“I am not what has happened to me. I am what I choose to become.”
EMDR
What Is EMDR?
EMDR is a structured therapy that helps you work through difficult memories while staying grounded in the present.
During EMDR, you will:
Focus on a memory, feeling, or belief
Use gentle back-and-forth movements (eye movements, tapping, or sounds)
Allow your brain to process the experience in a new way
EMDR helps reduce the emotional intensity of memories so they no longer feel overwhelming.
What Can I Expect in EMDR?
EMDR is done step by step, with a focus on safety and support.
You can expect:
Preparation and coping skills to help you feel grounded
A pace that feels comfortable, with no pressure to share more than you’re ready for
Gradual processing of memories in manageable pieces
Guidance and support throughout each session
Over time, many people notice:
Memories feel less intense
Emotional reactions decrease
Thoughts and perspectives begin to shift
The goal is not to erase memories, but to help them feel less overwhelming.
What Does an EMDR Session Look Like?
Sessions follow a structured and supportive process:
Check-in and grounding to make sure you feel stable
Choosing a focus (a memory, feeling, or belief)
Processing using back-and-forth movements
Noticing changes in thoughts, feelings, or body sensations
Closing the session with grounding and support
You remain in control throughout the process and can pause at any time.
Is EMDR Right for Me?
EMDR may be helpful if you:
Have experienced trauma or distressing events
Feel triggered by reminders of the past
Struggle with anxiety, panic, or feeling on edge
Notice patterns that feel hard to change
Feel like certain memories are still affecting you
EMDR can help with:
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety and panic
Negative beliefs about yourself
Stress related to past experiences
EMDR may not be the first step if you are in a current crisis or need more support with stability and coping skills. In those cases, we begin by building safety and move at a pace that feels right for you.
You do not have to be sure if EMDR is the right fit. We can talk through your needs and decide together what will be most helpful.
A Gentle Reminder
You are always in control
You can pause at any time
We go at a pace that feels safe for you
EMDR is not about reliving the past—it is about helping it feel less heavy.
Learn more about EMDR
Click on any of the bullet points below to access the link that is described:
Info and articles about EMDR:
Videos about how EMDR works and it's effectiveness:
This is a 10 minute video that introduces what EMDR is and how it works
This is a short, simple cartoon that explains how EMDR works in simple terms.
This is a short news story that talks about the effectiveness of EMDR.
This is an 11 minute long video that has success stories of people who have done EMDR.
Therapists Trained In EMDR
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AC Cluley, LLMSW
THEY/THEM - TELEHEALTH ONLY
I work with neurodivergent people who live at the intersection of multiple identities--AuDHD, queer, trans or nonbinary, Latine, BIPOC, and Indoqueer. Many of the people I support have spent years navigating systems that were never designed with their brains, cultures, or identities in mind. Therapy with me is a space where you don't have to explain or hide parts of yourself. All of you is welcome here, and together we can explore ways to build a life that supports both your nervous system and your authentic self.
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Amy Lilienthal, LLMSW
SHE/HER
Come as you are! Let's work together to understand the tough parts of your life and find ways to improve it. Talking to a therapist you trust about your problems can help you learn new ways to deal with them, making you more present with other people and giving your life more meaning.
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Caroline Velasquez, DSW, CAADC
SHE/HER
Do you ever feel stuck? Does it seem like no matter what you do, you can't move beyond your past? Do you find yourself worrying about your ability to succeed in life? If this sounds familiar, you're not alone--and I may be able to help.
I work with individuals who are navigating trauma, anxiety, and other life challenges. I understand how overwhelming things can feel, and I believe that change is possible. My role is to support you in finding a path forward that fits you and your life.
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Fawn Loonsfoot, LLMSW
SHE/HER
The decision to begin therapy is a difficult step to make. My goal is to make that step worthwhile and to meet the individual needs of each client I serve. I will provide a comfortable, safe, and judgment-free environment where we can explore life’s issues and work to restore a sense of balance in your everyday life.
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Jennifer Helsel-Battle, LPC, CCTP
SHE/HER
Do you long to have a more fulfilling life? Is something getting in your way, keeping you stuck from truly living life and experiencing joy? Is pain from your past or worries about the future making it hard to enjoy the present? If any of these statements sound like you, I want you to know there is hope! Hello, I am Jen, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan. I have worked with children, individuals, couples, and families for over 25 years.
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Kim Venema, LPC
SHE/HER
I know that coming in to speak with someone can be daunting and scary. “What if I do it wrong? What if it doesn’t work?” These are scary questions, and questions I have asked myself when I have been in therapy. I strive to provide a welcoming environment. I believe that laughter is, maybe not the best, but definitely in the top 5 of medicines. I take my cues from whoever is sitting on the other side of the room from me, or next to me on the floor. But I do it in a manner that still allows you to have some thoughts and reactions challenged, in order for growth to be allowed and seen. I look forward to working with you and celebrating your successes.
