Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers about EMDR therapy and your healing journey.
Your Questions, Answered
Explore common topics and learn how EMDR can support your emotional wellness.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured therapy that helps people heal from trauma and emotional distress. It uses bilateral stimulation, like guided eye movements, to help the brain process and reframe difficult memories.
EMDR is widely used to treat PTSD, anxiety, depression, phobias, grief, and traumatic memories. It’s also effective for people dealing with complex trauma or negative self-beliefs.
Yes. EMDR is a safe and evidence-based therapy endorsed by organizations like the American Psychological Association and the World Health Organization. It should always be done with a trained EMDR therapist.
No, EMDR is not a form of hypnosis. During EMDR, you remain fully awake and in control. The therapy involves guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help you process and heal from difficult experiences in a safe and structured way.
The number of sessions varies depending on the person and the nature of the trauma. Some people see progress in a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term work.
Not necessarily. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn’t require you to go into detail about the traumatic memory. The focus is on how the memory is stored and processed, not on retelling it.
If you're struggling with trauma, anxiety, or painful memories, EMDR might be a great option. Book a consultation to see if it’s the right fit for your healing journey.
👋 Meet Sherly Millan, LICSW
Sherly is a bilingual trauma therapist licensed in Massachusetts and trained in EMDR. She's committed to helping you heal with warmth, evidence-based care, and cultural understanding. We are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (BCBS), Aetna, and Cigna. We are also credentialing with Tufts, Harvard Pilgrim, Optum, WellSense, and MassHealth.
Learn More About Sherly
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