EMDR Therapy Near Centennial 

Heal from trauma, anxiety, and distress with EMDR and Trauma Therapy

What Is Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR) Therapy?

EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured therapy and evidence-based reprocessing therapy that helps people work through distressing or traumatic experiences. It uses bilateral stimulation – such as guided eye movements or gentle tapping – to help “unstick” overwhelming memories so you can process them in a healthier way. This innovative therapy was developed in the late 1980s by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D. EMDR therapy is designed to help process distressing life events and adverse life experiences, which often underlie psychological trauma and emotional trauma.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn’t require you to relive every detail of your trauma. Instead, it shifts how trauma memories are stored in your brain so they no longer carry the same intense emotional charge. This approach is based on the Adaptive Information Processing model, which posits that unprocessed trauma memories and stressful events can lead to negative emotions, physical symptoms stemming from trauma, and mental health challenges. Many clients say they feel lighter, more grounded, and less reactive after just a few EMDR sessions. For those seeking effective trauma treatment in Centennial, EMDR offers a path to healing without having to go into exhaustive detail about the past.

EMDR is a structured therapy and a form of reprocessing therapy that uses EMDR processing to target specific trauma memories, also known as targeted memory, for adaptive resolution. The therapy process consists of eight phases that guide treatment, ensuring a structured and comprehensive approach to healing.

EMDR is particularly effective for:

  • Recovering from Trauma and PTSD: Processing painful memories from past traumatic events so they no longer haunt you. EMDR is effective for those with a PTSD diagnosis and posttraumatic stress disorder, including both single trauma victims and multiple trauma victims.

  • Reducing Anxiety and Panic: Easing chronic anxiety, panic attacks, and constant worry that interfere with daily life.

  • Healing Difficult Childhood Experiences: Addressing adverse childhood experiences or abuse that continue to affect you in adulthood.

  • Coping with Grief and Loss: Helping you move through the pain of loss or bereavement in a healthy way.

  • Shifting Negative Self-Beliefs: Transforming harmful beliefs about yourself into more positive, compassionate ones.

  • Anger Management: Addressing anger-related challenges and improving emotional regulation.

  • Low Self Esteem: Treating trauma-related issues such as low self-esteem and feelings of powerlessness.

  • Life Transition: Supporting adjustment to significant life changes and transitions.

EMDR treatment has been shown in clinical practice and research to produce successful treatment outcomes and significant treatment effects, often in fewer sessions than other therapies. It is recognized by major organizations, including Veterans Affairs, and is widely used in clinical practice.

During EMDR sessions, clients focus on a disturbing event or such memories while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation, such as rapid eye movement, which helps reprocess the trauma memory and reduce its emotional intensity. EMDR helps clients replace negative emotions and beliefs with a positive belief, and body sensation is also assessed as part of the process. Client reports are used to monitor progress and determine when a targeted memory has been sufficiently processed, supporting adaptive resolution and long-term healing.

At South Denver Therapy, we make sure each EMDR session is personalized and paced for your comfort. Whether you’re dealing with a recent event or long-standing emotional pain, EMDR can help you move forward one step at a time.

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How Effective Is EMDR Therapy for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?

EMDR therapy has earned a strong reputation as a highly effective treatment for trauma and post-traumatic stress. It’s backed by decades of clinical research showing that EMDR can significantly help people process painful memories and reduce emotional distress. By using bilateral stimulation (eye movements, sounds, or taps), EMDR activates your brain’s natural healing processes. This allows traumatic memories to be reprocessed in a way that drains away their intense emotion and helps you feel more in control of your thoughts and feelings. In fact, numerous studies have found EMDR to be very effective – often helping people heal more quickly than many traditional therapy methods. Major health organizations recognize EMDR as an evidence-based trauma treatment, and therapists have successfully used it not only for PTSD but also for anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and grief.

At South Denver Therapy, we’ve seen firsthand how EMDR can be life-changing. Many of our clients tell us they finally got “unstuck” after years of feeling held back by their past. For many, EMDR isn’t just effective – it’s empowering and transformative.

Hi, I’m Carissa! Let’s work together to heal, and transform through EMDR Therapy!

EMDR therapy is a powerful, evidence-based approach to addressing trauma and emotional distress. As a licensed professional, I’m dedicated to guiding you through this transformative journey so you can resolve past traumas and improve your overall well-being. In our EMDR sessions, we’ll work side by side to gently revisit and reprocess painful memories, reduce the distress they cause, and build healthier coping mechanisms. My goal is to support and empower you every step of the way. Let’s embark on this path to healing and recovery – enabling you to live a more balanced, fulfilling life.

How EMDR Therapy Can Help You


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Trauma Resolution

EMDR Therapy helps people process and release the emotional weight of traumatic events, allowing them to move forward with their lives.

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Symptom Reduction

You can improve overall mental health and effectively reduce symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

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Rapid Improvement

Many people notice faster, more noticeable progress with EMDR compared to traditional talk therapy – often feeling relief in a shorter time.

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Memory Reconsolidation

EMDR allows you to revisit painful memories in a safe way and “re-file” them in your mind. Over time, those memories lose their grip and no longer trigger you like they used to.

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Improved Emotional Regulation

This therapy equips you with tools to manage your emotions better, so you can respond to stress and challenges in a healthier, more balanced manner.

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Better Self-Understanding

By working through EMDR, you can gain deeper insight into your feelings, reactions, and behaviors – fostering personal growth and a stronger understanding of yourself and your past experiences.

Why Choose Us For EMDR Therapy

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Expertise and Experience 

Our therapists bring over six years of specialized experience in trauma therapy, so you receive the highest quality care.

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Non-judgmental and Compassionate

We provide a warm, understanding space where you can share openly without fear of judgment. You’ll be met with empathy and respect, no matter what you’ve been through.

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Cultural Sensitivity

We understand that everyone has their unique background and experiences, so we're committed to being culturally sensitive and respectful towards your individuality. 

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Free Consultation

We offer a free 15-minute initial consultation to talk about your needs and expectations. This gives us both a chance to ensure we’re the right fit before you begin therapy.

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Confidentiality & Privacy

Your privacy is extremely important to us. We maintain strict confidentiality, so you can feel safe knowing that everything you share stays secure and private.

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LGBTQ-Friendly

Our practice is a safe haven for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. We’re proud to be an LGBTQ-friendly space that welcomes and affirms all individuals and couples.

What Our Clients Say

Comparison to Other Therapies: EMDR vs Talk Therapy

When considering trauma treatment options, many people wonder how EMDR therapy compares to traditional talk therapy, such as psychodynamic therapy. While both approaches aim to help individuals heal from traumatic events, their methods are quite different. EMDR therapy uses eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) techniques, which involve bilateral stimulation—typically eye movements—to help the brain process and resolve traumatic memories. This process often leads to a reduction in emotional intensity and distressing symptoms in just a few sessions.

In contrast, talk therapy usually involves extended exposure to the traumatic event and focuses on discussing and challenging negative beliefs over time. While talk therapy can be effective, it may require more sessions and may not always provide the same rapid relief from PTSD symptoms as EMDR. The American Psychiatric Association and the World Health Organization both recognize EMDR as an effective treatment for PTSD, highlighting its value for those seeking to treat trauma. Many clients find that desensitization and reprocessing EMDR offers a more direct and efficient path to healing, especially when traumatic memories feel overwhelming or difficult to talk about in detail.

Reducing Physical Symptoms of Trauma with EMDR

Trauma doesn’t just affect your mind—it can also show up as physical symptoms, such as chronic pain or unexplained physical sensations. EMDR therapy is uniquely effective in addressing these issues by targeting the traumatic memories at their source. According to the Adaptive Information Processing model, traumatic events are stored in the brain along with the emotions, beliefs, and physical sensations experienced at the time. When these memories remain unprocessed, they can lead to ongoing physical symptoms and discomfort.

Through EMDR practice, clients are able to reprocess these traumatic memories, which often results in a noticeable reduction in physical symptoms. Many people report relief from chronic pain, tension, and other body sensations that previously seemed unmanageable. By addressing both the psychological and physical aspects of trauma, EMDR therapy supports overall mental health and helps clients regain a sense of control and well-being in their daily lives.

Online EMDR Therapy: Virtual Care Options

Online EMDR therapy offers a flexible and accessible way to receive trauma treatment from the comfort of your own home. With advances in telehealth, many EMDR therapists now provide effective treatment through secure video conferencing platforms. This virtual approach allows you to connect with a qualified therapist in real-time, making it easier to fit therapy into your schedule and eliminating the need for travel.

Online EMDR therapy is especially beneficial for individuals who live in remote areas, have mobility challenges, or simply prefer the convenience of virtual care. As with in-person sessions, it’s important to work with an experienced and licensed EMDR therapist to ensure you receive the highest quality of care. Whether you’re new to therapy or continuing your healing journey, online EMDR therapy can be a powerful and effective treatment option for addressing trauma and its lasting effects.

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Top Rated EMDR Therapy Near Centennial

Looking for EMDR therapy in Centennial? You’ve found the right place. South Denver Therapy is proud to serve the Centennial community with convenient options for care. Our nearest physical office is a short drive away in Castle Rock, and we also offer secure virtual therapy sessions – so you can get support in the way that works best for you. We’ve designed our therapeutic space to be welcoming and private, helping you feel safe as you work through trauma, anxiety, or other emotional challenges.

We understand how important it is that therapy is both accessible and tailored to your needs. That’s why every EMDR session with us is customized to support your unique healing process at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or picking up where you left off, our compassionate therapists are here to walk alongside you each step of the way.

Ready to try EMDR Therapy?

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The number of EMDR therapy sessions required for optimal results can vary from person to person. During your initial consultation, our experienced therapists work with you to assess your unique needs and develop a personalized treatment plan.

  • We understand that flexibility is crucial for our clients, so we offer in-person and online EMDR therapy sessions. You can choose the option that best suits your preferences and needs.

    Whether you prefer the convenience of virtual sessions or the comfort of face-to-face interactions, our therapists are here to accommodate your choice and provide the support you require.

  • We are an out-of-network provider and do not bill insurance directly. This allows us to offer personalized, client-centered care without restrictions from insurance companies, such as requiring a diagnosis or limiting session types. However, we’ve partnered with Mentaya, a service that helps you check your out-of-network benefits and may even file claims for you. You can use the tool on our FAQ webpage to see if you’re eligible for reimbursement.

    Our rate is $175/hr for EMDR.

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