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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) | MI Counseling

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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of therapy that helps the brain heal from hard or scary life events. If you feel “stuck” in fear, guilt, shame, panic, or bad memories, EMDR can help you feel safer in your body again. Our team offers Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in Michigan for adults, teens, and some children who want real relief—not just “coping.” You do not have to keep reliving the past to move forward.

Signs You Might Benefit

Trauma can come from many things, like abuse, accidents, medical events, loss, bullying, or growing up in a home that felt unsafe. Sometimes the event is “big.” Sometimes it is many “small” hurts over time. EMDR may help if you notice:

  • Flashbacks, nightmares, or scary images that pop into your mind
  • Feeling on edge, jumpy, or always watching for danger
  • Panic attacks or strong anxiety that feels hard to control
  • Avoiding places, people, or topics because they bring up fear
  • Shame, guilt, or a harsh inner voice that says “It was my fault”
  • Feeling numb, disconnected, or like you are not really “here”
  • Anger that comes fast, or tears that feel sudden and confusing
  • Low mood, hopelessness, or losing interest in things you used to enjoy
  • Body symptoms linked to stress (tight chest, stomach pain, headaches)
  • Trouble sleeping, focusing, or feeling close to others

Many people also choose EMDR to work on:

  • PTSD and complex trauma
  • Recent trauma (after a crash, assault, or medical scare)
  • Grief that feels “stuck”
  • Performance anxiety (sports, school, public speaking)
  • Phobias or strong fears that do not match the current danger

Evidence-Based Approach

EMDR is an evidence-based therapy for trauma and PTSD. It uses a structured approach to help the brain reprocess disturbing memories so they feel less intense and less “present.” EMDR does not erase what happened. Instead, it helps your mind store the memory in a healthier way so it no longer controls your day.

How EMDR Works (Simple Explanation)

When something overwhelming happens, the brain may store parts of the memory in a raw way—images, feelings, and body sensations can stay “stuck.” In EMDR, you focus on a memory for short sets while also doing bilateral stimulation (often side-to-side eye movements, tapping, or tones). This can help the brain connect the memory with more helpful information, like “I survived” or “I am safe now.”

Clinical Reasoning and Treatment Planning

We do not jump straight into the hardest memory. A careful plan matters. Your clinician will look at your history, your current symptoms, and your goals. We also check for things that may need extra support first, like unsafe living situations, active substance use, severe dissociation, or medical concerns. Your care plan may include:

  • Preparation and coping skills (grounding, breathing, sleep routines)
  • EMDR targeting specific memories, triggers, or body sensations
  • Parts work or ego-state informed strategies when helpful
  • Skills from CBT or DBT to support thoughts, emotions, and behavior
  • Coordination with your PCP, psychiatrist, or other providers (with your permission)

Research Support and Standards

Major health organizations recognize trauma-focused therapies, including EMDR, as effective care for PTSD. Reviews and clinical guidelines describe EMDR as a well-supported treatment. For more information, you can explore resources from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the American Psychological Association (APA).

  • NIH/National Library of Medicine (PubMed) provides access to peer-reviewed EMDR research.
  • APA resources discuss evidence-based psychotherapy approaches for trauma-related concerns.

In Michigan, counseling and therapy services are provided by clinicians licensed under Michigan’s professional licensing standards (for example, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Master’s Social Worker, Licensed Psychologist, and related credentials). We follow state scope-of-practice rules, ethics codes, and standards for privacy and documentation.

What to Expect

Starting therapy can feel scary, especially if you have been hurt before. We move at a pace that feels safe and respectful. You stay in control the whole time.

Step 1: Intake and First Visits

Your first appointment is for understanding what is bringing you in and what you want to change. We review:

  • Your current symptoms and daily stress
  • Your health history, sleep, and any medications
  • Past experiences that may still affect you
  • Strengths, supports, and what has helped before
  • Safety needs (including self-harm risk or unsafe relationships)

Your clinician will explain EMDR in plain language, answer questions, and confirm whether EMDR is a good fit right now. Some people start reprocessing within a few sessions. Others benefit from more prep time first.

Step 2: Preparation (Building Stability)

Preparation helps you feel ready. You may learn grounding skills to calm your nervous system, ways to handle triggers, and “safe place” or calming imagery. This step is especially important if you have long-term trauma, dissociation, or very high anxiety.

Step 3: EMDR Reprocessing Sessions

In a typical EMDR session, you will:

  • Pick a target (a memory, trigger, or body feeling)
  • Notice what you believe about yourself (example: “I am not safe”)
  • Track emotions and body sensations
  • Do short sets of bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or tones)
  • Pause to notice changes and continue at your pace

Some people feel tired after EMDR, or have vivid dreams. Many people notice relief, fewer triggers, and better sleep over time. We end sessions with grounding so you feel steady before you leave.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

It depends on your goals and history. A single recent trauma may take fewer sessions. Complex trauma often takes longer. We set clear goals and check progress regularly, so you always know the plan.

Insurance

Many clients use health insurance for therapy, including EMDR. Coverage depends on your plan, your benefits, and whether your clinician is in-network or out-of-network.

Copays, Deductibles, and Common Costs

  • Copay: A set amount you may pay per visit (example: $20–$50), even after deductible is met.
  • Deductible: The amount you may need to pay before insurance starts sharing costs.
  • Coinsurance: A percentage you may pay after deductible (example: 10–30%).

We can help you understand your benefits, but your insurance company is the best source for exact details. If you want, we can provide the billing codes commonly used for outpatient psychotherapy so you can call your plan and ask about coverage.

Mental Health Parity in Michigan

Mental health parity laws generally require many insurance plans to cover mental health care in a way that is similar to medical care. This may affect visit limits, cost-sharing, and authorization rules. Coverage still varies by employer plan and insurer, so benefit checks are important.

If You Are Paying Out of Pocket

We can discuss self-pay rates and provide a superbill when appropriate for out-of-network reimbursement. If cost is a barrier, ask about flexible options and referrals.

FAQ

Do I have to talk about every detail of my trauma in EMDR?

No. You share only what is needed for treatment. EMDR can work without telling the full story out loud. Your clinician will guide you in a way that protects your privacy and helps you feel safe.

Is EMDR safe if I feel panic or dissociation?

EMDR can still be a good option, but it must be paced carefully. If you dissociate, feel unreal, or lose time, we focus on stabilization first and use approaches that match your needs. Safety and consent guide every step.

What does the eye movement part look like?

Some people follow a clinician’s hand moving side to side. Others use tapping on the hands or knees, or alternating tones through headphones. The goal is gentle left-right stimulation while you focus in short sets.

How do I know if EMDR is right for me?

EMDR is often a strong fit if you have triggers, unwanted memories, or body-based fear that does not improve with talk therapy alone. The best next step is an intake visit to review your symptoms, goals, and readiness. If EMDR is not the best choice, we will recommend other evidence-based options.