EMDR Therapy Los Angeles

By Susan Quinn Therapist and Life Coach in Los Angeles

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a powerful and effective approach for healing trauma and emotional pain. Created by Francine Shapiro in 1987, this therapy uses side-to-side stimulation to help the brain reprocess memories, allowing people to feel less overwhelmed by past experiences. EMDR therapy in Los Angeles has become a trusted method for those seeking recovery from trauma, anxiety, depression, and other issues.

EMDR (aka Reprocessing Therapy) in Los Angeles, CA

In Los Angeles, EMDR therapy has helped many people process difficult memories and regain control over their lives. EMDR involves "bilateral stimulation" (BLS), where eye movements, sounds, or light tapping alternate between the left and right sides of the body. This method engages both sides of the brain, promoting integration of emotion and thought, similar to the brain's natural processing during REM sleep. EMDR is often used to treat trauma-related issues but can also be helpful for anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and more.

What Happens in EMDR?

EMDR therapy follows an eight-phase process designed to guide you through healing in a structured, supportive way.

1. History-Taking and Treatment Planning

Susan will first explore your history, identify specific traumatic memories, and set goals for EMDR therapy. This step ensures the therapist understands your unique needs and tailors the sessions to you.

2. Preparation

Building a foundation of trust and safety is essential in EMDR therapy. During this phase, Susan will introduce you to coping techniques, so you feel grounded and safe throughout the process.

3. Assessment

Here, specific memories are chosen for reprocessing. The therapist will help you identify the negative beliefs, emotions, and physical sensations tied to these memories.

4. Desensitization

Using bilateral stimulation, EMDR begins to weaken the emotional charge tied to traumatic memories. This phase taps into the brain’s ability to naturally process memories, reducing the distress associated with the trauma.

5. Installation

During installation, positive beliefs are introduced to replace old negative thoughts. For example, a person might replace a belief like “I am powerless” with “I am in control of my life.”

6. Body Scan

Susan will guide you to notice any physical tension connected to the memory. This step helps ensure that the trauma is resolved both emotionally and physically.

7. Closure

Each EMDR session ends with grounding techniques, helping you leave feeling stable and secure.

8. Re-evaluation

Susan will review your progress to ensure that your therapeutic goals are being met and any lingering effects of trauma are resolved.

Have You Had a Bad Experience with EMDR Therapy?

Not all EMDR experiences are the same. Sometimes, a previous therapist may not have been the right fit, or they may not have had sufficient EMDR training. Successful EMDR therapy requires a safe environment and a skilled therapist who can guide you through the process without re-traumatizing you. If you've had a challenging EMDR experience, remember that this therapy requires a therapist who can properly "resource" you—meaning they help you feel safe, supported, and ready for each step of the journey.

If EMDR therapy doesn’t feel right for you at a certain time, other therapeutic options, like somatic therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can also offer significant relief from trauma.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing with Susan Quinn Therapist and Life Coach in Los Angeles

Susan specializes in EMDR therapy for those seeking a trauma-informed approach to healing. She provides various supportive therapies alongside EMDR, ensuring a comprehensive, well-rounded treatment.

Focused Individual Care

Each person has unique needs when it comes to healing from trauma. Susan provides personalized attention to help you work through your specific experiences. We work collaboratively to identify your goals and create a treatment plan tailored to your situation.

Trauma Treatment

EMDR is just one of the evidence-based therapies available to treat trauma. Susan also offer anxiety therapy, somatic therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. These approaches are integrated to create a safe space where you can explore, process, and heal from trauma in a way that works best for you.

FAQs About EMDR Therapy Los Angeles

What does EMDR stand for, and how does it work?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It uses bilateral stimulation—like guided eye movements or tapping—to activate both sides of the brain and help reprocess distressing memories. This approach reduces the emotional charge of those memories, allowing you to heal and move forward.

Is EMDR therapy only for people with PTSD?

While EMDR is highly effective for treating PTSD, it’s also helpful for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and complex trauma from various life events. EMDR’s flexibility makes it a versatile choice for healing emotional wounds.

Will I have to relive my trauma during EMDR?

No, you won’t have to relive every detail of your trauma. Instead, EMDR helps you reprocess the memory without going into overwhelming detail, making it a gentler approach for addressing difficult experiences.

Can EMDR therapy be done online?

Yes, Susan offers EMDR therapy online. With some adjustments to the bilateral stimulation process, EMDR can be effectively provided through virtual sessions, making it accessible for those with busy schedules or location constraints.

How long does EMDR therapy take?

EMDR therapy varies from person to person, depending on the complexity of the trauma and individual needs. Some people find significant relief within a few sessions, while others may take longer for more complex issues. Susan will work with you to set a pace that feels comfortable.

FAQs About Susan Quinn as an EMDR Therapist

Who is Susan Quinn, LMFT?

Susan Quinn is a Licensed Therapist and Life Coach based in Los Angeles, specializing in EMDR therapy and other trauma-focused treatments. With extensive training in EMDR, Susan is dedicated to helping clients process trauma in a supportive, compassionate environment.

How do I know if Susan Quinn is the right therapist for me?

Finding the right therapist is a personal choice. Susan offers a free consultation so you can discuss your needs and determine if her approach feels like a good fit. This introductory session helps establish a comfortable therapeutic relationship.

Does Susan Quinn provide other types of therapy besides EMDR?

Yes, in addition to EMDR, Susan offers cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and couples therapy among other approaches. She believes in a holistic approach to healing, tailored to each client’s specific experiences.

What should I expect in a session with Susan?

During an EMDR session with Susan, you’ll feel supported and guided. She uses a structured, step-by-step approach to help you feel safe as you explore and reprocess memories. Susan’s warm and empathetic style ensures that each client feels heard, respected, and valued.

If you’re interested in learning more about EMDR therapy in Los Angeles with Susan Quinn, LMFT, reach out today. Begin the journey toward healing and discover the benefits of a supportive therapeutic experience in overcoming trauma.