EMDR Therapy for Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) & Relational Trauma Recovery
EMDR engages neurobiological mechanisms of change, reducing residual distress and strengthening emotional coherence
EMDR works by facilitating the brain’s natural reprocessing mechanisms, allowing distressing memories, emotional patterns, and learned triggers to be integrated rather than reactivated. The therapeutic aim is to reduce the emotional intensity of these memories - often down to neutral levels - and to consolidate alternative, adaptive responses of your choosing. Through this reprocessing, the nervous system updates its internal representations so past experiences no longer exert the same physiological or cognitive pull. Whether the underlying issue is anxiety, panic, complex trauma, or long-standing stress responses, EMDR enables the system to move out of reactive loops and toward more regulated, adaptive patterns of functioning.
EMDR as a Pathway to Adaptive Change
EMDR Treatment
Treatment Grounded in Research
At A.J.B. Counseling & Psychotherapy, our EMDR treatment for trauma and complex anxiety is anchored in rigorous scientific research. We draw on findings published in leading journals such as the Journal of Traumatic Stress and the European Journal of Psychotraumatology, where EMDR has consistently demonstrated strong efficacy for post-traumatic stress and related conditions.
Team Collaboration
EMDR in our practice is provided by clinicians with advanced, specialized training who deliver the method with precision, clinical rigor, and careful individualization. Each course of treatment is approached with a research-informed framework that maintains fidelity to the model while adapting to the client’s specific presentation and regulatory needs.
Innovation
We view EMDR not as a static protocol but as a dynamic, evolving method. By integrating EMDR with advanced approaches such as attachment-informed modifications and mindfulness-based techniques, we extend its impact beyond trauma processing. This blend allows us to address the complexities of trauma, relational wounds, and anxiety with greater precision and depth.
Rapid and Lasting Improvement
Our treatment approach is supported by clinical trials showing that EMDR produces substantial reductions in PTSD symptoms within a relatively short timeframe. In a randomized clinical trial, EMDR patients sustained a 62% reduction in PTSD symptoms six months after treatment, compared with 48% for fluoxetine and 20% for placebo. Other studies have shown that EMDR can achieve improvement in fewer sessions than CBT, with clients reaching meaningful relief in about 6 sessions versus nearly 11. These findings underscore what we see in practice: EMDR delivers not only rapid improvement, but also durable change that endures long after treatment ends.
Figure 1 shows PTSD symptom reduction six months after treatment. EMDR maintained a 62% reduction, compared to 48% for fluoxetine and 20% for placebo. Unlike medication, EMDR’s benefits lasted beyond the treatment period.
Reference:
van der Kolk, B. A., Spinazzola, J., Blaustein, M. E., Hopper, J. W., Hopper, E. K., Korn, D. L., & Simpson, W. B. (2007). A randomized clinical trial of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), fluoxetine, and pill placebo in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder: Treatment effects and long-term maintenance. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 68(1), 37–46. https://doi.org/10.4088/jcp.v68n0105
Figure 2 shows that EMDR delivers greater efficiency compared with CBT. Using average session data, EMDR achieved significant improvement in about 6 sessions, while CBT required nearly 11. When converted into an efficiency score, EMDR demonstrated roughly 1.7 times greater efficiency, meaning clients reached relief in less time and with less effort.
Reference:
Marcus, S. V., Marquis, P., & Sakai, C. (1997). Controlled study of treatment of PTSD using EMDR in an HMO setting. Psychotherapy, 34(3), 307–315.
Shapiro, F. (2014). The role of EMDR therapy in medicine. The Permanente Journal, 18(1), 71–77.
Testimonials
“The friendliest, most caring provider I've met with after having a few poor experiences with past therapist. Chris really cared about what I had to say and asked really good questions that always made sessions engaging.”
“Adam is above all a wonderful person, who truly cares about improving the life of his patients. I am so glad I found Adam: he is a rare gem, an incredibly smart and approachable person. If you are lucky enough to work with him, I am certain you'll see rapid improvements, whatever your goals may be. I highly recommend Adam's practice.”
“Nathaniel has a gift for crisis intervention. In one of my darkest moments, he provided immediate support and tools to stabilize my emotions. His approach is compassionate yet effective. I'm so grateful!”
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Take the First Step Toward Feeling Better
EMDR has helped millions of people break free from anxiety, panic attacks, and unresolved emotional distress.