EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help you process and heal from traumatic experiences and distressing memories.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (like guided eye movements or tapping) to help your brain reprocess painful memories in a way that reduces their emotional intensity.
Think of it like this: traumatic memories can get "stuck" in your nervous system, causing you to relive them as if they're still happening. EMDR helps your brain fully process those memories so they become part of your past—no longer overwhelming your present. This approach is highly effective for PTSD and complex trauma, as well as birth trauma and traumatic grief.
How EMDR Helps
EMDR can be used to process a wide range of distressing experiences:
Single-Incident Trauma
Car accidents, assaults, medical procedures, or other one-time traumatic events
Complex or Developmental Trauma
Childhood abuse, neglect, or ongoing relational harm
Birth Trauma
Difficult deliveries, emergency C-sections, NICU experiences, or loss
Grief & Loss
Pregnancy loss, death of a loved one, or difficult life transitions
Anxiety & Panic
Especially when tied to specific fears or past experiences
Religious or Spiritual Trauma
Processing harm from rigid beliefs or spiritual abuse
What to Expect in EMDR
EMDR therapy follows a structured approach with eight distinct phases:
History & Preparation
We'll discuss your background and identify memories you want to target
Desensitization
Using bilateral stimulation, we reduce the emotional charge of the memory
Installation
We strengthen positive beliefs to replace negative ones
Body Scan
We check for and clear any lingering physical tension
Closure & Reevaluation
We ensure you feel grounded and assess progress over time
My Training in EMDR
I have completed comprehensive EMDR training and continue to engage in ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest research and techniques in trauma therapy.
My approach combines EMDR with other evidence-based therapies to provide you with personalized care that addresses your unique needs and goals.
Is EMDR Right for You?
If painful memories continue to impact your daily life, EMDR may offer the breakthrough you've been hoping for. Together, we'll decide if this approach is the right fit for your needs.
Book Your Free 15-Minute ConsultWhy Choose A New Day Psychology
Licensed Across States
Licensed in Missouri and New Jersey via PSYPACT
Evidence-Based Treatment
Comprehensive EMDR training and certification
Flexible Telehealth
Effective EMDR therapy from home
Individual Approach
Treatment customized to meet your specific needs
EMDR Therapy in Missouri, New Jersey & Beyond
Professional EMDR therapy is now accessible through secure telehealth sessions. Whether you're in Kansas City, St. Louis, Newark, Jersey City, or anywhere in Missouri or New Jersey, evidence-based trauma processing is available to help you heal.
Serving Missouri
Providing expert EMDR therapy throughout Missouri, including Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, Columbia, and all surrounding areas.
Learn About Missouri ServicesServing New Jersey
Offering compassionate EMDR therapy to clients across New Jersey, including Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, and statewide.
Learn About New Jersey ServicesThrough secure virtual EMDR sessions, you can access specialized trauma therapy from the comfort of your home, anywhere in Missouri or New Jersey.
View All Service LocationsReady to Process Painful Memories?
Experience the proven benefits of EMDR therapy. Book your free consultation today.
Get Help Today - Free ConsultationEMDR Therapy FAQ
What is EMDR therapy and how does it work?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based psychotherapy that helps process traumatic memories and distressing experiences. It uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or sounds) while recalling difficult memories, allowing your brain to reprocess them in a healthier way. This reduces the emotional intensity and helps you integrate the experience without ongoing distress.
How long does EMDR therapy take to work?
The length of EMDR treatment varies depending on your individual needs and the complexity of your trauma. Some people experience significant relief in 3-6 sessions for single-incident trauma, while complex trauma or multiple traumatic experiences may require longer treatment. Many clients report feeling noticeable improvement after just a few sessions.
Is EMDR therapy effective for PTSD and trauma?
Yes, EMDR is recognized by the American Psychological Association and the World Health Organization as an effective treatment for PTSD and trauma. Research shows it can be as effective as trauma-focused CBT, and many clients find it works faster than traditional talk therapy. EMDR has helped millions of people heal from traumatic experiences.
Can EMDR be done through telehealth?
Yes, EMDR therapy can be effectively conducted through secure telehealth sessions. Virtual EMDR uses bilateral stimulation techniques adapted for online delivery, such as following a moving object on your screen or using audio tones. Research shows that telehealth EMDR is just as effective as in-person sessions for most clients.
Learn More About This Topic
Helpful articles from Dr. Pottenger on related topics
EMDR Therapy for Trauma and PTSD: What to Expect in Treatment
Considering EMDR therapy for trauma or PTSD? Learn what happens during sessions, how it works, and what results you can expect.
How Trauma Affects Your Body: Understanding the Mind-Body Connection
Trauma doesn't just live in your mind. Learn how traumatic experiences affect your body and why somatic approaches matter in treatment.
Pregnancy After Loss: Navigating Grief, Fear, and Hope
Pregnancy after loss brings a complex mix of emotions. Learn how EMDR and trauma therapy can help you navigate fear, grief, and hope.
Related Services
Explore other areas where I can support you
Trauma Therapy
Comprehensive trauma treatment using EMDR, IFS, and other evidence-based approaches for PTSD and complex trauma.
Grief Counseling
Processing traumatic loss, sudden death, and complicated grief with compassionate support.
Perinatal Mental Health
EMDR for birth trauma, pregnancy loss, and postpartum PTSD with specialized perinatal care.