Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)“The past affects the present even without our being aware of it.”
― Francine Shapiro
EMDR Therapy for Healing and Lasting Change
Therapy is powerful, but some healing requires more than words. When talk therapy alone is not enough, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) offers a research-backed approach that helps you process and heal from the past.
At VG Therapy Collective, we provide EMDR therapy in Gilbert in both traditional weekly sessions and extended EMDR intensives to help you move beyond emotional chaos and unresolved pain. EMDR can support healing from trauma, anxiety, attachment wounds, and limiting beliefs that impact your sense of safety, self-worth, and connection.
Our therapists guide you through this process with compassion and strategy, helping you find clarity, strengthen relationships, and live a more connected life.
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Feelings of “I am a failure” and “I am not enough”
Complex, relational, and childhood trauma
Intrusive feelings of shame & guilt
Fear of being alone
Difficulties with trust
Relationship issues
Attachment injuries
Suicidal thoughts and feelings
Grief and loss
What to Expect
During EMDR therapy, you'll be guided to focus on specific memories or negative beliefs while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, taps, or sounds. This bilateral stimulation allows your brain to reprocess the distressing memories in a new and adaptive way, leading to resolution and emotional healing.
EMDR is a collaborative and structured therapy approach that respects your unique experiences and focuses on your strengths. It can help you gain new insights, enhance self-awareness, and develop healthier coping strategies.
The Process of EMDR Therapy
During our consultation call, we will determine if we are a good fit to work together. If so, we will schedule the following appointments and identify the session path that aligns best with your needs, whether that be traditional or extended. Please note that all initial sessions are 90 minutes.
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You will meet with your therapist for the initial 90-minute session to discuss why you are seeking EMDR therapy now. We will explore your inner world, including how you manage stress, trauma activators, and relationships.
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In the second appointment, you and your therapist will collaboratively create goals for your work ahead. These goals are crucial for maintaining focus and accountability. Your therapist will also share their vision for helping you achieve the change you are ready for.
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You will then continue with weekly or bi-weekly sessions, depending on whether you choose traditional or extended formats, working towards your established goals. EMDR therapy follows a phased approach, including history taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation. Your therapist will support you through every step of the process.
“Changing the memories that form the way we see ourselves also changes the way we view others. Therefore, our relationships, job performance, what we are willing to do or are able to resist, all move in a positive direction.”
― Francine Shapiro