Eye movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Relational EMDR (R-EMDR)
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy used to help people heal from the lasting effects of trauma and distressing life experiences.
When we go through experiences that feel too overwhelming to process at the time (whether early in life or during periods of intense stress) the brain may not fully integrate what happened. Instead, these experiences can become “stuck,” showing up later as anxiety, depression, emotional reactivity, or negative beliefs about yourself. EMDR helps the brain reprocess these experiences so they can be stored in a more adaptive, less distressing way. As this happens, the emotional intensity decreases, and you’re able to relate to the memory with greater clarity, stability, and a stronger sense of self.
During EMDR, we use gentle bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements or tapping) while you briefly focus on aspects of a memory. This allows your brain’s natural healing system to do what it was originally meant to do; integrate the experience and shift how you relate to it.
Over time, memories that once felt overwhelming begin to feel more distant, and negative beliefs (like “I’m not safe” or “I’m not enough”) can shift into more adaptive, grounded perspectives.
EMDR therapy is also a highly effective, approach for treating trauma, including single-incident events as well as PTSD. It helps the brain reprocess these experiences so they are no longer stored in a distressing way.
what is Relational EMDR (R-EMDR)
Relational EMDR (R-EMDR) builds on this foundation by placing greater emphasis on the therapeutic relationship and the role of attachment in healing. This approach is especially helpful for individuals navigating developmental trauma, relational wounds, and long-standing emotional patterns.
In R-EMDR, the work focuses not only on past experiences, but also on what unfolds in the present moment between therapist and client. Within a safe, attuned, and collaborative space, clients are supported in reprocessing trauma, strengthening emotional regulation, and developing a more secure and connected sense of self.
R-EMDR was developed by Deany Laliotis through decades of clinical practice, teaching, facilitation, and consultation. Her work expands upon traditional EMDR by integrating deeper emotional attunement and emphasizing the central role of the therapeutic relationship in the healing process.
How This Work Helps
Both EMDR and R-EMDR aim to help you:
Reduce the emotional intensity of past experiences
Shift negative core beliefs
Feel more present and grounded in your daily life
Develop more adaptive ways of coping
Experience greater ease in relationships
Rather than just managing symptoms, this work supports deeper healing; so you can move through life with more clarity, resilience, and a stronger sense of self.
