Victoria SchmittDNP, PMHNP-BC, ANP-BC

EMDR Therapy

Helping the brain process what still feels unfinished.

EMDR is a structured therapy that can help reduce the emotional intensity of painful memories and support healing from trauma, anxiety, grief, and other distressing experiences.

A peaceful outdoor path with warm light

What EMDR Is

An evidence-informed therapy for painful memories and stuck patterns.

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is based on the idea that the brain has a natural capacity to process experiences, but overwhelming events can sometimes remain stored in ways that continue to trigger distress.

Through a structured process, EMDR helps patients revisit distressing material in a supported way while the brain engages in bilateral stimulation. Over time, the memory may feel less activating and more connected to a healthier perspective.

Who It Helps

EMDR may support people carrying distress that still affects daily life.

It is often associated with trauma and PTSD, but it may also help with anxiety, grief, panic, painful beliefs, and experiences that feel emotionally unresolved.

Trauma & PTSD

For intrusive memories, avoidance, hypervigilance, or feeling stuck in survival mode.

Anxiety & Panic

For distressing triggers, fear responses, and past experiences that continue to fuel anxiety.

Grief & Painful Beliefs

For experiences that shaped self-worth, safety, trust, or the ability to move forward.

How Treatment Works

EMDR is structured, paced, and collaborative.

Patients are not pushed into overwhelming material before they are ready. The process begins with preparation and continues with careful attention to safety and stabilization.

1

Preparation

Treatment begins by building understanding, safety, coping tools, and readiness before reprocessing begins.

2

Reprocessing

With guidance, patients focus on targeted material while using bilateral stimulation such as eye movements, tapping, or tones.

3

Integration

The work continues with reflection, stabilization, and noticing how the memory or belief feels different over time.

What To Expect

Encouraging, careful care at a pace that respects your nervous system.

EMDR can bring relief, but it is still meaningful clinical work. Dr. Schmitt helps patients understand the process, prepare well, and pause when needed.

New Patient Inquiries

Curious whether EMDR is right for you?

Contact the practice to ask about EMDR, trauma-informed care, and next steps for new patient inquiries.

Contact the Practice