EMDR, which stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a powerful and evidence-based approach for healing trauma and PTSD. It helps your brain and body complete the natural healing process that may have been interrupted by overwhelming experiences. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, anxiety, or distress that feels stuck, EMDR therapy provides a structured and effective way to find relief.
I offer in-person EMDR trauma therapy in Burnsville MN and virtual sessions for clients across Minnesota. No matter what brings you here, you deserve a space to heal with care, compassion, and respect.
When we go through something traumatic, our brain and body may not be able to fully process the event in the moment. This can leave us feeling triggered, anxious, or emotionally overwhelmed long after the event has passed. EMDR therapy works by helping the brain reprocess these memories in a safe and gentle way. The goal is not to erase the memory, but to change how it feels in the present. After EMDR, people often report feeling more grounded and less affected by past experiences.
One of the unique things about EMDR therapy is that it taps into your body’s innate ability to heal. We don’t need to talk in detail about the traumatic event. Instead, we focus on processing the emotional and physical sensations associated with it. This makes EMDR a helpful option for people who feel overwhelmed by traditional talk therapy or who don’t want to revisit every detail of what happened.
In my work as a trauma therapist in Burnsville MN, I have found EMDR to be a powerful tool for helping clients move forward. It allows us to gently address the root causes of distress while honoring your pace and readiness.
Healing PTSD and Anxiety with EMDR Therapy in Burnsville MN
EMDR is especially effective for PTSD and trauma-related symptoms, including:
- Intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or nightmares
- Feeling anxious, on edge, or easily startled
- Avoidance of reminders or situations
- Feelings of guilt, shame, or self-blame
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Emotional numbness or disconnection
- Chronic fear or a sense of being unsafe
As an EMDR therapist, I work with clients who are experiencing all of these symptoms and more. EMDR therapy can also help with anxiety that feels out of control, especially when it is tied to past experiences. Many people find that EMDR for anxiety helps them feel calmer, more present, and better able to handle daily stress.
It’s important to know that EMDR therapy doesn’t begin with trauma processing right away. Before we start, we make sure EMDR is a good fit for you, take time to establish a strong therapeutic relationship and build your sense of safety. We’ll also develop tools and strategies to help you manage emotions that may come up. My focus is always on your comfort and readiness. Therapy is a partnership, and you are in control of the process.
What Is EMDR and How Does It Work
The therapy involves eight phases, including history-taking, preparation, assessment, reprocessing, and evaluation. During reprocessing, we focus on a specific memory and use bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, tapping, or sounds, to help the brain process the memory in a new way.
Throughout EMDR therapy, we check in often to ensure that the work feels manageable and safe. Many people find the experience to be gentle yet deeply effective. You remain fully in control and aware during each session. The goal is to help you feel less triggered, more present, and better able to respond to life as it is today.
In my EMDR trauma therapy practice, I often combine EMDR with other methods such as somatic therapy, DBT and other mindfulness practices. This integrative approach helps support the whole person and allows us to tailor the work to your specific needs.
Who Can Benefit from EMDR Therapy
You might benefit from EMDR therapy in Burnsville MN if:
- You have experienced a traumatic event, such as assault, accident, or abuse
- You have symptoms of PTSD or complex trauma
- You feel stuck in negative patterns or beliefs
- You experience anxiety, panic, or chronic stress
- You struggle with low self-esteem or self-worth
- You have difficulty managing emotions or triggers
- You feel haunted by memories or events from the past
Even if you are not sure whether your experience “counts” as trauma, EMDR therapy can help you explore what’s going on and find a path toward healing. We don’t need to have all the answers at the beginning. What matters is that you feel ready to take a step toward change.
At Collective Healing Solutions, I offer EMDR therapy for individuals seeking relief from the emotional pain associated with traumatic events and other mental health concerns. Whether you are just beginning to explore therapy or are looking for a new approach, I’m here to help.
When we begin EMDR, we identify a specific target memory or issue to focus on. We then use bilateral stimulation to help your brain process the memory. This process continues over several sessions, depending on your needs and pace. You are never pushed to go faster than you feel ready for.
My role is to guide and support you, not to direct or control the process. As a trauma therapist, I am here to walk alongside you with empathy, respect, and care.
Some clients are ready for EMDR therapy right away, while others may need time to build up to it. I often use other modalities, including somatic therapy, DBT and other mindfulness practices, to help you feel grounded and present before we begin trauma reprocessing.
As an EMDR therapist, I believe that healing is possible for everyone. I also believe that therapy should be a respectful and collaborative process. My approach is gentle, patient, and focused on your unique journey.
EMDR therapy can help you:
- Reduce emotional distress and anxiety
- Feel more in control of your responses
- Improve sleep and daily functioning
- Increase self-awareness and confidence
- Let go of painful memories or beliefs
- Feel more present and connected in your life
Whether you’re struggling with recent trauma, long-standing issues, or ongoing anxiety, EMDR therapy offers a powerful way to support your healing.
I offer in-person EMDR trauma therapy in Burnsville MN, as well as virtual therapy across the state. My goal is to make therapy accessible, compassionate, and effective. You deserve to feel safe, empowered, and supported on your path to healing.
📞 Call: (952) 222-8011
🖥️ Book Online: Free 15-min Consultation
📩 Email: ali@collectivehealingsolutions.com
for your free consultation.