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What is EMDR

​Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach developed by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D., in 1987 to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other distressing life experiences. EMDR involves recalling traumatic memories while engaging in side-to-side eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, aiming to reduce the emotional impact of these memories.
This method has been recommended for PTSD treatment by organizations such as the World Health Organization and the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. ​

How Does EMDR Differ from Traditional Therapy?

Unlike traditional talk therapy, which primarily focuses on discussing and analyzing past experiences, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) takes a more structured and neurologically based approach to healing. Rather than just talking through distressing events, EMDR actively works to reprocess and resolve the emotional and psychological impact of trauma.

EMDR therapy helps to retrain the brain’s natural healing process, reducing the emotional charge of painful memories and changing the way they influence thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By using bilateral stimulation techniques, such as guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory cues, EMDR allows the brain to reprocess distressing experiences in a way that fosters emotional resilience and long-term healing.
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This approach is particularly effective for individuals struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related symptoms, providing relief without the need for extensive verbal processing or re-experiencing distressing memories in detail.



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Who can benefit from EMDR therapy

EMDR can be helpful for children and adults of various ages. EMDR can be useful in addressing:
  • Anxiety, panic attacks, and other phobias
  • Grief and loss
  • PTSD and other traumatic experiences
  • Sexual assault
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Substance abuse and addiction
  • Violence and abuse
  • Performance anxiety
  • Eating disorders
  • Dissociative disorders
  • Depression and Bipolar

"In times of stress, the best thing we can do for each other is to listen with our ears and our hearts and to be assured that our questions are just important as our answers."

-FRED "MISTER" ROGERS

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I help individual adults navigate life’s challenges by using EMDR therapy, an evidence-based approach to healing from trauma, anxiety, and emotional distress.
If you're ready to make a change and want a safe, supportive space to begin your journey, reach out today. I offer a FREE 15-minute consultation to see how we can work together.
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​Christina Granillo, LMFT 
73-550 Alessandro Drive
Ste 200
Palm Desert, CA 92260

Phone: (760) 406-2030
[email protected]

Hours:
Office hours vary, available Monday- Friday 9-5 pm​

How can EMDR help me?

EMDR could be helpful for you if you struggle to move forward due to difficult past experiences. It helps with emotional regulation, stabilization, and provides coping strategies that you can do anywhere, anytime.

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