Overcoming Trauma with EMDR Therapy: What It Is and How It Can Help You Heal

Trauma can leave lasting imprints — emotionally, mentally, and even physically. Whether it stems from a single traumatic event or a series of painful experiences, trauma can impact every area of your life. It can affect how you relate to others, how safe you feel in your own body, and how you view the world. But healing is possible, and EMDR therapy offers a unique and effective path forward.

At Sonatus Counseling in San Antonio, TX, we offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy as part of our trauma-informed approach to mental health care. This powerful, evidence-based treatment is helping people from all walks of life find relief from the burdens of trauma and reclaim a sense of peace and control.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR is a structured therapy method developed to help individuals recover from the emotional distress caused by disturbing life experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses less on the details of the trauma and more on how your brain stores and processes those memories.

The therapy involves a series of guided bilateral stimulation — often through eye movements, tapping, or sounds — while you recall specific memories related to trauma. This process helps the brain “reprocess” those memories in a more adaptive way, reducing the emotional intensity and negative beliefs that often accompany them.

Developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro, EMDR is now recognized by organizations such as the American Psychological Association, the World Health Organization, and the Department of Veterans Affairs as an effective treatment for PTSD and other trauma-related conditions.

Who Can Benefit from EMDR?

EMDR isn’t just for those with a formal PTSD diagnosis. It can be beneficial for anyone who has experienced trauma or distressing life events that continue to affect them. At Sonatus Counseling, our clinicians use EMDR to treat:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Childhood or developmental trauma
• Sexual, physical, or emotional abuse
• Grief and complicated loss
• Anxiety and panic disorders
• Phobias and performance anxiety
• Traumatic accidents or injuries
• Negative self-beliefs and low self-esteem

Trauma isn’t always about what happened. It’s also about how your body and mind responded. If you feel stuck, hypervigilant, or emotionally numb, EMDR may help you move forward.

What Happens During an EMDR Session?

EMDR therapy is typically structured into eight phases, which your therapist will tailor to your needs and comfort level. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

1. History Taking & Treatment Planning. You and your therapist will discuss your past, present symptoms, and goals for therapy. This helps identify target memories for reprocessing.
2. Preparation. You’ll learn grounding techniques and coping strategies to manage strong emotions and feel safe during the process.
3. Assessment. A specific traumatic memory is selected. You’ll identify negative beliefs and emotions tied to it, along with a positive belief you want to develop.
4. Desensitization. Bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements) begins while you briefly focus on the distressing memory. This process is repeated until the emotional charge decreases.
5. Installation. You’ll work to strengthen a more positive belief or perspective related to the memory.
6. Body Scan. You’ll notice any remaining physical tension or discomfort and address it as needed.
7. Closure. Each session ends with grounding techniques to ensure you leave feeling safe and stable.
8. Reevaluation. In subsequent sessions, your therapist will assess your progress and determine if additional reprocessing is needed.

At Sonatus Counseling, our EMDR-trained therapists create a supportive, judgment-free space where you can feel in control of your healing process every step of the way.

Why Choose Sonatus Counseling for EMDR in San Antonio?

Healing from trauma takes courage, and having the right support makes all the difference. At Sonatus Counseling, we bring deep compassion, advanced training, and a commitment to personalized care to every session. Our team of licensed therapists understands the complexities of trauma and the unique ways it shows up in people’s lives.

We’re proud to offer:

• EMDR therapy from trained and experienced clinicians
• A trauma-informed and client-centered approach
• Bilingual therapy services in English and Spanish
• Both in-person and telehealth options for flexible care
• A welcoming environment that values authenticity, safety, and empowerment

Whether you’ve experienced a recent trauma or are still carrying the weight of old wounds, EMDR therapy at Sonatus Counseling can help you reclaim your strength and rewrite your story.

Begin Your Healing Journey Today

You don’t have to face the impact of trauma alone. EMDR therapy can help you break free from painful patterns, reconnect with yourself, and move toward a brighter future. If you’re ready to explore this powerful healing tool, we’re here for you.

Reach out to Sonatus Counseling in San Antonio to schedule your first appointment with one of our EMDR specialists.