Woman holding a book in front of her face, symbolizing emotional processing and healing.

If you’re considering Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy but feel uncertain about how intense it might be, you’re not alone. It’s a common question for those thinking about starting trauma-focused therapy. Many people worry that reliving painful memories might be overwhelming or too intense. This blog will help you understand how EMDR works,

A heart-shaped cookie broken into pieces, symbolizing the impact of betrayal and the challenge of rebuilding trust.

Understanding the Mistrust/Abuse Schema

The ability to trust shapes how we connect, love, and feel safe in the world. But for some, trust doesn’t come easily. Instead, there’s a deep fear that others will let them down, take advantage, or cause harm. Even when kindness is shown, doubts creep in: What’s their real motive? When will they hurt me?

Minimalist squiggle drawing of a brain on a beige aesthetic background, symbolizing trauma processing and EMDR therapy.

As a Clinical Psychologist, I often work with clients who have experienced trauma, and one of the most effective therapy approach I use is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).  Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR is a structured therapy that helps people process and heal from distressing memories. But how