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info@thrivemindpsych.com
617-468-7811
EMDR Therapy at ThriveMind
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is one of the most effective therapies for trauma. Recognized by organizations such as the World Health Organization and the Department of Veterans Affairs, EMDR helps the brain reprocess painful memories so they no longer feel overwhelming.
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At ThriveMind, EMDR is offered online in a supportive, structured environment that prioritizes safety and client choice.
How EMDR Works
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is based on the idea that trauma can overwhelm the brain’s natural ability to process information. Instead of being stored as a regular memory, the experience can remain “stuck” in the nervous system — leading to flashbacks, anxiety, negative self-beliefs, and physical distress.
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In EMDR, we work together to carefully target these memories while using bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements, tapping, or alternating sounds). This back-and-forth stimulation activates both sides of the brain, which supports the nervous system in “re-filing” the memory in a healthier way.
Here’s what this looks like in practice:
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Assessment & Preparation – We’ll first build coping strategies and grounding tools, so you feel safe and ready.
Targeting Memories – Together, we’ll identify specific memories, triggers, and the negative beliefs attached to them.
Reprocessing – While you hold aspects of the memory in mind, I’ll guide you through sets of bilateral stimulation. Clients often notice the memory begins to feel less vivid, less charged, and easier to approach.
Installation of Positive Beliefs – As distress decreases, we focus on strengthening healthier, more adaptive beliefs (for example, shifting from “I’m powerless” to “I can protect myself now”).
Body Scan – We check how the body feels in relation to the memory to ensure the distress has been resolved.
Closure & Integration – Each session ends with grounding techniques, and we integrate the progress into your overall treatment goals.
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Over time, EMDR helps transform the way memories are stored in the brain. The event is still remembered, but it no longer carries the same emotional intensity. Many clients describe it as finally being able to “put the past in the past.”
Who EMDR Helps
EMDR is a highly effective therapy for a wide range of trauma-related challenges. It is most commonly used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but its benefits extend far beyond.
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At ThriveMind, EMDR can help clients who are experiencing:
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Single-event trauma – such as accidents, natural disasters, or assaults.
Childhood trauma or neglect – unresolved experiences that continue to impact daily life.
Complex or repeated trauma – including long-term abuse, domestic violence, or chronic stress.
First responder or military trauma – exposure to violence, injury, or life-threatening events.
Anxiety and panic attacks – when distressing memories fuel ongoing worry or fear.
Phobias – specific fears that feel overwhelming or difficult to control.
Grief and loss – when memories of a loved one’s death or illness feel stuck or unbearable.
Disturbing life experiences – including bullying, betrayal, medical trauma, or difficult relationships.
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Many clients also benefit from EMDR when traditional talk therapy hasn’t resolved symptoms. By targeting how trauma is stored in the brain and body, EMDR often leads to faster, deeper, and more lasting relief.
