Clinical Services

EMDR Services

Sometimes insight alone does not resolve the emotional impact of difficult experiences. A person may understand what happened yet still experience anxiety, strong emotional reactions, or physical stress responses when memories are triggered.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy that helps the brain process distressing experiences so they no longer feel as overwhelming. It is widely recognized as a first-line treatment for trauma and post-traumatic stress by organizations including the American Psychological Association and the World Health Organization.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulations (such as guided eye movements, tapping, or alternating tones) to help the brain revisit and process difficult experiences. Over time, memories that once felt intense or intrusive often become less emotionally activating.

At Westhampton Family Psychologists, EMDR can be used as a standalone therapy or alongside ongoing counseling. Some clients continue working with their primary therapist while using EMDR sessions to process specific memories or experiences that remain emotionally charged.

Many people pursue EMDR not because of a single traumatic event, but to process accumulated stress or experiences that continue to affect their present life.

concerns EMDR can help address:

EMDR is widely used to treat trauma and post-traumatic stress, and may also be helpful for:

• Anxiety and panic
• Distressing life experiences
• Medical trauma
• Grief and loss
• Phobias
• Performance anxiety
• Stress related to high-responsibility roles
• Negative self-beliefs connected to past experiences
• Attachment and relational wounds

getting started:

If you are interested in learning whether EMDR may be a good fit, the first step is scheduling an intake appointment. To get started, please reach out to our therapy referral coordinator via email at shonshell@wfpofva.com.EMDR therapy at Westhampton Family Psychologists is offered by:

Ashley Gibson, Licensed Resident in Counseling
Dr. Karen Zagayko, Licensed Clinical Psychologist