EMDR Therapy in Philadelphia
“This isn’t about endlessly analyzing your past. It’s about helping your system finally process what it couldn’t at the time.”
If you feel stuck in patterns you can't think your way out of — EMDR therapy can help. I offer EMDR therapy in Philadelphia for individuals dealing with trauma, anxiety, and repetitive behaviours that don't shift with insight alone.
EMDR works differently than traditional talk therapy. Instead of just talking about what happened, we work directly with how those experiences are stored in your body and nervous system. I trained at the EMDR Institute, founded by EMDR's creator Francine Shapiro, and have integrated this approach into my work with addiction, trauma, and shame-based cycles for over 15 years.
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps you heal from the emotional distress caused by traumatic experiences — from adverse childhood experiences to sexual assault to relationship betrayal.
During EMDR, we use bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements or tapping) while you briefly focus on specific memories or experiences. This allows your brain to process what was previously overwhelming, reduce emotional intensity, and shift negative core beliefs — for example from "I'm not safe" to "I'm in control now."
Repeated studies show that people can experience the benefits of long-term trauma treatment in far fewer sessions with EMDR than with traditional talk therapy alone.
What EMDR Can Help With
EMDR is an effective treatment for a wide range of conditions, including: PTSD and complex trauma, depression and anxiety, panic attacks, addiction and compulsive behavior, phobias, grief and loss, somatic disorders, dissociation, eating disorders, shame-based cycles, and trauma connected to sexuality or relationships.
What to Expect
EMDR isn't the same as traditional weekly talk therapy. In our work together:
We start by understanding your history and goals, then build grounding and stabilisation tools so you feel resourced before we process anything. When you're ready, we move into the reprocessing work itself — at a pace that feels manageable, not overwhelming.
You don't have to relive everything in detail for this to work. Some people notice shifts quickly. For others it's more gradual. Either way, the goal is lasting change, not just short-term relief.
My Approach to EMDR
I integrate EMDR into a broader, relational approach to therapy. That means we go at your pace, we build stability before processing deeper material, and I stay attuned to what feels manageable for you at each stage.
I frequently use EMDR with clients working through trauma connected to sexuality or relationships, shame-based patterns, and cycles of compulsive behaviour — areas where traditional talk therapy often reaches its limits.
Who I Work With
I offer EMDR therapy in Philadelphia and virtually across Pennsylvania for individuals who feel stuck despite insight, are carrying trauma or high levels of chronic stress, or want a deeper and more effective approach than talk therapy alone.
This work is LGBTQ+-affirming. If your trauma is connected to identity, stigma, or experiences within queer communities, that context is understood and integrated into the work from the start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to talk about everything in detail?
No. EMDR doesn't require you to narrate your trauma in depth. We work with the memory in a more contained way, which many people find less overwhelming than they expected.
How many sessions does it take?
It varies. Some people experience meaningful shifts in a handful of sessions. More complex or longstanding trauma generally takes longer. We'll have a clearer picture after an initial assessment.
Can EMDR be done via telehealth?
Yes. I offer virtual EMDR for clients across Pennsylvania using adapted bilateral stimulation techniques that work effectively online.
Do you use EMDR alongside other approaches?
Yes — I integrate EMDR with CBT, attachment-focused therapy, and IFS (Internal Family Systems) depending on what fits you best.
