Is EMDR Right for me?
You've heard about EMDR, but you're not sure whether it's right for you. Maybe you're telling yourself, "I don't really have any trauma," or "My childhood was fine—I don't think this applies to me." Or maybe you're feeling hesitant because you've already spent years in therapy, and the thought of trying yet another approach feels overwhelming.
If any of that resonates, you're not alone. These are some of the most common concerns we hear from people before they begin EMDR therapy.
So, if you have 60 seconds, ask yourself these questions:
Do you have a lot of insight— but still can't seem to figure out why something from the past has this much power over you?
Does your body react or respond to triggers before your brain catches up? (racing heart, shutting down, needing to leave a room) — even when you know logically that you are "safe"?
Have you done a lot of talk therapy but aren’t seeing any real or significant changes in your every day life?
Do certain people, places, tones of voice, or situations trigger a reaction that feels bigger than what's actually happening in the moment?
Do you find yourself retelling or re-explaining the past over and over again, hoping that if you just say it right, it'll finally stop hurting as much?
Is there a memory (or many) you've never said out loud — because talking about it feels like it would be too painful or like it would require you to relive it?
If you said “yes” to even one of these questions
Your body might still be holding onto something your mind has already tried to move on from. And this is exactly what EMDR was designed for.
The good news? EMDR doesn't ask you to relive or share every detail from your past. But it does help your brain finish processing what got stuck. So the memory stays, but the charge and emotional overwhelm doesn't.
If you'd like to learn more about EMDR therapy, including how it works, what the research says, and what to expect from the process, visit our EMDR page.
Interested in working with us?
We offer compassionate, trauma-informed EMDR care for California residents — in person (in San Diego) or virtually (across the state). Schedule a free 15 minute consultation today to learn more about EMDR and how it can support you in your therapy goals. We can’t wait to connect.
