EMDR and Trauma Counseling in Cincinnati

Heal from your past and unlock your current potential to thrive.

Trauma does not ask permission to enter our lives. Sometimes it comes in the form of a big event like a near-death experience, but it can also be minor events or even complex trauma, such as years of abuse or neglect. Even if trauma has affected every part of your life, it does not define you. Come in person in North College Hill (directions) or do telehealth via our secure video platform (client must be in Ohio). Sessions are 45 minutes and the fee varies depending on the therapist (sliding fee scale available upon request). Use our instant benefits checker to see how much your insurance provider will reimburse. We are out of network, but we can take HSA payments. Still have questions? Check out the FAQ.

What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Developed by Francine Shapiro, EMDR integrates elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy with unique bilateral stimulation, typically induced by the therapist guiding the client's eye movements.

The process involves the individual recalling distressing memories while simultaneously focusing on external stimuli, such as the therapist's hand movements or auditory cues. The bilateral stimulation is thought to facilitate the brain's natural information processing, helping to reprocess traumatic memories and reduce their emotional intensity.

Over the course of treatment sessions, individuals often report a reduction in the emotional charge of traumatic memories, as well as improvements in overall well-being. EMDR is recognized as an effective therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and is also used to address various other mental health concerns.

Coping skills for Trauma

Get grounded

Trauma wants to transport you back to the moment or incident in your past that started it all. It lies and tells you that it’s still happening, that you are still in danger. Grounding means becoming more mindful of the present moment - the time and place you are in right now. Look into meditation and spend some time out in nature if you feel comfortable there. Your body and mind will thank you.

Journal

Journaling is another grounding activity that deserves its own space. Journaling can help you process thoughts that seem to swirl around in your head at a frenetic pact. This practice slows you down and forces you to put thoughts into words and externalize them. Try it out with no pressure - open a notebook or a note on your phone and start writing down your thoughts. How are you feeling? What happened today? What are you excited about or nervous about?

Symptoms of Trauma

Potential symptoms of trauma include:

  • Intrusive thoughts or memories of the traumatic event

  • Distressing dreams related to the event

  • Flashbacks or intense reactions to cues resembling the event

  • Psychological distress when reminded of the event

  • Efforts to avoid distressing memories, thoughts, or feelings about the event

  • Avoidance of external reminders like people, places, or activities associated with the event

  • Inability to remember an important aspect of the traumatic event

  • Negative beliefs or expectations about oneself, others, or the world

  • Distorted thoughts about the cause or consequences of the event

  • Persistent negative emotional state

  • Diminished interest or participation in significant activities

  • Feelings of detachment from others

  • Persistent inability to experience positive emotions

  • Irritable behavior and angry outbursts

  • Reckless or self-destructive behavior

  • Hypervigilance

  • Exaggerated startle response

  • Problems with concentration

  • Sleep disturbance

Spiritual and Religious Trauma

Spiritual and religious trauma refers to the emotional and psychological distress that individuals may experience as a result of harmful or distressing encounters within a spiritual or religious context. This type of trauma can stem from various sources, including rigid belief systems, abusive religious leaders, or traumatic events within a religious community. Keywords associated with spiritual and religious trauma include "religious trauma syndrome," "faith-based trauma," and "spiritual abuse."

Individuals who have experienced spiritual or religious trauma may grapple with feelings of guilt, shame, or fear associated with their faith or spiritual beliefs. Common manifestations of this trauma include questioning one's faith, loss of trust in religious institutions, and a sense of betrayal.

Counseling for spiritual and religious trauma aims to provide a safe space for individuals to explore and heal from these experiences. We use approaches such as trauma-focused therapy, narrative therapy, and existential therapy to help clients process their emotions, redefine their spiritual beliefs, and rebuild a positive relationship with their faith. If you or someone you know is struggling with spiritual or religious trauma, seeking professional counseling can be a vital step towards healing and restoring a sense of spiritual well-being.