Lauren Cooper, LPC
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in GUNNISON & Crested Butte
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured, evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals heal from trauma and distressing life experiences.
According to the EMDR International Association, EMDR therapy works by helping the brain reprocess difficult memories so they are no longer as emotionally overwhelming. During sessions, clients briefly focus on a distressing memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements), which supports the brain’s natural healing processes.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR does not require clients to go into extensive detail about their experiences. Instead, it helps the brain resolve unprocessed memories, reducing emotional distress while allowing more adaptive beliefs to emerge.
Why EMDR?
EMDR therapy is:
- Extensively researched and evidence-based
- Recognized as effective by major health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), American Psychological Association (APA), and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
- A first-line treatment for trauma and PTSD in multiple clinical guidelines
Research shows EMDR can help individuals experience relief from:
- Trauma and PTSD
- Anxiety and panic
- Depression
- Grief and loss
- Phobias and performance anxiety
- Other distressing or overwhelming life experiences
How EMDR Works
EMDR is based on the understanding that the brain naturally processes experiences toward healing. When a traumatic event overwhelms this system, memories can become “stuck,” causing ongoing emotional distress.
EMDR helps “unlock” these memories so they can be processed in a healthier way—reducing symptoms and restoring a sense of safety and control.
What Clients Can Expect
EMDR follows an eight-phase structured approach and is provided by a trained clinician. Many clients experience meaningful progress in fewer sessions compared to traditional therapies, though treatment length varies