Artisan Counseling Blog

Artisan Counseling is dedicated to the craft of individual, couples and family counseling. In order to achieve this goal we are creating a blog that is designed to provide additional information and resources for clients, counselors and anyone a helping profession. The Artisan Blog may include information about books, articles and other helpful resources but honestly this is our first blog so we will see how it goes.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

By: Artisan Team
February 18, 2026
7:27 pm

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.

It is one of the most researched and widely recognized treatments for trauma.

At Artisan Counseling, trained counselors provide EMDR therapy in Newport News, Suffolk, and virtually across Virginia.

How EMDR Works

Traumatic memories sometimes become “stuck” in the nervous system.

Instead of being processed and filed away, they continue triggering:

Flashbacks
Nightmares
Anxiety
Emotional reactivity

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones) to help the brain reprocess those memories.

The 8 Phases of EMDR

History & Treatment Planning
Preparation & Coping Skills
Assessment of Target Memory
Desensitization
Installation of Positive Belief
Body Scan
Closure
Reevaluation

This structured approach makes EMDR both safe and effective.

What EMDR Is Used For

EMDR is recognized by:

The World Health Organization
The Department of Veterans Affairs
The American Psychological Association

It is effective for:

PTSD
Childhood trauma
Sexual assault recovery
Combat trauma
Phobias
Grief
Performance anxiety

Learn more:
👉 EMDR Therapy at Artisan Counseling

What an EMDR Session Feels Like

Many clients describe:

Intensity during processing
Relief afterward
Emotional shifts between sessions

You do not need to describe every detail of your trauma aloud. That makes EMDR especially helpful for clients who struggle to verbalize painful experiences.