EMDR Therapy works by having the client recall distressing memories while the therapist directs their eye movements or provides other bilateral stimulation (such as hand tapping or auditory tones). This process helps the brain reprocess the traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge and integrating them into the client’s broader life narrative. The stimulation facilitates the processing of the trauma, leading to a decrease in symptoms and an increase in adaptive coping mechanisms. This method can be particularly effective for individuals with PTSD and other trauma-related conditions.

EMDR Therapy helps individuals who have experienced trauma, such as those with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, phobias, and other emotional distress resulting from disturbing life events. It is particularly beneficial for people who have not found relief through traditional talk therapy methods, as it addresses the root of traumatic memories and helps in reducing their emotional impact. EMDR can also assist individuals dealing with grief, panic disorders, and various forms of addiction, providing a comprehensive approach to mental health recovery.

In general, there are times when an EMDR intensive may not be appropriate. Intensives are effective but can be tiring for the client. During our 20 minute consultation we will discuss if this work is suitable for your needs. In general times when an intensive is not appropriate include a) if you are in crisis and are experiencing suicidal thoughts or engaging in self-harm it is imperative that you engage in stabilizing work prior to committing to an intensive, b) if you are struggling with addiction you will first need to get the necessary support to address addiction, c) you have a history of addiction but have been in recovery for a significant period of time then an EMDR intensive may be a good fit for you, or d) if you have a significant amount of dissociation you may need to gain skills in weekly therapy to manage dissociation prior to engaging in an intensive.

Full-day intensives are $1,000 per day and range from 1-3 days depending on what we decide is most effective for you. Half-day intensives last four hours at $800. A 50% deposit is required to hold your appointment. The remaining balance is charged at the beginning of the first day of your session.

When you have your 20-minute consultation we will make a decision on the right amount of time for your intensive. Multiple full-day intensives are often best to address complex trauma and childhood trauma. Half-day intensives tend to work best for more recent events or a single incident trauma.

If you need to reschedule your intensive, please contact me as soon as possible. If you make the request to reschedule 30 days prior to your intensive this will not affect your deposit. If you need to cancel your intensive and provide thirty days’ notice, any deposit money already paid will be returned minus the $200 scheduling fee. If you do not provide thirty days’ notice of cancellation deposits are fully non-refundable.

When you have your 20-minute consultation we will make a decision on the right amount of time for your intensive. Multiple full-day intensives are often best to address complex trauma and childhood trauma. Half-day intensives tend to work best for more recent events or a single incident trauma.

Full-day intensives last from 9AM-3PM with an hour for lunch. I am currently scheduling intensives for 1-3 days. If, at the end of your intensive you believe you would benefit from additional days, you are welcome to schedule another intensive.

Intensives take place in my office in Roanoke, Virginia. You do not have to live in Roanoke to schedule an intensive. If you are traveling from outside the area, I can provide a list of lodging and dining options. Additionally, I offer virtual intensives.