming your life and rewriting the effects trauma has on your life.

The cost of EMDR therapy depends on:

• The years of the therapist’s experience
• The location of the practice
• The therapist’s qualifications, education, and certifications

We understand that your healing journey is deeply personal, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our EMDR sessions, lasting 50 minutes and conducted in person or virtually, are carefully designed to offer you a meaningful and effective experience at $220 each. We typically suggest a series of at least three sessions to truly embrace the healing process.

Learn more about how much does therapy cost at our center in Brickell, Downtown Miami, and West Palm Beach.

Is EMDR therapy covered by insurance?

At Evolve Therapy & Counseling, we prioritize your healing journey and strive to make the administrative process as smooth as possible. We are in-network with multiple insurance providers, including Medicaid.

If you would like to find out your specific insurance plan benefits, feel free to contact our office, and a trauma-informed team member can gladly help you find out if your insurance covers EMDR.

How to Get EMDR Therapy?

Our therapists are trained by Liz Chelak, LCSW, CCSTI, CRPS, creator of the proprietary Liz Chel method blending clinical psychology and identity work. Our therapists offer EMDR therapy along with other evidence-based interventions.

You can find a trusted therapist by:

• Contacting our office to schedule a complimentary consultation
• After your consultation, you will be matched with the therapist who best fits your needs and preferences

Liz and her team of experienced therapists trained in her proven method are here to support you in reconnecting with yourself and feeling safe in your authentic self expression.

When narrowing down your search for a therapist, consider the following:

• Make sure your therapist is trained by a reputable and EMDRIA-approved program, such as EMDR Connect.
• Engage in a conversation with your therapist about their therapeutic approach to see if it aligns with your needs.
• Review the therapist’s qualifications to feel confident in their expertise.

All therapists at Evolve Therapy & Counseling are not just highly trained and experienced, we believe in empowering our clients to make their own decisions and pace sessions to your needs.

Can I Do EMDR Therapy on Myself?

EMDR therapy is a specialized and powerful treatment method, and it is not recommended that you perform it yourself. EMDR therapists must be trained and experienced, hold a master’s degree, complete years of clinical internships, and complete rigorous training courses.

Doing this form of therapy on yourself can be hazardous due to the potential risk of retraumatization due to a lack of professional support. The guidance of a trained therapist is crucial to navigating the complexities of trauma safely and effectively.

At Evolve Therapy & Counseling, our therapists are equipped with the expertise and compassionate approach necessary to support you through eye movement desensitization.

EMDR therapy stands as a formidable and proven approach for overcoming trauma and a range of psychological disorders. With the help of our skilled counselor, you can embark on a transformative journey toward healing, empowering you to lead your most fulfilling life.

At Evolve Therapy & Counseling in Brickell, Downtown Miami, and West Palm Beach, we are dedicated to your well-being and are ready to support you every step of the way. Book your appointment now and take a decisive step toward reclaiming your well-being.