What Is EMDR Therapy?
A Beginner’s Guide to Healing from Trauma
Have you heard of EMDR but don’t know what it actually is, or wondered whether it might help you? You’re in the right place. In this post, I’ll explain EMDR in plain language — what it does, how it works, who it helps, and what to expect if you try it.
At GR Therapy Collective in Grand Rapids, MI, we offer EMDR as one of our trauma-focused approaches because it helps clients process painful experiences without being overwhelmed.
Why EMDR? The Big Idea
The central idea behind EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is that when traumatic or distressing experiences don’t get fully processed by the brain, they can get “stuck.” These memories may continue to trigger strong emotional and physical reactions as though the event is still happening.
EMDR helps the brain go back, safely access those memories, and reprocess them so they become less disturbing. The memory doesn’t disappear — but the emotional intensity fades, and people often describe feeling lighter, calmer, and more in control.
EMDR is recognized as an effective trauma treatment by the American Psychiatric Association, the World Health Organization, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
How EMDR Works (Step by Step)
Here’s a simplified overview of the EMDR process:
1. History & Preparation
You and your therapist review your history and practice grounding skills.
To ensure you feel safe and ready.
2. Target Selection / Assessment
You identify a memory, image, or belief tied to distress.
Clarifies what’s being worked on.
3. Desensitization / Reprocessing
While recalling the memory, you engage in bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or tones).
Activates the brain’s natural healing process.
4. Installation of Positive Belief
You strengthen new, empowering beliefs (e.g., “I am safe now”).
Replaces old negative patterns.
5. Body Scan
You notice body sensations to release lingering stress.
Integrates mind and body healing.
6. Closure & Reevaluation
Sessions end with grounding; in the next session progress is reviewed.
Keeps the process safe and ongoing.
What to Expect as a Client
If you’ve never done EMDR, here’s what you might experience:
You stay in control the whole time. You choose the memories and can pause whenever needed.
You may notice physical sensations or emotions arise during processing — this is normal.
EMDR often produces change faster than traditional talk therapy.
The goal isn’t to erase the past — it’s to make peace with it so it no longer hijacks your present.
🎥 Quick Video: What is EMDR?
Here’s a short, video from the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA) that explains EMDR in under 3 minutes:
Who Can Benefit
EMDR is especially effective for:
PTSD and trauma (single-incident or complex)
Anxiety, panic, and phobias
Grief and loss
Negative self-beliefs (e.g., “I’m not good enough”)
Stress from medical events or accidents
Note: EMDR may require more preparation for people with high dissociation, ongoing unsafe situations, or limited support. A trained EMDR therapist will move at a pace that feels safe.
Why EMDR Works
Research shows EMDR helps reduce distress by activating the brain’s natural ability to process memories. Bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or sounds) appears to help the brain integrate emotions, thoughts, and body sensations so that past events lose their emotional intensity.
EMDR International Association (EMDRIA): Introduction to EMDR Therapy
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): EMDR for PTSD
Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA): EMDR Therapy Overview
Take the Next Step
EMDR can help you shift the way the past lives in your body and mind. You don’t have to carry trauma alone.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn if EMDR therapy is right for you.
EMDR Therapy in Grand Rapids, MI
At GR Therapy Collective, we provide EMDR for individuals who feel weighed down by the past. Whether you’ve experienced a single traumatic event or ongoing life stressors, EMDR can be a powerful tool for change.
We offer both in-person sessions in Grand Rapids and secure telehealth therapy across Michigan.
📍 Serving Grand Rapids, Ada, Cascade, East Grand Rapids, and surrounding West Michigan communities.