EMDR is particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced all different types of traumatic event, whether single incident or complex trauma, including sexual abuse, sexual assault, ongoing abuse or neglect, infidelity, accidents, or a natural disaster. This includes survivors of accidents, natural disasters, abuse, violence, and individuals grappling with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related conditions.

We often are asked "does EMDR therapy work for issues other than trauma?". While first developed for the treatment of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), subsequent research has shown EMDR to be an effective treatment for other issues including substance abuse, eating disorders, and the development of healthy relationships. In our practice, we specialize in serving diverse populations who may benefit from EMDR. This includes survivors of interpersonal trauma, veterans, first responders, and those navigating the aftermath of a traumatic experience. Our therapists are dedicated to providing trauma-informed care and tailoring EMDR to meet the unique needs and experiences of each individual we serve.

EMDR may not be appropriate for individuals who are currently experiencing severe psychiatric symptoms that require stabilization before engaging in trauma-focused work. This includes those with active psychosis, acute substance dependence, or untreated severe psychiatric disorders. Additionally, those who are unwilling or unable to engage in the processing of traumatic memories may not benefit from EMDR.

For individuals who fall into these categories, alternative treatments such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and supportive counseling may be more suitable options. These therapies can provide essential support and skills development to address immediate symptoms and prepare individuals for trauma-focused interventions like EMDR in the future. At Madison Square, we carefully assess each client's needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment approach based on their unique circumstances and clinical presentation.

Time and time again, a broad range of research has shown the effectiveness of EMDR. It’s widely considered one of the best treatments for post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and it has been endorsed as an effective therapy by many organizations including the American Psychiatric Association, the American Psychological Association, the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, National Alliance on Mental Illness, the U.K. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs/Dept. of Defense, The Cochrane Database of Systematic Review, and the World Health Organization.

The efficacy of EMDR is well-documented, with research indicating notable reductions in trauma-related symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety. However, it's crucial to recognize that success in therapy is multifaceted and individualized. At Madison Square, we prioritize collaboration with clients to establish personalized therapeutic goals. Whether it involves reducing the impact of traumatic memories or enhancing coping mechanisms, our approach is centered on tailoring interventions to address your unique needs. We are committed to supporting you in defining and achieving your own benchmarks for success.

Absolutely. Research has found EMDR to help with a range of issues including:

• Anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias

• Chronic Illness and medical issues

• Depression and bipolar disorders

• Dissociative disorders

• Eating disorders

• Grief and loss

• Pain

• Performance anxiety

• Personality disorders

• PTSD and other trauma and stress-related issues

• Sexual assault

• Sleep disturbance

• Substance abuse and addiction

• Violence and abuse

It varies. A wide range of studies have found that when dealing with single incident trauma (i.e. car accidents, natural disasters, sexual assault), many client experiences improvement in symptoms in even just 8-12 sessions.

Clients with multiple traumas and/or complex histories of childhood abuse, neglect, and poor attachment, however, may require more extensive therapy.

The length of treatment is something that you and your therapist can work together to navigate.

Most insurance companies do not distinguish between EMDR and other forms of talk therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). If your insurance plan has mental health benefits, it most likely covers EMDR as a therapy modality.

That being said, EMDR typically requires longer sessions (60-90 minutes) than other forms of psychotherapy (45-50 minutes) and your insurance company may not may not pay the additional cost associated with an extended session.

If you’d like to learn more about how to use your out-of-network benefits may cover EMDR, feel free to book a free consult where your therapist can speak more in depth about this topic.

The goal of EMDR therapy is to completely reprocess the traumatic events and memories that are causing problems and to include new information that is adaptive. EMDR aims to reduce certain symptoms including intrusive memories or thoughts, hypervigilance, irritability flashbacks, negative changes in thinking or mood, and any other trauma symptoms you may be experiencing. EMDR focuses not only on shifting past memories but also on alleviating present symptoms.

While originally developed as an in-person model of therapy, research has shown that EMDR can also be effective via telehealth. Since the pandemic, several virtual, HIPAA-compliant, EMDR platforms have been developed. These platforms have helped to make EMDR accessible and flexible for people who need a telehealth option.
We’re happy to offer both virtual (telehealth) and in person EMDR. Whether you’re looking for a virtual or in person experience, we’re be happy to discuss options.