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EMDR Therapy Services at Nava Therapy

At Nava Therapy, we are dedicated to helping individuals heal from trauma, anxiety, and other distressing life experiences through evidence-based practices. One of our core therapeutic offerings is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an innovative and highly effective treatment designed to help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce emotional distress. This page will guide you through the benefits of EMDR therapy, how it works, and what to expect when you book a session with one of our skilled therapists at Nava Therapy in Detroit, Michigan.

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What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy is a structured, 8-phase approach designed to help individuals process and resolve traumatic memories. It involves the use of bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, taps, or sounds, while the client focuses on specific traumatic memories. This process helps "re-wire" how the brain stores these memories, allowing for a reduction in emotional intensity and psychological distress.

How EMDR Works

During EMDR sessions, your therapist will guide you through recalling distressing memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation. This interaction helps desensitize you to the emotional impact of the memory and reprocess it in a way that allows for healing. EMDR therapy is based on the belief that unresolved traumatic experiences are stored in the brain in a "frozen" or "stuck" state. EMDR facilitates the brain’s natural healing process, allowing you to move forward from these memories.

Conditions EMDR Can Help With:

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Depression
  • Grief and Loss
  • Phobias
  • Panic Attacks
  • Sexual, Physical, or Emotional Abuse
  • Substance Abuse Recovery

    • EMDR is particularly effective for individuals who have experienced trauma that has not fully healed through traditional talk therapy. The process typically involves several key phases, outlined below.

    1. History Taking & Treatment Planning

    Your therapist will begin by gathering a thorough understanding of your history and current emotional challenges. This is crucial for identifying the target memories that will be addressed in your EMDR sessions.

    2. Preparation

    In this phase, your therapist will explain the EMDR process in detail and teach you self-soothing techniques, ensuring you feel safe and comfortable before beginning the active part of therapy.

    3. Assessment

    During this phase, your therapist will help you identify specific memories, thoughts, or images associated with your trauma. Together, you will select a target memory and assess the emotions and negative beliefs connected to it.

    4. Desensitization

    This phase involves the use of bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements, tapping, or sounds) to help you process and release the emotional intensity tied to your target memory.

    5. Installation

    After desensitizing the traumatic memory, your therapist will guide you to focus on a positive belief related to the experience, installing a healthier, more adaptive understanding of the event.

    6. Body Scan

    To ensure full emotional healing, your therapist will check for any remaining physical sensations of distress related to the memory. If any tension or discomfort is present, the process continues until these are fully resolved.

    7. Closure

    Each session ends with closure, ensuring you leave feeling grounded and safe. If processing is incomplete, your therapist will guide you through relaxation exercises until you are ready to end the session.

    8. Reevaluation

    In follow-up sessions, your therapist will reevaluate your progress, ensuring the memories that were processed remain desensitized and exploring any new memories that may arise for further treatment.

    The Phases of EMDR Therapy

    At Nava Therapy, our team of licensed therapists follows the structured 8-phase model of EMDR therapy to ensure comprehensive and lasting results.

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    What to Expect During Your EMDR Session

    During your first EMDR session at Nava Therapy, you will meet with one of our experienced therapists, such as Nishani Jayawardena, Shelby McCliggott, or Dr. Silvia G. Leija, who will walk you through the therapeutic process. Each session typically lasts between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on your specific needs and progress.


    Our therapists create a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can feel comfortable addressing difficult memories at your own pace. EMDR is not a traditional talk therapy, but rather an interactive and experiential process, making it unique for those seeking an alternative to more conventional therapeutic approaches.

    Why Choose Nava Therapy for EMDR?

    At Nava Therapy, we understand that each individual’s journey through trauma and recovery is unique. Our Detroit-based therapy center offers compassionate, client-centered care designed to meet your specific needs. Here’s why you should consider EMDR therapy with us:

  • Expertise in Trauma Recovery: Our licensed therapists have extensive experience working with individuals suffering from trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and more.
  • Personalized Treatment Plans: We take the time to understand your unique history, tailoring the EMDR process to your specific goals and emotional needs.
  • Safe and Supportive Environment: At Nava Therapy, we prioritize creating a therapeutic space where you feel safe and empowered to confront difficult memories.
  • Client-Centered Approach: We believe in the healing potential within each client. Through EMDR, we aim to help you not only process trauma but also build resilience and personal growth.

    • Book an EMDR Therapy Session Today

    If you’re ready to start your healing journey with EMDR therapy, our experienced team at Nava Therapy is here to support you. Contact us today to book your session or to learn more about how EMDR can help you overcome trauma and emotional distress.


    We are proud to offer both in-person and virtual sessions for clients in Detroit and beyond, making high-quality mental health care accessible to everyone.

    Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR

    How many sessions of EMDR will I need?

    The number of EMDR sessions you will need depends on the nature of your trauma and how your brain responds to the treatment. Some clients experience relief after just a few sessions, while others may need more time to fully process their experiences.

    Is EMDR right for me?

    EMDR is effective for many individuals dealing with trauma, anxiety, or unresolved emotional issues. During your initial consultation, your therapist will determine if EMDR is the appropriate treatment for you.

    What if I don’t feel ready to face my trauma?

    Feeling apprehensive about confronting traumatic memories is normal. At Nava Therapy, our therapists work at a pace that feels comfortable for you, ensuring you are always in control of the process.