Target trauma at its core with innovative Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). The #1 recognized treatment for trauma and PTSD by the World Health Organization and the National Center for Veterans Affairs.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy initially designed for the treatment of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It can also support recovery from other mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression, by reprocessing trauma and restructuring how the brain regulates distress.
It is recognized by several health organizations as a leading treatment for trauma disorders, and most patients see an improvement in symptoms after 6 to 12 sessions.
EMDR uses guided eye movements, memory recall, and auditory stimulation using tapping or vibrations to help the brain process trauma. Patients attend EMDR sessions one to two times a week, and the course of treatment typically lasts 3 months, but can vary.
Phase 1: Psychological History
The therapist conducts an in-depth psychological history and gathers detailed information about the patient, focusing on traumatic experiences and current symptoms. This phase helps identify target memories to be reprocessed and ensures the patient is in a safe mental state to participate in EMDR. From there, a personalized treatment plan is developed and helps guide the rest of the process.
Phase 2: Preparation
Phase 3: Assessment
Phase 4: Desensitization
Phase 5: Installation
The patient focuses on strengthening the positive beliefs identified in phase 3, and the therapist helps them internalize this as true. Bilateral stimulation is used to reinforce this new belief and healthier cognitive patterns. This helps replace old negative beliefs associated with the trauma.
Phase 6: Body Scan
Phase 7: Closure
Phase 8: Reevaluation
Recognized by several mental health and trauma organizations, EMDR is well-researched, and individuals report many benefits after attending treatment. It targets trauma at the core, helping to regulate the nervous system and somatic symptoms that accompany trauma, rather than just teaching patients to manage symptoms. This leads to longer-lasting healing of the mind and body.
Experienced and Certified EMDR Therapists
Principles of Trauma-Informed Care
Often Recognized and Covered By Insurance
We accept most major commercial insurance providers, and EMDR is often covered for anywhere from 8 to 16 sessions. Most of our patients report improvement of symptoms in trauma and PTSD after just 6 to 12 sessions.
EMDR is growing in popularity not only for its effectiveness, but for its ability to provide innovative trauma treatment at an affordable price.
Unresolved trauma can increase the risk of mental health problems. Symptoms of untreated trauma and PTSD include shame, guilt, isolation, lack of purpose, rumination, mood swings, changes in sleep and appetite, and strained relationships or inability to trust. Many of the symptoms of trauma mimic other mental health disorders, or worsen symptoms of co-existing mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety.
I was nervous coming here, but the staff made me feel welcome right away. The groups and support really helped me see I’m not alone in this. I’m leaving with hope and a plan for my life.
Emily O’Connor, Boston, MA
This place gave me my life back. I didn’t think anything could help, but the team here really cared. They taught me how to deal with tough days and not give up.
Michael Russo, Worcester, MA
When I came in, I was lost. Now I feel stronger, and I know what steps to take. The people here treated me like a person, not just a patient.
Patrick Donnelly, Cambridge, MA
