EMDR Therapy in Virginia Beach
Heal from trauma and distressing experiences with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain process painful memories so they no longer feel as overwhelming. We offer in-person EMDR therapy in Virginia Beach and secure telehealth throughout Virginia.
Evidence-Based Treatment
Virginia Beach
Telehealth Option
Insurance Accepted
Healing beyond just talking about the past.
Many people come to therapy knowing exactly what happened to them but feeling frustrated that understanding alone hasn't changed how they feel. They may continue to experience anxiety, panic, intrusive memories, shame, or a sense that their nervous system is constantly on alert.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is different from traditional talk therapy. Rather than focusing only on discussing painful experiences, EMDR helps the brain process memories that have become "stuck." As these memories are reprocessed, they often become less emotionally intense, allowing people to remember what happened without feeling overwhelmed by it.
Research has shown EMDR to be an effective treatment for trauma and PTSD, and it is also used to address concerns such as anxiety, panic, grief, phobias, and negative self-beliefs. At Restorative Mental Health, EMDR is thoughtfully integrated into a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs and goals.
Intrusive memories or flashbacks
Panic attacks or persistent anxiety
Strong emotional reactions to reminders of the past
Negative beliefs about yourself
Difficulty moving forward after painful experiences
Disturbing memories that still feel emotionally intense
Feeling "stuck" despite previous therapy
Trauma related to childhood, relationships, accidents, medical experiences, or other significant life events
EMDR may be helpful if you experience:
How EMDR Helps the Brain Heal
EMDR is based on the understanding that the brain naturally processes experiences as we move through life. Sometimes, however, overwhelming experiences become stored in a way that leaves the nervous system responding as though the danger is still present.
During EMDR therapy, you'll work with your therapist to identify memories, emotions, physical sensations, and beliefs connected to your experiences. Using bilateral stimulation—such as eye movements or tapping—the brain is able to reprocess those memories in a way that reduces emotional distress while strengthening healthier, more adaptive beliefs.
You remain awake, aware, and in control throughout the process. Your therapist guides each step, ensuring treatment moves at a pace that feels safe and manageable.
Our Approach
Evidence-Based Care
EMDR is recognized as an effective treatment for PTSD and trauma by organizations including the American Psychological Association (APA), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and the World Health Organization (WHO). It is supported by decades of research in helping people experiencing anxiety, panic, grief, phobias, crises, and other distressing life experiences.
Personalized Treatment
Some clients use EMDR as the primary focus of therapy, while others benefit from integrating it with approaches such as CBT, ACT, mindfulness, or somatic interventions. Together, we'll determine whether EMDR is appropriate and tailor treatment to your goals, comfort level, and readiness.
Safe and Collaborative
You remain in control throughout every stage of EMDR therapy. Your therapist will help you build coping skills and establish a strong foundation before beginning trauma processing, ensuring the work feels safe, collaborative, and manageable.
Meet Our EMDR Therapists
EMDR is a specialized therapy that requires advanced training and thoughtful preparation. Our clinicians are either fully trained or actively completing advanced EMDR training and integrate this approach into individualized treatment plans when it is clinically appropriate.
Rebecca Parthun, LPC
Holli Sokolick, RIC
Kim Hudson, RIC
Anna Driver, RIC
Frequently Asked Questions
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EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is an evidence-based psychotherapy that helps the brain process traumatic and distressing memories so they become less emotionally overwhelming over time.
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Yes. EMDR is one of the most extensively researched treatments for trauma and PTSD. It has been recognized by numerous national and international organizations as an effective treatment for trauma-related symptoms.
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No. While your therapist will need enough information to understand your experiences and treatment goals, EMDR does not require you to repeatedly describe every detail of traumatic events. Many people appreciate that therapy can focus more on processing than retelling.
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Bilateral stimulation refers to the alternating left-right stimulation used during EMDR therapy. This may involve eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones. Your therapist will help determine which method feels most comfortable for you.
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EMDR can bring up difficult emotions because it involves processing meaningful experiences. However, treatment is carefully paced, and your therapist will spend time helping you build coping skills and resources before beginning trauma processing. You remain in control throughout the process.
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The number of sessions varies depending on your goals, the nature of the experiences being addressed, and whether EMDR is part of a broader therapy plan. Some people experience meaningful relief in a relatively short period of time, while others benefit from longer-term treatment.
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Yes. In many cases, EMDR can be adapted effectively for secure telehealth sessions. During your consultation, your therapist can discuss whether virtual EMDR is appropriate for your needs and circumstances.
Related Services
Anxiety Therapy
Learn practical strategies to calm your nervous system and reduce persistent worry.
Depression Therapy
Reconnect with hope, purpose, and the parts of life that matter most.
Individual Therapy
Personalized therapy tailored to your unique experiences, goals, and values.
Trauma Therapy
Compassionate, trauma-informed care to help you heal from overwhelming experiences and reconnect with your life.
Healing Doesn’t Have to Wait
Whether you're exploring EMDR for the first time or wondering if it's the right fit for you, we're here to help. Our therapists will take the time to understand your goals, answer your questions, and develop a treatment plan that feels safe, collaborative, and personalized to your needs.
Healing begins with a conversation. We'd be honored to walk alongside you.
“Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health”