EMDR Therapy
A structured way to work through memories that still weigh on you.
Talking Comes First
Starting with a Conversation
EMDR therapy with your therapist begins with talking. Before any part of the EMDR process starts, you and your therapist discuss what brought you in and which memories or experiences still feel heaviest to carry.
You do not need every detail organized. You can describe a distressing memory in broad terms, noting how it affects your mood or sleep, without retelling everything at once. Your therapist will ask questions as needed.
Getting Ready Together
Preparing Before Memory Work Begins
EMDR includes a preparation phase before any reprocessing starts. Your therapist explains the method in plain terms and checks that you feel steady enough to begin, which can include learning ways to settle yourself if a memory brings up strong feelings.
Preparation is guided by the conversation about your history, current concerns, and readiness. Ask what each part involves before deciding whether to proceed. Your therapist can explain ways to pause, check in, and finish the appointment with time to settle.
How the Method Works
Eye Movements or Tapping During Sessions
Once preparation feels complete, sessions use eye movements or tapping while you briefly bring a specific memory to mind. Your therapist guides this part and checks in regularly about what you notice, whether a thought, a sensation, or a shift in how the memory feels.
This is a structured method, not hypnosis, and you remain aware and in control throughout. Your therapist explains each step before it happens, and you can pause at any point if something feels like too much.
- A brief check-in on the memory to focus on
- Short sets of eye movements or tapping
- Pauses to describe what you are noticing
- Time at the end of the session to settle before you leave
A Shared Pace
Moving at a Pace You Choose Together
EMDR does not follow one timeline for everyone. You and your therapist decide together how quickly to move through preparation and memory work, based on how you are responding and what feels manageable between sessions.
Tell your therapist how you are doing between appointments, including sleep and mood. Those details can inform discussions about pace and whether to continue with memory work.
Considering the Fit
Deciding Whether EMDR Fits Your Situation
EMDR is not the right approach for everyone, and your therapist will discuss this openly with you. Some people find that talking through a memory in detail works better for them, while others prefer the structure EMDR provides.
You can ask your therapist directly whether EMDR seems like a reasonable fit for what you are working through. If it does not, you can discuss otthe approaches this clinician uses, including CBT or general talk-based work.
Our EMDR Care
Our Approach to EMDR
A therapist on our team is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, California License #120707. EMDR is one of several approaches this clinician uses, alongside CBT, DBT, family systems, and existential therapy.
For EMDR in English or Spanish, you can ask about care with your therapist in the consultation.
Location and Cost
Sessions and Fees in Brief
Meet with your therapist at 191 Sand Creek Road, Suite 230, Brentwood, CA 94513, or by video while in California. Ask how preparation and the eye-movement or tapping part would work in the format you choose.
Session fees are shared during your free consultation. Ask about costs before deciding on EMDR appointments. Major credit cards and FSA and HSA cards are accepted.
Your First Step
Scheduling a Free Phone Consultation
For questions about EMDR, request a free 15-minute phone consultation at (925) 331-0457. You can email info@heartnmindcounseling.com to arrange contact without describing distressing memories. The phone conversation can cover language, fees, and how to discuss fit with your therapist.
Common Questions
Does EMDR Involve Hypnosis?
No. EMDR is a structured method using eye movements or tapping while you remain aware and in control, not hypnosis.
How Long Does Preparation Take?
Preparation is discussed with your therapist based on your history, concerns, and readiness. Ask how this clinician decides when to begin the memory-focused part.
What if EMDR Does Not Feel Like a Fit?
Your therapist will discuss this honestly with you and can talk through otthe approaches, including CBT or general talk-based therapy.
