06/12/2026
In EMDR, the goal is not to change a person’s identity. The work is often about helping clients process the experiences, messages, and memories that have contributed to shame, fear, rejection, or disconnection.
As those experiences are reprocessed, negative beliefs such as “I don’t belong” or “I have to hide who I am” can begin to shift toward more adaptive beliefs like “I belong,” “I am enough,” and “I can be myself.” Along the way, we help clients strengthen experiences of connection, authenticity, safety, and belonging.
Healing is not just about reducing distress. It’s also about creating space for self-acceptance, joy, and the freedom to live as your authentic self.
Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
EMDR International Association. (2023). EMDR therapy overview. https://www.emdria.org/about-emdr-therapy/
Humanitarian Assistance Programs. (2019). EMDR therapy training materials and consultation guidelines. https://www.emdrhap.org
American Psychological Association. (2015). Guidelines for psychological practice with transgender and gender nonconforming people. American Psychologist, 70(9), 832–864. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0039906
Meyer, I. H. (2003). Prejudice, social stress, and mental health in le***an, gay, and bisexual populations: Conceptual issues and research evidence. Psychological Bulletin, 129(5), 674–697. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.129.5.674
