EMDR Therapy in Madison, Wisconsin
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
In-person in Madison & virtual therapy throughout Wisconsin
A different kind of healing for trauma, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm
If you're feeling stuck in the past, haunted by memories, emotionally triggered by things that "shouldn't" bother you, or overwhelmed by anxiety—you're not alone. Maybe you've tried to talk it out, journal it away, or just "move on," but the pain keeps showing up in your body, your relationships, or your sleep.
Trauma has a way of living in the body even long after the danger has passed.
That's where EMDR therapy can help.
What If Healing Didn't Mean Reliving Everything?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful, evidence-based therapy that helps people heal from trauma without having to retell or relive every painful memory. Instead of talking through every detail, EMDR works directly with your brain’s natural ability to heal, so the past no longer runs your present.
EMDR therapy can help you:
Feel more calm and less reactive
Sleep better and regulate your emotions
Let go of shame, fear, or self-blame
Finally feel safe in your body again
What Is EMDR Therapy?
What It Is
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain heal from trauma. Instead of retelling every detail, it targets what got "stuck" and supports the brain in more adaptive processing.
How EMDR Works
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements, tapping, or sounds) to activate both sides of the brain. This helps shift memories that were stored in a heightened emotional state and allows the brain to reprocess them in a way that feels less overwhelming.
The Result
After successful EMDR treatment, the memories may still exist, but they no longer feel as distressing. You may notice fewer emotional triggers, more mental clarity, and a greater sense of safety and regulation in your day-to-day life.
Why EMDR Might Be Right for You
You might benefit from EMDR therapy if:
You’ve experienced childhood trauma or emotional neglect
You feel anxious, tense, or on edge—even when things seem “fine”
You’re caught in patterns you know aren’t helping, but can’t seem to change
You’re in a high-stress role (like healthcare, military, or caregiving)
Your body still reacts like the trauma is happening, even though you know it's in the past
You’re a survivor of abuse, violence, or sexual assault
The Benefits of EMDR Therapy
EMDR is a powerful tool for deep, lasting healing. Many people find it offers relief more quickly than traditional talk therapy.
Some of the key benefits include:
Reducing the emotional charge of past experiences
Healing without needing to verbalize every detail
Regulating the nervous system and improving emotional balance
Enhancing self-worth, sleep, and overall daily functioning
SAFE EMDR
Somatic and Attachment- Focused EMDR
SAFE EMDR combines traditional EMDR with an understanding of body-based responses and relationship patterns. It’s especially helpful if you’ve experienced complex trauma, emotional neglect, or relational wounds.
Instead of just focusing on individual memories, SAFE EMDR helps you gently explore the protective patterns you developed over time, often ones that helped you survive, but now get in the way of connection and self-trust.
Core Principles of SAFE EMDR:
Nonviolence
Respecting your autonomy and inner wisdom
Mindful Awareness
Staying present and compassionate
Compassionate Assumption
Understanding that all behaviors once served a purpose
Healthy Boundaries
Creating safety within yourself and with others
If you're wondering whether SAFE EMDR is the right fit, reach out for a free consultation.
EMDR Intensives: For Deeper Healing—At Your Pace
Sometimes weekly sessions just aren't enough, especially when you’re ready for a breakthrough. EMDR intensives offer extended, focused sessions to help you move through trauma more quickly and thoroughly
Extended, focused sessions for deeper work
Move through trauma more quickly and thoroughly
Breakthrough healing at your own pace
Whether you're processing a recent trauma or finally ready to address something long-buried, intensives allow for deep healing in a short amount of time.