EMDR Therapy
An evidence-based therapy that helps the brain heal from difficult memories.
Some memories need more than talking through
EMDR, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, is an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain process and heal from distressing or traumatic memories. Rather than reliving the event in detail, EMDR helps those memories lose their emotional grip, so they no longer hijack the present.
At North Jersey Health & Wellness, EMDR is provided by trained clinicians as part of a supportive, paced plan, so healing happens in a way that feels safe.
What EMDR can help with
EMDR is best known for trauma, but it helps with more than that:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Single-event trauma, like an accident or assault
- Ongoing or childhood trauma
- Anxiety and panic tied to specific memories
- Grief and loss
- Distressing memories that keep intruding
- Phobias and triggers
- Feeling stuck despite other therapy
EMDR often works alongside talk therapy and, when needed, medication, and we help you find the right combination.
How EMDR works
EMDR follows a structured, well-researched process:
- Your clinician helps you build coping tools first, so you feel grounded
- You briefly focus on a difficult memory while following guided eye movements or taps
- This bilateral stimulation helps the brain reprocess the memory
- The memory gradually loses its intensity and emotional charge
- You are supported and paced throughout, never pushed faster than feels safe
EMDR at North Jersey Health & Wellness
We provide EMDR carefully and in context:
- An evaluation to confirm EMDR is a good fit and you are ready
- Sessions with a trained EMDR clinician, at a pace that feels safe
- Coordination with your therapy and PTSD care
- Support for co-occurring anxiety or depression
- A plan built around your comfort and your goals
EMDR is one piece of your care here, coordinated with your therapy and medication so trauma healing happens in a supported, connected way.
What getting started looks like
- Book your first visit. One call or a few clicks, and we will get you on the schedule.
- Talk it through with a provider. An honest, careful evaluation, at your pace.
- Match to the right care. We shape a plan to what you actually need, then fine-tune it.
- Stay supported the whole way. Regular check-ins and adjustments until you feel like yourself.
EMDR therapy across North Jersey
We provide EMDR in person at our New Jersey locations and, when appropriate, by secure telehealth:
Not sure which office is closest, or whether telehealth is right for you? Call us at (201) 588-3491 and we will help you figure it out.
Why patients choose NJHW for EMDR
- Physician-led care under Dr. Derek Berberian, MD, board-certified in psychiatry and neurology
- Medication and therapy coordinated under one roof
- In-person visits, secure telehealth, and house calls
- In-network with most major insurance plans
- Care that starts by listening, not by reaching for a prescription pad
EMDR therapy: common questions
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, is an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they lose their emotional intensity. It is widely used for trauma and PTSD and is recommended by major health organizations.
How does EMDR work?
During EMDR, you briefly focus on a difficult memory while following guided eye movements or taps. This bilateral stimulation helps your brain reprocess the memory, so it becomes less overwhelming. Your clinician builds coping tools first and paces the work to keep you safe.
What is EMDR used for?
EMDR is best known for treating PTSD and trauma, but it also helps with anxiety, panic tied to specific memories, grief, phobias, and distressing intrusive memories. It is often used when other approaches have not fully helped.
Is EMDR safe, and does it hurt to do?
EMDR is safe when provided by a trained clinician. You do not relive the trauma in detail, and you are never pushed faster than feels comfortable. Building coping skills first is part of the process, so you stay grounded.
How many EMDR sessions will I need?
It varies with the person and the memories being processed. Some people need a handful of sessions, others more. Your clinician will discuss what to expect based on your situation.
Does insurance cover EMDR therapy?
Most major insurance plans cover EMDR as part of psychotherapy. North Jersey Health & Wellness accepts most major plans. If you are unsure about your coverage, call (201) 588-3491.
Those memories do not have to run the show
EMDR can help difficult memories finally settle. Reach out, and we will take it from there.