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EMDR Therapy With Licensed Professionals in Richmond, VA
Are you considering EMDR trauma therapy in Richmond, VA, but you've you been to talk therapy before and felt it was a waste of time? EMDR is unlike any therapy you've encountered before. We have seen firsthand that in as little as one session, a year's worth of regular talk therapy progress can be made. At Seeking Depth to Recovery, we are licensed therapists (LCSW, LHMP, LCAT, CLC) trained in EMDR and we work with various diagnoses and concerns. These include singular incident trauma, complex trauma (multiple traumatic events that have happened), early childhood trauma and neglect (including preverbal incidents), and even anticipatory events (preparing for a job interview or stressful event). Read on to learn more about how EMDR may be able to help, or schedule your first appointment with us to get started.
What Is EMDR? Where Did It Come From?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a unique trauma resolution therapy that can achieve the same results of one year's worth of CBT in 1 session. EMDR can be facilitated in individual, family, and group therapy. EMDR integrates powerfully with Internal Family Systems and Somatic Therapies. EMDR is clinically effective with PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, and depression. It was founded by Dr. Francine Shapiro, through a complete chance encounter. One day, she was walking in a park while she pondered over something upsetting. As her eyes darted between the trees, she noticed that her thoughts were no longer distressful.
From there, she worked with scores of volunteers to test the efficacy of rapid eye movements in de-sensitizing trauma. To their delight, not only did they find that eye movements successfully neutralized distress, but the movements also reprocessed events so that they were stored in the brain with positive beliefs about the self and the world instead of negative or scary ones.
Nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, aggression, images, and other disturbing sensory information proved to be alleviated with this method.Subsequent research has now shown that eye movements are only one form of bilateral stimulation. Touch and sound can also be used to stimulate each hemisphere of the brain, thereby jump-starting the adaptive processing that takes place during EMDR sessions. This variety of other stimuli has expanded the applications of EMDR therapy to reach more diverse populations with different needs.
My specialty areas of treatment include complex trauma, intergenerational trauma, substance use disorders, eating disorders, adult attachment disorders, and neurodivergence. Ready to book your first appointment?
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR works by using bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements) to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories, allowing them to move from being stored as raw, emotional experiences in the amygdala to becoming integrated, contextual memories in the prefrontal cortex.
Let's break that down. EMDR works directly with memories, whether conscious or not, that are trapped in the amygdala. The amygdala is the unconscious part of our brain that remembers fear and terror, and employs our autonomic nervous system to engage in the fight, flight, freeze response. The amygdala is fully formed in utero and is constantly assessing our environment for threats, which could range from seeing an assailant with a weapon, or feeling excluded from a group.
Because there is no language in the amygdala, people are unaware of how their present-day symptoms are rooted in this part of the brain. This usually takes the form of denying the existence of an overwhelming or traumatic experience, minimizing the impact of such an experience, or justifying why it was okay that whatever happened happened. Language and cognitive processing are unable to reach this part of the brain; instead, we work with physical sensations in the body.
With the use of bilateral stimulation, memories stuck in the amygdala jolt loose and work their way upward toward the hippocampus. The hippocampus provides context and a time stamp. Take for instance the veteran who ducks for cover during Fourth of July fireworks. Their amygdala has held onto the sound of a soul-piercing boom and has associated it with gunfire. Despite knowing in their consciousness that they're no longer in combat, the survival part of the brain never got the memo. Should this information be processed by the hippocampus, then the whole brain will feel safe with what once was a threatening sound.
This process also holds true in cases of subtle experiences of overwhelm, such as letting go of resentments, overcoming people-pleasing, or eliminating intrusive thoughts at bedtime.As the bilateral stimulation continues, the once distressing body memory will become adaptively stored in the prefrontal cortex. This part of our brain is responsible for conscious thought processes, perspective taking, future orientation, sound decision making, emotional regulation, and analysis.
EMDR overrides the impulse of the prefrontal cortex to deny, minimize, or justify an imbalance in the nervous system and facilitates integration between the unconscious and the conscious.In this method, we are operating counter to traditional cognitive therapy approaches, which attempt to use the prefrontal cortex to reconcile what's stored in the amygdala. Instead, the dissociative barrier that exists between these parts of our brains is bypassed by utilizing our natural "bottom-up" processing mechanisms.Think of a time where you were embarrassed by something to the point it made your whole body have a physical reaction.
EMDR desensitizes, meaning the physical reaction would neutralize so that when you think about that embarrassing moment, you no longer experience the uncomfortable physical sensation. It also reprocesses. If you previously thought about yourself "I am shameful" when imagining that moment, after an EMDR session you would believe something more positive, such as, "I am okay the way I am." These affirmations don't feel coerced; instead, they feel true to 100% of the self. EMDR can accomplish in one session what years of traditional talk therapy aims to achieve.
I have advanced EMDR training in dissociation, attachment and preverbal trauma, group therapy reprocessing, couples and marital EMDR, and Internal Family Systems.
Treatment Description: The Eight Phases of EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy follows a structured approach consisting of eight phases, designed to systematically address traumatic memories and facilitate healing:
History Taking and Treatment Planning: The EMDR therapist gathers information about the client's past experiences, current symptoms, and treatment goals to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
Preparation: The therapist establishes a safe environment and teaches the client self-soothing techniques to manage emotional distress that may arise during processing.
Assessment: The client identifies a specific memory to target, focusing on the visual image, negative belief, and associated physical sensations.
Desensitization: During this phase, the therapist guides the client through sets of bilateral stimulation (often lateral eye movements) while the client focuses attention on the traumatic memory. The client reports changes in thoughts, feelings, and body sensations after each set.
Installation: Once distress levels decrease, the therapist helps the client strengthen the connection to a positive belief that replaces the original negative belief.
Body Scan: The client pays attention to any residual physical sensations in the body while thinking of the original memory and positive belief. Additional bilateral stimulation may address remaining tension.
Closure: Each session ends with stabilization techniques to ensure the client feels grounded before leaving. This phase is crucial for maintaining emotional stability between sessions.
Reevaluation: At the beginning of subsequent sessions, the therapist checks how well previous processing has maintained and identifies any new areas that need attention. A typical EMDR treatment plan may include 6-12 90-minute sessions, though single-trauma victims might experience significant improvement in as few as 3 sessions. The length of treatment depends on the complexity and number of traumatic experiences being addressed. You and your therapist may also decide to use a multi-faceted strategy that includes other modalities of treatment as well. Just like all treatment plans, there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
What Conditions Can EMDR Help Treat?
Research supports the use of EMDR as an effective treatment for a wide range of conditions:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): EMDR was initially developed for and is most extensively validated in the treatment of PTSD. Both the American Psychiatric Association and the World Health Organization recognize EMDR as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense have included EMDR in their clinical practice guidelines for PTSD treatment.
Anxiety Disorders: EMDR has shown positive effects in treating various anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, phobias, and generalized anxiety disorder.
Depression: Clinical trials have demonstrated EMDR's efficacy in addressing depressive symptoms, particularly when depression co-occurs with traumatic experiences.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders: Some studies suggest EMDR may help reduce symptoms of OCD by processing underlying traumatic memories.
Personality Disorders: EMDR can address the traumatic foundations of certain personality disorders, particularly when combined with other therapeutic approaches.Substance Use Disorders: EMDR has been integrated into addiction treatment programs to address the traumatic experiences that often underlie substance use.
Low Self-Esteem: By reprocessing negative past events that contributed to poor self-image, EMDR helps clients develop healthier self-perception.
Chronic Pain: EMDR can help process traumatic memories associated with pain onset or maintenance, potentially reducing pain intensity and improving quality of life.
EMDR therapy has also shown promise in addressing grief, performance anxiety, dissociative disorders, and childhood trauma and abuse. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced adverse life experiences like physical or sexual abuse, natural disasters, witnessing violence, traumatic loss, and even preverbal traumas that occurred too early in life to be verbally recalled.
Is EMDR Controversial?
Despite its widespread acceptance by organizations like the American Psychological Association, the World Health Organization, and the National Institute of Mental Health, EMDR therapy has faced some controversy within the mental health community. These include mechanism debates, empirical support variations, comparison with other approaches, and lack of appropriate qualifications and trainings. However, in both our Richmond and Henrico offices, we've seen incredible and inspiring results from this treatment.
Who Is A Good Fit For EMDR?
While EMDR can benefit many people (maybe even most people), we've seen that it can be particularly helpful for:
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Single-trauma victims who can identify a specific disturbing event to targetIndividuals who struggle with talk therapy or find it difficult to verbalize traumatic experiences
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People whose traumatic memories include strong sensory components (images, sounds, physical sensations)
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Those who have not responded well to cognitive-behavioral therapy alone
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Individuals who experience flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories
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People looking for potentially faster resolution of trauma symptoms than traditional therapy might offer
If you recognize yourself in any of these descriptions, EMDR might be the breakthrough approach you've been looking for. At Seeking Depth to Recovery, our clients have reported transformative results even when previous therapeutic approaches have fallen short, making it worth considering as part of your healing journey.
Who Supports EMDR As A Therapy?
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International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies – 2009 assigned "EMDR as an evidenced-based level A treatment for PTSD in adults”
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The Department of Veterans Affairs and Defense – 2010SAMHSA – 2011
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National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (UK) – 2005 advised "EMDR therapy for treating trauma”
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The Dutch National Steering Committee Guidelines Mental Health and Care – 2003
Considering EMDR in Richmond, VA or Henrico County?
Our office at Seeking Depth to Recovery is proud to be home to a handful of experts in using EMDR in trauma recovery therapy. Adrienne Loker, LCSW, has advanced training in EMDR for dissociation and has developed her own somatic-focused EMDR protocol that prioritizes internal sense of safety by ensuring that we remain dominant in the Social Engagement Nervous System. We also specialize in EMDR for trauma, LGBTQIA+ matters, and non-traditional relationships. If you're considering EMDR therapy in the Richmond area, please don't hesitate to reach out.
More EMDR Resources:
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How Effective Is SE For Treating Trauma And PTSD?Research has found SE to be very effective in treating trauma survivors. According to the European Journal of Psychotraumatology, Somatic Experiencing can help alleviate both mental and physical symptoms of trauma.
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Do You Accept Insurance For SE Therapy?Insurance does not cover the cost of a therapy intensive. However, many do provide out-of-network coverage. You will need to call the number Member Services number on the back of your insurance card to confirm your benefits. Our approach to trauma treatment is more effective than traditional therapy and therefore require fewer sessions. Contact us for more information about the right treatment plan for your unique needs.
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How Does SE Differ From Other Somatic Therapies?While both SE and other somatic therapies focus on the mind-body connection, SE specifically targets the body's physiological responses to trauma, aiming to complete interrupted survival responses and release stored energy. Other somatic therapies, like Somatic Inquiry or Somatic Movement Therapy might incorporate different techniques or philosophies but share the common goal of integrating bodily awareness into the healing process.
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What Can I Expect During A Somatic Experiencing Session?During an SE session, the therapist will guide you to focus on your body's sensations, helping you become aware of areas where trauma may be stored. This process involves observing physical sensations, emotions, and movements to facilitate the release of pent-up energy associated with traumatic experiences.
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How Many Sessions Are Typically Required For SE Treatment?The number of sessions varies depending on individual circumstances, the nature of the trauma, and personal healing goals. Some individuals may experience relief after a few sessions, while others might benefit from longer-term therapy. Reach out to us to discuss your specific needs and goals.
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Do You Accept Insurance?Insurance does not cover the cost of a therapy intensive. However, many do provide out-of-network coverage. You will need to call the number Member Services number on the back of your insurance card to confirm your benefits. Our approach to trauma treatment is more effective than traditional therapy and therefore require fewer sessions. Contact us for more information about the right treatment plan for your unique needs.
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What Should I Expect During A Therapy Session?Trauma therapy is about safety first. All trauma survivors know how to be in trauma without the proper resources. Trauma therapy is about developing the resources we needed that we didn’t have when we endured such traumatic experiences. Primarily, this includes a visceral belief that that part of your life is over, a witness to hold with you the scary emotions associated with what you’ve been through, and an internalization of how it feels to be seen so that you can begin to “see” the wounded parts of you. Each trauma therapist brings their own individual style and training into the space with you, while you bring your own unique nervous system. You can except to collaborate with your therapist throughout your relationship with us – you’re the Captain and we’re Second in Command. You can also check out our Video Resources to sample how it might be to work with us.
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What Types Of Trauma Can Be Addressed In Therapy?Trauma therapy refers to creating an integrated experience between what the body remembers and what the mind remembers. Whatever your trauma history is, we will support you in establishing a cohesive narrative between these two types of memories. We are highly skilled in the treatment of preverbal and nonverbal traumas – such as attachment trauma and other childhood traumas. We also treat relational trauma, sexual trauma, and shock trauma – such as natural disasters, accidents, and assaults. Trauma therapy is also highly effective for anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, as the focus is on bringing regulation to the nervous system.
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Are There Specialized Trauma Therapists In Richmond, VA?Yes, Richmond has several specialized trauma therapists. Adrienne Loker, LCSW, EMDR + SE Therapist is a national trauma recovery expert who has developed her own Somatically-Centered EMDR protocol to increase the efficacy and efficiency of trauma treatment. She manages a team of trauma specialists who are trained in a variety of cutting edge trauma treatments, including EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems.
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How Do I Know If I Need Trauma Therapy?Don’t wait for a crisis to begin trauma therapy. The best time to start trauma therapy is before things get out of hand. If you have the experience of feeling like you’re too much, not enough, worthless, innately broken, or invisible, you may be experiencing the echoes of nonverbal trauma. Additional symptoms that might mean it’s time for trauma therapy include unmanageable anxiety, intrusive thoughts, feeling like your body doesn’t belong to you, difficulty relating to others, feelings of anhedonia or apathy, or painful perfectionism.
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Do You Accept Insurance For IFS Therapy?We do not participate with any Richmond insurance companies for the coverage of treatment, but some providers cover out-of-network care. However, our treatment plans are designed to be more effective than traditional therapy and therefore require fewer sessions. Contact us for more information about the right treatment plan for your unique needs.
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How do I find an IFS therapist in Richmond, VA?It's important to make sure that your therapist is qualified to provide treatment using IFS. Many licensed therapists have additional training that prepares them to guide clients through an IFS approach. At Seeking Depth to Recovery, we can help match you with the right therapist for you.
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How Many IFS Sessions Are Typically Needed?The number of sessions varies depending on individual needs and the complexity of the issues being addressed. It's best to discuss this with your therapist to develop a personalized treatment plan.
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How Effective Is IFS For Treating Trauma, PTSD, And Other Mental Health Issues?IFS is frequently used as an evidence-based psychotherapy, helping people heal by accessing and healing their protective and wounded inner parts.It has been effective in treating conditions like PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
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Can IFS Therapy Be Integrated With Other Therapeutic Approaches?Yes, IFS therapy has been known to work well alongside other modalities like EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Polyvagal-Informed Therapy, and CBT.
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How Effective Is EMDR For Treating PTSD And Trauma?EMDR therapy is recognized as an effective treatment for trauma and is recommended worldwide in the practice guidelines of both domestic and international organizations. Here at Seeking Depth, we've seen first-hand how effective and lasting the results can be for those overcoming symptoms of trauma.
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How Many EMDR Sessions Are Typically Needed?The number of sessions varies depending on the individual and the complexity of the trauma. For single incident traumas, usually 8-12 sessions of 90 minutes each are required. For more complex trauma, the treatment is more complex and takes longer, usually about 12-18 months. Your therapist will talk with you more about your individual needs on an ongoing basis.
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How Should I Prepare For An Intensive EMDR Session?To prepare for an intensive EMDR session, dress comfortably, plan to have a calm and replenishing rest of the day, and consider what support you might need afterward.
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Do You Accept Insurance For EMDR Therapy?We do not participate with any Richmond insurance companies for the coverage of treatment, but some providers cover out-of-network care. However, our treatment plans are designed to be more effective than traditional therapy and therefore require fewer sessions. In fact, a single EMDR session can be as effective as an entire year of CBT.
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Are Seeking Depth Therapists Qualified EMDR Practitioners?Yes, we have a number of EMDR certified therapists working in Richmond, VA.
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Can EMDR therapy be integrated with other therapeutic approaches?Yes, EMDR can work powerfully alongside other therapeutic approaches such as IFS, CBT, Somatic Experiencing, and more. Your therapist can help you decide on the right path for your healing.
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Is somatic therapy better than EMDR?There is no "better" or "worse" in therapy. Rather, we look at what's most effective, which is dependent on the individual nervous system that we're working with. All of our clinicians have training in somatic-based methods, which is then integrated into their preferred modality. Because EMDR is a popular buzz word, we receive a lot of inquiries for this modality. However, recipients of EMDR can sometimes feel that it is too much too fast. Our providers often pump the brakes to engage in more somatic-based or parts-work oriented approaches to prepare the nervous system for EMDR reprocessing. This is done so that the experience is geared toward healing and not harm. We utilize multiple somatic therapies within our practice, which are heavily informed by Polyvagal Theory. If you haven't done so already, we recommend reading about it here: https://www.seekingdepthtorecovery.com/polyvagal-theory-trauma-therapy
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Why do FAQs matter?FAQs are a great way to help site visitors find quick answers to common questions about your business and create a better navigation experience.
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Do you accept insurance?We provide clients superbills to submit to their insurances for reimbursement. Insurance does not cover the cost of coaching, substance use interventions, or drug monitoring. We recommend calling your insurance carrier to get a detailed answer on what they will cover with an out-of-network provider.
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Can you tell me more about EMDR?Absolutely. EMDR is a powerful trauma reprocessing tool that works wonders with singular event trauma, such as a car accident or an attack. With relational and complex trauma, it works best when integrated with other modalities, such as somatic-based therapies (like Somatic Experiencing) or ego-state therapies (like Internal Family Systems). You can read more about the mechanics of EMDR here: https://www.seekingdepthtorecovery.com/emdr-trauma-therapy-richmond-va
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Do you all have a waitlist?Our caseloads ebb and flow, and we do our best to keep from having a long waitlist. Currently, we do have availability for adolescent and adult clients. Please note, Adrienne Loker, LCSW is not accepting new clients for therapy, but is available to facilitate substance use interventions. You will find that all of our practitioners possess advanced training and skillsets to help you meet your goals.
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Do you provide couples or family therapy?Yes, we provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We work with ages 6 years old throughout the lifespan.
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