EMDR Therapy in New York City

Experiencing trauma can feel like carrying a heavy weight that deeply affects both your physical and emotional health. It can disrupt your everyday activities, making it challenging to maintain focus at work, nurture relationships, and enjoy a sense of inner peace. When trauma remains unaddressed, it can lead to profound emotional distress that permeates various aspects of life. If you reside in New York City and are searching for effective methods to confront and heal from trauma, consider online EMDR Therapy NYC offered at Psyconnections. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a well-researched therapeutic approach designed to help individuals process and move past traumatic experiences.

At Psyconnection, you will have the opportunity to explore the intricacies of EMDR therapy, including its underlying mechanisms, the scientific principles that support its effectiveness, and the specific benefits it can offer. EMDR therapy has been shown to alleviate symptoms associated with a range of conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and phobias. This therapy is beneficial for anyone who has experienced trauma, whether recent or from the distant past. Young adults, veterans, survivors of abuse, and those coping with loss are just a few examples of individuals who may find EMDR particularly helpful.

Choosing a therapist in New York City adds another layer to your healing journey. The city is home to a plethora of licensed professionals who specialize in trauma-informed care, ensuring you receive personalized support tailored to your unique experiences. Embracing this opportunity for healing can lead you toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

What is EMDR Therapy? 

EMDR therapy, developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, is a unique form of psychotherapy designed to help individuals heal from emotional distress caused by trauma. This method uses bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movements, sounds, or taps, to aid the brain in processing traumatic memories more effectively. Unlike traditional talk therapy that focuses on discussion, EMDR helps clients reduce the emotional charge of distressing memories, effectively allowing the brain to close the “wound” of trauma.

Learn more about EMDR at American Psychological Association PTSD resources. 

Who needs EMDR Therapy NYC?

EMDR can help people with a wide range of mental health conditions. Adolescents, teenagers and adults of all ages can benefit from this treatment. Some healthcare providers also specialize in EMDR for children.

How EMDR Therapy Works: The Eight-Phase Process

EMDR therapy follows a structured eight-phase protocol that ensures clients are fully supported at every step. 

• Image or mental picture: Associated with the memory.
• Negative belief: You hold about yourself (e.g., “I am powerless”).
• Desired positive belief: (e.g., “I am strong and in control”).
• Emotions and physical sensations: Connected to the memory.

The Science Behind EMDR 

Why does EMDR work? The prevailing theory is that trauma memories are stored in the brain’s emotional memory network, which doesn’t integrate with rational processing. That’s why trauma can feel like it’s happening “in the present” even years later. 

Bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or sounds) is thought to activate both hemispheres of the brain, allowing the memory to be reprocessed and integrated. Research shows EMDR can reduce activity in the amygdala (the brain’s fear centre) and increase connections in areas responsible for rational thinking. 

Why is EMDR Therapy Used?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy doesn’t require discussing the distressing details of a traumatic experience. Instead, it focuses on altering the emotions, thoughts, or behaviors linked to that trauma, allowing your brain to restart its natural healing process.

While the terms “mind” and “brain” are often used interchangeably, they refer to different concepts. The brain is a physical organ, while the mind encompasses the thoughts, memories, beliefs, and experiences that shape who you are. The functioning of your mind is deeply connected to the structure of your brain, which consists of networks of brain cells in various regions, especially those related to memory and sensory processing. This interconnectedness allows your brain to quickly link sensory experiences (like sights, sounds, smells, and textures) to memories.

Adaptive Information Processing

EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, a theory about how memories are stored in the brain. Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro, who also created EMDR, this theory distinguishes between how the brain handles regular and traumatic memories.

Under normal circumstances, the brain stores memories efficiently and links them to other related memories. However, during traumatic events, this process doesn’t function properly, causing a disconnect between sensory experiences (what you see, feel, hear) and how your brain stores those experiences. As a result, the brain can “shut down” and fail to process traumatic memories correctly.

Trauma is like an unhealed wound in the brain. Because the brain doesn’t fully process these experiences, it fails to signal that the danger is over. Over time, newer experiences may connect with past trauma, reinforcing negative emotions and reactions. This disrupts the natural network of sensory and memory connections and acts like an injury to the mind. Just like physical pain signals from an injury, trauma can heighten sensitivity to certain sensory triggers, intensifying feelings of discomfort.

This problem can affect both memories you consciously remember and those you’ve suppressed. Just as you learn not to touch a hot stove because it causes pain, your mind suppresses painful memories to protect you. But this suppression isn’t flawless, and the unresolved “injury” can continue to create negative emotional responses, symptoms, and behaviors.

Triggers

Certain sights, sounds, or smells related to past trauma can “trigger” these improperly stored memories. Unlike other types of memories, trauma-related memories can provoke overwhelming emotions such as fear, anxiety, anger, or panic.

For instance, people with PTSD may experience flashbacks, where the memory resurfaces in a distorted, uncontrolled way, making them feel as if they are reliving the traumatic event. The past can feel as though it is happening in the present moment.

Reprocessing and Repair

During EMDR, you revisit traumatic memories in a controlled way. By combining eye movements with guided instructions, you reprocess these memories, which helps “repair” the mental injury caused by the trauma. As a result, recalling the traumatic event won’t feel like reliving it. The associated emotions will become more manageable and less overwhelming.

Sense Activation During Phase 4 of EMDR

In the early stages of EMDR therapy, stimulating a single sense on both sides of the body typically involved the sense of vision. Healthcare providers would hold up a hand with two fingers extended and have you follow the tip of their finger from side to side, using only your eyes.

More recent approaches to EMDR include a variety of sensory methods. For example, specialized light devices are now used, which project a moving light that you follow with your eyes, replacing the need for the healthcare provider’s hand. Additionally, some methods use sound, with speakers placed on either side of the body playing alternating tones.

In other instances, tactile sensations may be incorporated. If you’re comfortable with it, your healthcare provider might tap on your hands, arms, or thighs to stimulate your sense of touch on both sides of your body. Alternatively, they may use a device that pulses in your hands to create this sensory activation. This multisensory approach helps engage both sides of the brain for more ef

What Conditions and Problems does EMDR Treat?

This therapy helps reprocess distressing memories and replace negative beliefs with positive perspectives. These services are especially helpful for individuals coping with:

• • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Emotional or physical neglect
  • Grief and loss-related trauma
  • Anxiety and panic resulting from past experiences
  • Depression
  • Grief and loss
  • Workplace burnout
  • Low self-esteem
  • Childhood or adult abuse

Check Trauma-Informed Care and EMDR Therapy for a better understanding.

Benefits of EMDR Therapy

One of the most highly endorsed therapies for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). This innovative approach specifically targets the emotional distress caused by traumatic memories, making it an effective option for those suffering from PTSD.

In addition to its efficacy for PTSD, EMDR is beneficial for individuals grappling with anxiety and depression that stem from previous traumatic experiences. By addressing the root causes of these emotional challenges, EMDR helps individuals process and understand their feelings, leading to a more profound sense of relief.

Moreover, EMDR contributes to improved emotional regulation. Through its structured methodology, individuals develop and refine their coping mechanisms, allowing them to handle daily life stressors more effectively and respond to emotions in a healthier manner.

Another significant advantage of EMDR is the speed at which many patients report progress. Numerous individuals experience noticeable improvements in their symptoms after just a handful of sessions, often much quicker than they would with traditional talk therapy methods. This makes EMDR a compelling option for those seeking efficient and effective treatment for their mental health concerns.

Long-term benefits include:

• Greater emotional resilience in stressful situations.
• Stronger self-esteem and healthier self-beliefs.
• Improved relationships, as old trauma no longer interferes with intimacy or trust.

Enhances performance, especially in careers that demand confidence (actors, lawyers, athletes, executives, very common in NYC)

What are the Risks or Complications of this Procedure?

EMDR has very low risks. The most common negative effects are unwanted thoughts or feelings between sessions. Your healthcare provider can help you understand what to expect and how to manage these reactions.

What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session

Starting therapy can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but understanding what to expect can help calm your nerves and make the journey feel much more manageable. Embrace this opportunity for growth and healing!

Typically, your first session will include: 

• Intake assessment: Collecting information regarding your challenges, goals, and experiences.
• Discussion of confidentiality: Know your rights as a client and your ethical obligations.
• Goal setting: Outlining the goals you’d like to accomplish through therapy.

Is EMDR Safe?

Yes. EMDR is considered safe and effective, supported by organizations like:

• American Psychological Association (APA)
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

Temporary side effects may include vivid dreams or emotional sensitivity after sessions, but these are signs of processing. 

How to Find the Right Therapist in NYC

• Check credentials: Look for licensed mental health professionals trained in trauma therapy.
• Ask about specializations: Some therapists focus specifically on combat PTSD, childhood trauma, or sexual assault recovery.
• Use trusted directories: Platforms like Psychology Today and local listings can help you find a professional.

When to call a Doctor?

While EMDR therapy is highly effective for many people, there are situations where it’s best to contact a doctor or emergency professional first before beginning treatment. 

• Suicidal thoughts or self-harm

If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide or urges to harm yourself, it’s critical to reach out for immediate medical support. Call 911 (in the US) or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for confidential 24/7 help. 

• Severe psychiatric symptoms

If you are having:

• Intense hallucinations
• Severe paranoia
• Delusions
• Extreme mood swings

It’s important to see a psychiatrist first for stabilization before starting EMDR.

• Medical emergencies 

If emotional trauma is paired with physical health crises such as fainting, chest pain, or uncontrolled panic that affects breathing, call your doctor or visit the emergency room. 

• Substance dependence

If you are heavily dependent on drugs or alcohol, medical detox or stabilization may be necessary before treatment can be effective. 

• Safety concerns

If you are currently in an unsafe environment, such as ongoing abuse, medical, and crisis support services should be your first step. EMDR can be very helpful once immediate safety is established. 

How a Doctor and Therapist Work Together

Many clients benefit from a combined approach:

• A doctor or psychiatrist may prescribe medication to stabilize severe symptoms.
• A therapist can then provide EMDR to address the root trauma.

This collaboration ensures that you receive both symptom management and long-term healing. 

Why PsyConnections Offers the Best EMDR Therapy in NYC

At PsyConnections, we understand that therapy is more than just conversation — it’s a partnership. Led by Dr. Erika Updegrove, our team offers:

• Flexible online sessions
• CBT, EMDR, Gottman, and holistic wellness
• Licensed, trauma-informed care
• Personalized care tailored to NYC’s unique pace of life

Meet Dr Erika Updegrove!

Dr. Erika Updegrove is a registered psychologist with years of experience working with clients throughout New York City. She is a licensed clinical psychologist who adheres to the highest professional standards established by organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA).

Dr. Updegrove provides a caring, competent, and culturally sensitive approach to therapy. She blends her clinical expertise with kindness, creating a safe and welcoming environment for individuals to discuss their challenges and work through them. Her collaborative method focuses on helping you attain lasting emotional well-being.

Dr. Updegrove’s therapeutic methods are based on research that shows what works for you and your specific emotional needs and goals. She is your partner in the healing process, giving you the help and resources you need to go through tough times and learn new things.

Frequently Asked Questions

Start Your Healing Journey Today

Your mental health is a priority, and we understand how challenging it can be to seek help. Rest assured, you’re not alone in this process. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing you with personalized support in a cozy and inviting environment right from the comfort of your home. Experience the care and understanding you deserve as we work together to enhance your well-being and foster positive change in your life.

Book your first session today with PsyConnections NYC and take the important step toward your recovery journey.