Trauma Recovery and the Role of EMDR Therapy

Trauma can leave a deep and lasting impact, not just emotionally, but physically. When we experience something traumatic, whether it's a major event or a series of smaller, ongoing stressors, the brain and body react in ways we may not fully understand. The brain, specifically the areas responsible for memory and emotion, goes into survival mode. This response can make us feel stuck, constantly reliving moments we’d rather forget. Trauma isn’t just “in our heads”, it can show up as chronic pain, fatigue, or even affect our immune system. Healing from trauma takes time, and therapy can be a vital part of that process. 

At Brightside Behavioral Health, we offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as one of our trauma treatment options designed to help process and heal from trauma.  EMDR works by using guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories, allowing you to feel less triggered by them. Over time, this technique can reduce the emotional charge attached to painful memories, helping you move forward with less anxiety or fear. Many of our therapists are trained to provide this powerful method as part of a comprehensive approach to trauma recovery. 

Whether you prefer in person sessions in Johnston, Cranston, or Warwick, or telehealth from the comfort of your home anywhere in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, we’re here to support you every step of the way on your healing journey.