By Claudia Pittard, Remain Connected Graduate Intern
Most of us have memories we would rather forget—moments that resurface at the worst times, like heavy luggage we never chose to carry. For many, these memories feel impossible to shake, creating anxiety, stress, and even physical reactions. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapy that can help reprocess these kinds of painful memories, allowing us to live more fully in the present.
What is EMDR?
EMDR helps people process and find relief from traumatic or troubling memories. When we go through something stressful, our brains sometimes store that experience in a way that keeps it feeling raw and intense. Imagine someone who’s been in a car accident. Even though they’re safe now, each time they sit in a car, they may feel a surge of anxiety as memories of the crash flood back. EMDR uses a process called bilateral stimulation—often side-to-side eye movements guided by a therapist—to help the brain “digest” these memories, gradually reducing their emotional impact.
How EMDR Helps Ease Trauma’s Grip
Getting “Unstuck” from Painful Memories: EMDR allows the brain to reprocess traumatic memories so they lose their emotional charge. For someone who’s survived a car accident, each session helps the memory feel more like something in the past rather than something lurking in the present.
Breaking Free of Negative Patterns: Trauma often leads to patterns of avoidance or fear. For example, someone might begin to avoid driving or feel tense in situations related to cars. EMDR can disrupt these cycles, offering freedom to live without feeling defined by the trauma.
Reducing Emotional Reactions: Many people find that EMDR reduces anxiety, depression, or other symptoms tied to difficult memories. In the case of a car accident survivor, their anxiety around driving may gradually decrease, allowing them to enjoy road trips again with a sense of calm.
Improving Relationships and Self-Connection: Trauma can create emotional walls or triggers that get in the way of connecting with others. By processing these experiences, we can open up more fully to ourselves and the people around us, no longer held back by fear or avoidance.
Is EMDR Right for You?
If you find yourself revisiting certain memories that bring stress or anxiety—or if you notice certain fears limiting your life—EMDR may be worth considering. It’s not about making memories disappear, but about freeing yourself from the weight they carry.
With a trained therapist, EMDR can offer relief, helping us let go of the past and embrace a life where memories no longer hold us back.
Begin Working With A Therapist in Marietta, Roswell, or Cartersville GA
Please consider reaching out to a qualified therapist. Our team of caring therapists would be honored to offer support with in-person and online services from our Marietta, GA-based practice. You can start your therapy journey by following these simple steps:
Reach out to talk to a Marietta, Roswell, or Cartersville therapist.
Have your first appointment at Remain Connected.
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Other Services Offered at Remain Connected Counseling
Our team knows you may experience other issues in your life. This is why we are happy to offer a variety of services including teen therapy, anxiety treatment, and EMDR therapy. In addition, we also offer life transitions therapy and depression counseling, and more all under a Christian counseling lens. By using online therapy, these services are available to anyone in Georgia. Learn more about our team of dedicated therapists and contact us!
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