Our methods / EMDR
EMDR therapy in virtual IOP
Let painful memories lose their charge.
EMDR is an evidence-based therapy for trauma. While you briefly hold a memory in mind, bilateral stimulation helps your brain reprocess it, so it feels less vivid and less distressing.
Evidence-based for trauma
Stabilization first
Covered by most commercial plans
Bilateral stimulation
Follow the light while you hold a memory in mind
How EMDR works
Eight phases, at your pace.
EMDR follows a structured eight-phase protocol. It starts with preparation and coping skills, so you feel safe before any memory work begins.
During reprocessing you follow a moving light or tapping while you notice what comes up. Over sessions, the memory stays, but its intensity fades.
EMDR at Thrive
Built into every week.
One-on-one
EMDR happens in individual sessions with a clinician trained in the method.
Stabilization first
Groups and skills work help you feel grounded before and between reprocessing sessions.
By secure video
Bilateral stimulation works on screen with a moving light, or with self-tapping.
The method
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) was developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It is a structured therapy for trauma and distressing memories, recognized in major clinical guidelines for PTSD.
The idea behind EMDR is that some painful experiences are stored in a way that keeps them feeling raw and present. By briefly focusing on a memory while following bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or alternating taps, the brain can reprocess it, so it becomes a memory of something that happened rather than something that keeps happening.
EMDR does not require you to describe every detail of what happened, and it always starts with preparation. You build calming and grounding skills first, so that reprocessing feels manageable.
It may help if you
Have memories that still feel vivid or intrusive
Get triggered by reminders of a past event
Have nightmares or feel constantly on alert
Carry beliefs like “I am not safe” or “it was my fault”
Found talking about trauma too overwhelming
Want trauma care that goes at your pace
Techniques
What EMDR involves.
Your clinician chooses what fits your goals. These are the ones we use most.
Resourcing
Build calm-place and grounding skills before memory work.
Target memory
Choose, with your clinician, the memory or trigger to work on.
Bilateral stimulation
Eye movements or tapping while you briefly hold the memory in mind.
Reprocessing
Notice thoughts and feelings shift, without having to talk through every detail.
Installing a positive belief
Strengthen a healthier belief, like “I am safe now.”
Body scan
Check for leftover tension and clear it before you close.
What it helps with
Care for what you’re going through.
At Thrive we use it for these conditions, alongside other methods.
Trauma and PTSD
EMDR’s core use, from single events to repeated trauma.
Learn more →
Anxiety disorders
When fear is rooted in a past experience.
Learn more →
Depression
When painful memories feed low mood.
Learn more →
8days
median from referral to first session
90%
session attendance across our programs
3hours
of live care a day, from home
EMDR questions
EMDR, answered.
Still wondering if it’s right for you? Our admissions team can talk it through, free. Call (561) 203-6085 or book a free call.
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy for trauma. It uses bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping, while you briefly focus on a distressing memory, which helps the brain reprocess it.
Can EMDR be done over video?
Yes. Clinicians use an on-screen moving light or guide you through self-tapping. Many people find virtual EMDR works well, and it lets you process in a place where you feel safe.
Do I have to talk about my trauma in detail?
No. EMDR does not require retelling every detail. You notice what comes up, and your clinician guides the process.
How many sessions does EMDR take?
It varies. A single event may take a few reprocessing sessions; complex trauma takes longer. Preparation always comes first.
Is EMDR right for me?
EMDR is widely used for PTSD and trauma-related symptoms. Your clinician decides with you whether and when EMDR fits your plan of care.
What does bilateral stimulation mean?
It means stimulating the left and right sides alternately, usually by following a light or finger moving side to side, or by tapping. Online, clinicians use an on-screen light or guide you through self-tapping.
Is EMDR safe?
EMDR is a well-established therapy delivered by trained clinicians. It can bring up strong feelings during and after sessions, which is why preparation and grounding skills come first.
Can EMDR help with trauma from childhood?
Yes. EMDR is used for single events and for repeated or early trauma. More complex histories usually take more preparation and more sessions.
Is EMDR covered by insurance?
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is part of our intensive outpatient program, which most commercial plans and TRICARE cover. We check your benefits for free before you start. See the plans we work with.