EMDR Therapy in Plano, Texas
What is EMDR? EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a safe and non-invasive brain-based type of therapy developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro, a psychologist and researcher, to assist treatment of combat veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. It is conducted by specifically trained therapists to help the emotion and memory centers of the brain be able to become less aroused and less reactive to prior traumas. It has evolved over time and is also used to treat smaller traumas that occur over time, such as from bullying, harassment at work, relational difficulties, or other distressing situations. EMDR follows a structured treatment approach that includes: Meeting with and Resourcing the Client to increase resilience and distress tolerance; Pinpointing specific Negative Cognitions that limit or interfere with individual functioning or attainment of personal goals; moving towards the Active Stage of Reprocessing prior negative events with bilateral stimulation to help the Client become less triggered, less vigilant and less distressed; and finally to Reintegrate the healed nervous system with more positive and functional emotions and behaviors.
Who Can Benefit from EMDR Therapy?
Clients often begin EMDR to address trauma, anxiety, grief, or the lingering effects of difficult experiences that seem disproportionate to present life. It’s used to treat post-traumatic stress, childhood neglect or abuse, panic attacks, and even phobias that have resisted talk therapy. The process is grounded in neuroscience, helping the brain integrate information that was once fragmented by overwhelming emotion.
EMDR therapy helps children and adults of all ages. Therapists use EMDR therapy to address a wide range of challenges:
- Anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias
- Chronic Illness and medical issues
- Depression and bipolar disorders
- Developmental trauma
- Dissociative disorders
- Eating disorders
- Grief and loss
- Pain
- Performance anxiety
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma and stress-related issues
What to expect?
Initial sessions are directed toward preparation and safety, developing coping strategies, grounding techniques, and creating a common understanding of the Client’s intended goals. Once the client is ready to begin EMDR, we will introduce gentle bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping, or similar) while the client simultaneously recalls specific memories, beliefs, or cognitions. This helps your brain to reprocess old information and store that information more adaptively.
A Collaborative Approach
Amy Burley, LPC, has completed training in EMDR treatment protocols through EMDRIA™ and is practiced in guiding each client with care and precision. Her work integrates EMDR with mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and grounding techniques to support safety and customization for each client’s specific therapeutic needs. She doesn’t rush the process; she matches the pace of each person’s healing. Sessions are confidential, respectful, and rooted in genuine human connection.
If you’re ready to loosen trauma’s grip or quiet the mind that won’t rest, EMDR may be the next right step. Schedule a consultation with Amy in our Plano office today.