EMDR Therapy in Ann Arbor

What Is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy approach designed to help the brain process distressing experiences more effectively.

Certified EMDR Therapy Available — EMDR services are provided by clinicians trained in trauma-informed, evidence-based treatment, including Dr. Michele Wolf, a Certified EMDR Therapist. Ask us whether EMDR may be appropriate for your concerns.

Developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro, EMDR has become one of the most widely researched and effective treatments for trauma-related concerns.

Many people find that certain memories continue to trigger intense emotional reactions long after an event has ended. EMDR helps the brain reprocess those experiences so they become less overwhelming and disruptive.

How Does EMDR Work?

When a distressing event occurs, the brain may not fully process the experience.

As a result, memories can remain stored in a way that continues to trigger emotional distress, physical reactions, and negative beliefs.

During EMDR therapy, clients briefly focus on specific memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation, often through guided eye movements.

This process supports the brain's natural ability to process and integrate information.

What Can EMDR Help Treat?

EMDR is commonly used for:

• Trauma
• PTSD
• Anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Distressing memories
• Performance anxiety
• Grief and loss
• Relationship trauma
• Medical trauma

Many clients also use EMDR to address negative beliefs such as:

• “I'm not good enough.”
• “I'm not safe.”
• “I can't trust anyone.”
• “Something is wrong with me.”

What Happens During Treatment?

EMDR therapy does not begin with processing traumatic memories.

The first phase focuses on:

• Building trust
• Developing coping skills
• Strengthening emotional regulation
• Creating a sense of safety

Only after adequate preparation does memory processing begin.

Treatment proceeds at a pace that feels manageable and collaborative.

Is EMDR Effective?

EMDR is recognized by organizations including:

• American Psychological Association (APA)
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Research has consistently demonstrated EMDR's effectiveness for trauma-related concerns.

Many clients report:

• Reduced emotional intensity
• Improved confidence
• Better sleep
• Fewer triggers
• Increased emotional resilience

What Does EMDR Feel Like?

Every person's experience with EMDR is unique. During treatment, clients remain awake, aware, and in control throughout the entire session. Many describe the experience as allowing difficult memories to become less vivid, less emotionally distressing, and easier to recall without feeling overwhelmed.

Although processing difficult experiences can sometimes bring up strong emotions, therapy moves at a pace that feels safe and manageable. Your therapist will help you develop grounding and coping skills before beginning trauma processing and will guide you through each step of the process.

Watch Dr. Wolf Provide an EMDR Session

Seeing EMDR in action can help demystify the therapy process and provide a better understanding of what to expect during treatment.

Watch Dr. Michele Wolf demonstrate an EMDR session and explain how this evidence-based approach helps individuals process traumatic memories, reduce emotional distress, and move toward lasting healing.

Our demonstration video is coming soon.

Is EMDR Right for You?

EMDR is not the right fit for every situation, but it can be a powerful treatment option for individuals seeking relief from the lasting effects of difficult experiences.

Our clinicians can help determine whether EMDR aligns with your goals and treatment needs.