02/17/2026
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based, trauma-focused psychotherapy grounded in the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model ๐ง
Under conditions of overwhelming stress, the brain may be unable to fully process an experience. Instead, elements of the memory โ emotions, body sensations, beliefs, and images โ can remain stored in a maladaptive state. These unprocessed memories continue to activate the nervous system as though the threat is still present โก
EMDR targets this mechanism directly.
Through bilateral stimulation, EMDR facilitates adaptive reprocessing, allowing traumatic material to integrate with existing memory networks and lose its distressing intensity.
Clinically, EMDR may support:
โข decreased amygdala reactivity
โข improved prefrontal regulation ๐ง
โข reduced physiological hyperarousal ๐ซ
โข resolution of trauma-linked negative cognitions
EMDR is commonly indicated for individuals experiencing:
โข PTSD or complex trauma
โข chronic hypervigilance or emotional dysregulation
โข intrusive memories or somatic symptoms
โข persistent trauma responses despite insight-oriented therapy
At New Focus Counseling, EMDR is delivered within a trauma-informed, phase-oriented framework, guided by clinical assessment and individualized treatment planning.
