EMDR Therapy for veterans in Samoa, California

Online therapy serving individuals and couples in California and Ohio

What is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful, evidence-based therapy designed to help people heal from trauma and distressing life experiences. Originally developed in the late 1980s, EMDR therapy is now widely used to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions.

How EMDR Works:

EMDR therapy helps the brain process traumatic memories so they no longer feel overwhelming or intrusive. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR therapy doesn’t require you to go into detail about the trauma. Instead, it uses bilateral stimulation, often through guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds, to help the brain reprocess stuck memories.

During EMDR therapy sessions, we'll work to:

Identify distressing memories or experiences that are causing emotional pain.
Access those memories in a safe and controlled way.
Use bilateral stimulation to help your brain reprocess the memory.
Replace negative beliefs (like “I’m not safe” or “It was my fault”) with more empowering ones.

The goal is to reduce the emotional charge of the memory and help you feel more in control.

Why EMDR therapy Is Effective for Veterans:

Many veterans carry trauma from combat, loss, injury, or difficult transitions back to civilian life. EMDR therapy has been shown to be especially effective for:

Combat-related PTSD
Survivor’s guilt
Military sexual trauma
Moral injury
Anxiety and depression linked to service

Because EMDR therapy doesn’t require detailed retelling of traumatic events, many veterans find it less overwhelming than other therapies.

What to Expect:

EMDR therapy is a structured therapy that typically involves 8 phases, including history-taking, preparation, and reprocessing. Sessions are guided and tailored to your pace and comfort level.

You may notice changes such as:

Reduced emotional intensity around traumatic memories
Improved sleep and mood
Greater sense of safety and control
Increased ability to connect with others

Healing Is Possible

EMDR therapy offers hope and healing for those who feel stuck in the past. Whether you’re a veteran, active-duty service member, or someone affected by trauma, EMDR therapy can help you move forward with strength and resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can benefit from therapy with Heather Kilgore LMFT?

Therapy with Heather Kilgore LMFT can benefit anyone who is struggling with a mental health challenge or looking to improve their overall emotional well-being. I work with adult clients with various backgrounds.

What can I expect in my first therapy session?

In your first therapy session, we will discuss your reasons for seeking therapy and your goals for treatment. We will also talk about your medical history and any current symptoms you may be experiencing.

How long are therapy sessions?

Therapy sessions are generally 50 minutes in length but can be adjusted based on individual needs and insurance company requirements, if using insurance.

How often should I attend therapy?

The frequency of therapy sessions will depend on your individual needs, goals, and insurance requirements when applicable. Many clients attend therapy once a week, while others may attend more or less frequently. We will work together to develop a personalized treatment plan.