Your Guide to EMDR Therapy in Tampa

Written By Mary Perleoni
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Author: Dr. Mary Perleoni, Ph.D., LMHC

Are you searching for an answer to your trauma and finding yourself exploring a type of therapy you heard of called "EMDR"? Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR Therapy) is an innovative and evidence-based approach that is transforming the way trauma is treated, offering hope for individuals facing PTSD, complex trauma, and a wide array of emotional challenges. At It Begins Within, we specialize in providing EMDR treatment in Tampa.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy was developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro and has been further refined by experts like Dr. Laurel Parnell. It is a structured, eight-phase therapeutic approach that uses bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements) to help reprocess traumatic memories. By "unlocking" stored trauma, EMDR can facilitate healing and reduce the emotional charge associated with painful past experiences.

This approach has been shown to benefit not only those with single-event traumas but also individuals grappling with Complex PTSD and chronic stress.

Learn more in the short video about emdr therapy

Do EMDR Therapists Practice EMDR in the First Session If Requested?

While some clients are eager to dive into EMDR right away, it’s important to establish safety and trust before beginning. At It Begins Within, our therapists prioritize understanding your history, needs, and goals during the first session. Building a strong therapeutic foundation ensures you’ll feel supported when processing distressing memories later.

For clients who request EMDR early, we work collaboratively to determine if they are ready or if grounding techniques and preparation are needed first. Often, jumping right into EMDR therapy can be ineffective and damaging.

Does EMDR Work Even If You Can’t Remember Your Traumas?

One of the most remarkable aspects of EMDR is its ability to help even when you can't recall specific traumatic events. Memories and emotional distress are often stored implicitly in the body and mind. EMDR taps into these hidden memories, enabling your brain to process the feelings and beliefs tied to those experiences without requiring full conscious recall.

At It Begins Within, we’ve seen clients experience profound relief through EMDR even when they start sessions saying, "I just don’t know why I feel this way." With time, emdr therapy addresses the root of the issue, often unlocking surprising insights.

Does EMDR Help People Who Suffer from Complex PTSD?

Yes, EMDR is particularly effective for individuals with Complex PTSD, which results from prolonged, repeated trauma often experienced in childhood or abusive relationships.

Dr. Laurel Parnell’s attachment-focused EMDR approach integrates compassion and connection, addressing the intricate layers of emotion and belief systems built up over years of adversity. This allows individuals to process both big "T" traumas and smaller, chronic "t" traumas. Our EMDR sessions in Tampa are tailored to gently work through these layers, helping clients regain a sense of safety, control, and self-worth.

What Are the Side Effects After Doing EMDR for a While?

Side effects vary from person to person but often include temporary emotional or physical responses as your mind adjusts to processing trauma. These may include:

Feeling fatigued or emotionally drained.

Increased dreams or memories surfacing between sessions.

Heightened emotions immediately after a session, which usually subside.

These reactions are natural and often a sign that the therapy is working. Our Tampa EMDR therapists provide you with coping tools to navigate these effects and ensure you feel supported throughout your healing journey.

How Can You Tell If EMDR Therapy Is Working?

Signs of progress during EMDR therapy can include:

  • A decrease in emotional intensity when recalling specific memories.

  • Feeling calmer or less triggered in daily life.

  • A growing sense of empowerment and clarity about your past.

  • Experiencing insights or connections that shift your perspective.

Many of our clients at It Begins Within have shared moments of breakthrough—realizing they’ve finally released a heavy emotional burden they’ve carried for years.

What Is It Like to Undergo EMDR Treatment?

Undergoing EMDR is often described as intense but deeply rewarding. During sessions, you’ll focus on a specific memory or issue while your therapist guides you through bilateral stimulation, whether through eye movements, tapping, or auditory cues.

Clients often feel a wave of emotions during sessions, followed by a sense of lightness or resolution. Between sessions, many notice shifts in how they view themselves, their relationships, and their ability to handle challenges.

Find EMDR Therapy in Tampa Today

If you’re searching for "EMDR treatment in Tampa" or "eye movement therapy near me," It Begins Within offers a safe and welcoming space to begin your journey.

Whether you’re dealing with PTSD, Complex PTSD, or emotional challenges, our skilled therapists are here to help you reclaim your life.

Don’t wait. Healing can start today. Contact us to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward transformative change with EMDR therapy.

Mary Perleoni