EMDR Therapy — Because Healing Shouldn’t Have to Wait

Unpack the Past. Reclaim Your Present. Believe in Your Future.

We know life doesn’t always play fair. The scars of trauma, anxiety, and stress can weigh you down, leaving you feeling like you’re stuck in a story you didn’t write. That’s where EMDR Therapy comes in — not as some stuffy, one-size-fits-all solution, but as a powerful, proven path to healing.

You deserve the chance to break free, and we’re here to help you do just that.

Explore Our Services -or-Meet Our Therapists

What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) isn’t your typical therapy.

It’s not about endless talking or trudging through your pain without relief. EMDR is a science-backed approach designed to help your brain process unresolved memories that keep holding you back. Through guided bilateral stimulation — typically through eye movements — your mind taps into its natural healing ability, like closing the loop on unfinished business. It’s therapy that gets things done.

As therapists, we chose to focus specifically on offering EMDR therapy in our practice because we believe in helping our clients find meaningful, lasting change as quickly as possible. Mental health should absolutely be a key part of a balanced, healthy lifestyle — but going to therapy forever shouldn’t have to be. Our greatest honor is when clients no longer need us because they’ve truly healed, and EMDR is the only modality we’ve seen that consistently makes this possible.

EMDR has the unique ability to address the root of emotional pain — rather than just coping with symptoms. This sets EMDR apart for creating deep, permanent healing.

EMDR therapy has earned a strong reputation in the mental health field, and its popularity continues to grow for good reason. People experience transformative results with this approach, often in far fewer sessions than they expect. From easing anxiety and depression to helping individuals move beyond painful pasts, EMDR is changing lives in ways other therapies often can’t.

If you’re ready to experience this for yourself and you live in Florida, working with one of our experienced, EMDRIA-approved EMDR therapists could be the first step toward the peace and healing you’ve been looking for and deserve.

How EMDR Therapy Works: A Step-by-Step Overview

EMDR Therapy follows an 8-phase process designed to help you heal safely and effectively. Each phase is essential, ensuring your experience is personalized and empowering.

Here’s what it looks like:

^1. History-Taking:

Your therapist will learn about your experiences and understand what brought you to therapy.

^2. Preparation:

You’ll gain tools and coping strategies to manage any discomfort that may arise during the process.

^3. Assessment:

In this phase, the target memories or negative beliefs that need processing are identified.

^4. Desensitization:

With bilateral stimulation, the emotional intensity of these thoughts or memories is reduced.

^5. Installation:

Your therapist will help you replace negative beliefs with positive, empowering ones.

^6. Body Scan:

You’ll check in with your body to ensure emotional release and resolution.

^7. Closure:

Each session ends with grounding techniques, ensuring you feel safe and supported.

^8. Re-evaluation:

In follow-up sessions, progress is assessed, and adjustments are made as needed.

These phases aren’t rushed. EMDR Therapy moves at your pace — your healing, your timeline.

The Science & History Behind EMDR: Why It Works

Your brain is designed to heal. Just like your body forms a scab over a cut, your mind knows how to mend emotional wounds. But when trauma blocks that natural process, it’s like a loop that won’t stop playing. EMDR helps your brain cut the noise, process the past, and find peace. Research shows it works faster and more effectively than traditional talk therapy, often providing relief in fewer sessions.

EMDR Therapy was developed in the late 1980s by Dr. Francine Shapiro, a psychologist who made a groundbreaking discovery while walking in a park. She noticed that certain eye movements seemed to reduce the intensity of her own distressing thoughts. Through further research and clinical trials, Dr. Shapiro refined this technique into Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy.

Initially designed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR quickly gained recognition for its effectiveness in processing traumatic memories. Today, it’s endorsed by leading organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

With decades of research backing its success, EMDR Therapy has expanded to help people overcome a wide range of mental health challenges, offering relief, resilience, and renewed confidence.

Who Can Benefit from EMDR Therapy?

Spoiler: It’s not just for trauma.

Sure, EMDR is widely known for its effectiveness in treating PTSD, but that’s just the beginning. If life’s thrown some punches — anxiety, depression, burnout, or the crushing weight of self-doubt — EMDR Therapy can help you bounce back. Whether you’ve been told to “just get over it” or feel like no one gets it, we’re here to prove otherwise.

^Trauma and PTSD:

EMDR is the gold standard for treating past wounds that refuse to stay in the past.

^Anxiety and Depression:

When overthinking and exhaustion take over, EMDR helps break free from the cycle.

^ADHD and Neurodivergent Support:

Your mind moves fast, and we celebrate that. EMDR offers relief from the emotional strain that can come with it.

^Grief and Loss:

There’s no “right” way to grieve, but there are ways to heal. EMDR can help you carry memories without the weight.

^Self-Esteem and Empowerment:

Rewrite the story of who you are — not the one your past tried to write for you.

If you’ve ever felt like therapy wasn’t “working” for you, EMDR might be the approach that finally does.

We Can Use EMDR For

ADHD

Anger

Anxiety

Childhood Trauma

Depression

Dissociative Disorder

Fear

Grief

Imposter Syndrome

Self Esteem

Nightmares

Panic Attacks

Performance Anxiety

Phobias

PTSD

Social Anxiety

Stress

Trauma

Debunking EMDR Myths

EMDR Therapy has been around for decades, backed by extensive research and trusted by mental health professionals worldwide. But like many transformative therapies, it’s often misunderstood. Let’s break down some of the most common myths about EMDR and get to the truth.

^Myth 1: EMDR Erases Memories

Truth: EMDR doesn’t erase memories — it helps you process them. The goal isn’t to forget what happened but to reduce the emotional charge those memories hold. After EMDR, many people find they can remember past events without the overwhelming distress that once accompanied them.

^Myth 2: EMDR is Hypnosis

Truth: EMDR and hypnosis are entirely different. During EMDR, you remain fully awake, aware, and in control. The bilateral stimulation used in EMDR simply helps your brain process memories more effectively, while you remain an active participant in your healing process.

^Myth 3: You Have to Relive Trauma in Detail

Truth: Unlike some therapies that require detailed retelling of traumatic events, EMDR focuses on how memories are stored in your brain rather than the details themselves. While some memories may surface, your therapist will guide you through the experience safely, using grounding techniques to keep you regulated.

^Myth 4: EMDR Only Works for PTSD

Truth: While EMDR is well-known for its success in treating PTSD, it’s also highly effective for anxiety, depression, phobias, grief, and even performance anxiety. Many people seek EMDR to address negative beliefs and emotional blocks, not just trauma.

^Myth 5: EMDR Is a Quick Fix

Truth: Healing takes time, and while EMDR is often faster than traditional talk therapy, it’s not an instant solution. The number of sessions varies depending on your experiences and goals. What makes EMDR unique is its ability to bring relief more efficiently by directly targeting the root of distress.

^Myth 6: Virtual EMDR Therapy is Less Effective

Truth: Studies show that virtual EMDR Therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy. Through secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms, you can experience the full benefits of EMDR from the comfort of your own space. Many people even prefer the added sense of safety and convenience that virtual sessions provide.

^Myth 7: EMDR is Only for Severe Trauma

Truth: While EMDR is a powerful tool for those with severe trauma, it’s also beneficial for anyone struggling with emotional pain or negative self-beliefs. From everyday stress to unresolved relationship patterns, EMDR can help you gain clarity and relief.

The Bottom Line:

If fear or uncertainty about EMDR has held you back, know this: you’re not alone. Misconceptions are common, but the truth is that EMDR Therapy is a compassionate, empowering approach to healing. At Very Good Mind, we’re here to answer your questions and support you every step of the way.

Is EMDR Right for You?

You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Maybe you’ve been coping for so long that the idea of feeling different seems impossible. Maybe you’ve tried therapy before and felt like it barely scratched the surface. EMDR Therapy offers a fresh start — no endless retelling, no forced positivity, just a clear path forward.

Here are some signs that EMDR might be the right fit for you:

You have memories that feel intrusive or overwhelming.
You struggle with anxiety, panic, or persistent self-doubt.
Past experiences are impacting your present relationships or decisions.
You feel emotionally numb or disconnected.
You’re ready for change but aren’t sure where to start.

If any of this resonates, we’re here to explore what healing could look like — together.

Explore Our Services -or-Meet Our Therapists

What to Expect During EMDR Therapy

Curious but unsure? We’ve got you.

Starting therapy can be intimidating, especially if other approaches have left you feeling stuck. EMDR is different. It’s designed to work with your brain’s natural processing abilities, making progress feel empowering rather than overwhelming.

Here’s how it typically unfolds:

^Session One:

We get to know you — your story, your strengths, your goals.

^Establishing Safety:

Before we dive into any tough stuff, we ensure you feel grounded and secure with practical coping tools.

^Targeting Memories:

Together, we identify memories or experiences that are causing distress. Think of it like marking the spots where your mind got stuck.

^Processing:

Using bilateral stimulation, your brain begins to process those memories, reducing their emotional charge.

^Reclaiming Your Life:

As the distress lessens, you’ll notice new insights, emotional freedom, and a growing sense of self-trust.

This isn’t about reliving your pain — it’s about releasing it.

Virtual EMDR Therapy at Very Good Mind

Healing That Comes to You.

Life doesn’t pause for healing, and sometimes, the best support is the one that fits into your world. At Very Good Mind, we offer Virtual EMDR Therapy that’s just as effective as in-person care — minus the commute. Whether you’re managing a packed schedule, prefer the comfort of your own space, or simply want access to the best therapists in Florida, we’ve got you covered.

Explore Our Services -or-Meet Our Therapists

Frequently Asked Questions about EMDR

How long does EMDR therapy take?

The length of EMDR Therapy varies for each person. Some people experience significant relief in as few as 6 to 12 sessions or less, while others may benefit from a longer course of treatment. Your therapist will collaborate with you to create a plan that works for your unique goals.

Can EMDR work for complex trauma?

Absolutely. EMDR is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating complex trauma. While healing complex trauma may take longer, EMDR’s structured approach allows your brain to process even deeply rooted memories safely and gradually.

What if I've tried other therapies before?

If other therapies haven’t worked, EMDR could be the breakthrough you’re looking for. Because it directly targets how memories are stored in the brain, it often achieves results that other therapies might not.

Is EMDR therapy safe?

Yes, EMDR Therapy is considered a safe and effective treatment when facilitated by a trained therapist. During sessions, your therapist will guide you through memories at a pace that feels manageable. If distress arises, grounding techniques are used to ensure you feel supported.

Can I do EMDR therapy if I don't remember all the details of my trauma?

Absolutely. EMDR doesn’t require you to recall every detail of a traumatic experience. The therapy focuses on how the memory is stored in your brain, working to reduce its emotional impact even if the memories are fragmented or unclear.

Will I lose control during EMDR?

No, you remain fully in control during EMDR Therapy. Unlike hypnosis, you are awake, aware, and actively participating in the process. Your therapist will check in with you throughout the session to ensure you feel comfortable.

What should I expect after an EMDR session?

It’s common to experience a range of emotions following an EMDR session, including relief, fatigue, or lingering thoughts. These reactions are a natural part of the healing process. Your therapist will provide guidance on self-care between sessions.

You Matter. Healing Is Possible.

Life may have thrown more at you than you ever thought you could handle. The echoes of the past might feel loud, and the weight you carry may seem unbearable. But you’re still standing. And that says everything about your resilience.

At Very Good Mind, we don’t believe in quick fixes or surface-level solutions. We believe in real, lasting healing — the kind that allows you to reclaim your story and live with freedom. EMDR Therapy is a powerful way to break free from the patterns that have held you back and step into the life you deserve.

Your experiences have shaped you, but they don’t define you. With EMDR, we’ll work together to release the pain of the past, so you can find clarity, confidence, and peace.

No judgment. No pressure. Just a compassionate team, standing with you every step of the way.

Your healing journey starts now.

Book Your First Appointment with Us

You are more than your trauma. And healing? It’s not just possible. It’s waiting for you.

Our Team

Elena Engle, LMHC-S

Founder & EMDR Consultant

Elena founded our practice in 2021. As a therapist, she finds that specializing in EMDR therapy elevates her abilities to help individuals with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Passionate about freeing people from years of negative thoughts and destructive habits, Elena is a Transformational EMDR™ Certified Therapist committed to helping individuals find liberation from their past, embracing their truest selves.

View Elena's Profile

Robert Engle, LMHC-S

Co-Founder & EMDR Therapist

Robert joined the practice in 2022 to help neurodivergent individuals with ADHD, anxiety, and depression find freedom and enjoy life through counseling. He is currently working towards becoming a Certified ADHD Professional (ADHD-CCSP). Trained in EMDR therapy, he excels at understanding the intricacies of ADHD and Trauma. As a private practice coach, Robert excels at helping therapists expand their impact.

View Robert's Profile

Katelin Koontz, RMHCI

EMDR Therapist

Katelin is well-versed in working with individuals who are living with trauma, anxiety, stress, burnout, grief, depression and relationship issues. Passionate about guiding clients through the process of self-discovery and finding inner peace, she specializes in using yoga, mindfulness-based approaches and EMDR to help clients shift negative beliefs and experience rapid, lasting relief.

View Katelin's Profile

Erin Brewer, LMHC-QS

EMDR Therapist

Erin is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and EMDRIA-approved EMDR provider with over 12 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, and families overcome significant mental health challenges and life transitions. Known for her empathy, creativity, and humor, Erin creates a safe, supportive space where clients feel empowered to embrace growth and lasting change.

View Erin's Profile