Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

What Is EMDR Therapy?

This specialized form of EMDR combines traditional trauma processing with a focus on the body (somatic) and your relationships (attachment) both past and present.

It helps you connect with and release deep-seated emotional tension, often held in the body, while also addressing the impact of past difficult relationships on your sense of safety and connection.

How Does It Work?

Through a series of guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, EMDR helps your brain reprocess distressing memories and emotions to allow you to feel and behave how you would like to with more ease. This therapy works to reduce the power these memories hold over you, allowing for lasting emotional relief and personal growth. The somatic and attachment aspects help you feel more grounded, safe, and supported as you heal.

What Can It Help With?

Somatic and Attachment-Focused EMDR can be incredibly helpful for:

  • Healing from childhood trauma or attachment wounds

  • Managing anxiety, panic attacks, and overwhelming stress

  • Overcoming grief, shame, or guilt

  • Improving self-worth

  • Creating healthier relationships and emotional bonds

  • Self confidence

  • Anxiety reduction

  • Emotion regulation

If you’re ready to break free from the past and experience deep, lasting healing, this approach might be the key to unlocking your path forward. Let’s start this journey together.

What Changes Do Clients See/Feel?

Clients often experience profound and lasting changes through SAFE (Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR). By integrating body-based awareness and the attachment system, SAFE helps you process trauma in a holistic way.

Many clients report feeling:

Deeper connection to self and others

A stronger sense of safety in relationships

Improved emotional regulation

Feeling more in control of your emotions, even in challenging situations

Clearer sense of purpose and direction

Uncovering long-held beliefs or patterns that no longer serve you, and replacing them with healthier ways of thinking and being

Relief from trauma

A reduction or elimination of trauma triggers, allowing you to live more fully in the present

Greater emotional resilience

Reduced anxiety, fear, and emotional reactivity

How We're Different

What sets SAFE EMDR apart from traditional EMDR is its emphasis on the body and attachment relationships. SAFE integrates two powerful healing modalities:

  • Somatic Awareness: Focusing on the body’s sensations, emotions, and movements to release trapped trauma energy and create a sense of safety within your body.

  • Attachment Theory: By understanding and addressing relational patterns that stem from early attachment experiences, SAFE helps you develop healthier relationships and better interpersonal boundaries.

    By combining these elements, SAFE EMDR offers a more comprehensive and effective approach to healing trauma, especially for those with complex or relational trauma histories.

  • SAFE EMDR uses the principles of traditional Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) but with a focus on somatic (body-centered) and attachment-based interventions. The process involves:

    1. Assessment and Preparation: Together, we will identify and make sense of your current patterns. You will learn grounding techniques and how to regulate your emotions throughout the process.

    2. Processing Trauma: We work together to identify past events and current triggers, using bilateral stimulation (e.g., eye movements or tapping) to help your brain process and reframe the trauma.

    3. Somatic Integration: While processing, we also focus on the physical sensations in your body, which can provide important insights into your emotional state.

    4. Attachment Repair: We explore the impact of early attachment relationships, addressing negative beliefs formed in those relationships that may affect you today. We offer long overdue support to old attachment wounds.

    The result is a more integrated and lasting transformation.

  • Yes! SAFE EMDR can be effectively conducted in an online setting. Through secure video conferencing, you are guided through the process, using tools like bilateral stimulation, somatic tracking, and grounding techniques that are tailored to your individual needs.

  • SAFE EMDR can be beneficial if you are dealing with:

    • Trauma or PTSD: If past events continue to affect your daily life, relationships, or emotional well-being.

    • Anxiety, depression, or stress: If you struggle to manage emotions or feel overwhelmed by certain situations.

    • Attachment issues: If you have difficulty forming or maintaining healthy relationships due to early life experiences.

    • Chronic pain or physical issues: If your body holds tension or discomfort that may be related to unprocessed trauma or you have been told by a doctor that your uncomfortable symptoms are stress related.

    If you are unsure, we can discuss your concerns in a consultation to determine if SAFE EMDR is a good fit.

  • Getting started is easy! Simply reach out to schedule a consultation. During this meeting, we’ll discuss your needs, answer any questions, and create a plan that works for you. Together, we’ll decide on the best path forward for your healing journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are We Right For You?

Together we focus on creating a safe, supportive environment for healing. If you’re looking for a more integrated approach to trauma recovery—one that addresses both the body and your relational patterns—SAFE EMDR could be the perfect fit for you.

Reach out today, and let’s explore how we can work together to help you feel more empowered and free.

Ready to Heal?

Are you ready to begin your journey toward emotional healing and deeper connection? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how SAFE EMDR can help you release trauma, rebuild relationships, and restore your inner peace.