If you’ve been researching trauma treatment, you’ve likely encountered two broad categories: EMDR — which uses eye movements while you hold a memory in mind — and traditional trauma counseling, which involves processing what happened through conversation.
Both have solid research behind them. Both help people. But they work differently and suit different clients.
At Artisan Counseling, counselors trained in both approaches help you identify what fits your history and your nervous system.
What EMDR Is
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It’s based on the idea that traumatic memories get stored in a raw, unprocessed state — keeping the original emotion, physical sensation, and beliefs attached.
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones) while you hold the target memory in mind. Current thinking suggests this mimics what happens during REM sleep, allowing stuck memories to move into integrated long-term storage.
You don’t need to describe your trauma in detail — the processing happens internally.
Learn more: EMDR Therapy at Artisan Counseling
What Traditional Trauma Counseling Includes
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
A structured 12-session protocol developed by the VA. Focuses on beliefs formed because of the trauma (“it was my fault,” “the world is dangerous”). Involves writing and examining thinking patterns.
Prolonged Exposure (PE)
Developed by Edna Foa. Gradual exposure to the memory and avoided situations. Teaches the brain the danger is no longer present. Includes recording and listening to trauma descriptions between sessions.
Trauma-Focused CBT
For children and adolescents. Combines cognitive techniques, gradual exposure, and skill-building over 12–16 sessions. Parents typically participate.
Open-Ended Trauma Work
For complex, diffuse, or relational trauma. Draws on attachment-based or psychodynamic frameworks with an individualized pace.
Related: Trauma-Informed Therapy
How They Differ
| Feature | EMDR | Traditional Talk-Based |
| Verbal description | Not required | Often detailed |
| Pace | Can be faster (6–12 sessions for single event) | 12+ sessions per protocol |
| Between-session work | Minimal | Often substantial homework |
| Session feel | More internal, less verbal | More conversational |
| Best for | Single-incident trauma, those who freeze when talking | Clients comfortable with structured verbal work |
Where EMDR Tends to Fit
- Single-incident trauma (accident, assault, medical event)
- Clients who find it difficult to describe trauma aloud
- People who have “talked about it” but still feel emotionally stuck
Where Traditional Approaches Tend to Fit
- Clients who process well through structured verbal engagement
- Those who want to actively examine trauma-formed beliefs
- Clients with diffuse, relational, or developmental trauma who prefer a slower pace
Most Counselors Use a Mix
In practice, the line is rarely rigid. A counselor may use EMDR for specific memory processing, CBT for belief restructuring, and somatic therapy to address what’s held in the body.
The right approach is the one that fits your brain, your history, and what your nervous system can hold.
If one approach hasn’t worked before, that doesn’t mean trauma counseling won’t work — it often means a different door is the right one.
Contact Artisan Counseling to discuss your options: 757.503.2819
