EMDR & Parts Work

In my practice, I often weave together EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and parts work to support trauma healing, strengthen self-compassion, and help you feel more steady in your day-to-day life. These approaches can be especially helpful for attachment wounds, anxiety, burnout, and the patterns that keep showing up even when you “know better.”

What is EMDR?

EMDR is a trauma-informed therapy that helps the brain and body process distressing experiences that can stay stuck in the nervous system. That can include major events, but it can also include the slow accumulation of stress, relational hurt, or periods of feeling unsafe, unseen, or alone. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, like eye movements or tapping, to support your nervous system in metabolizing what happened so it feels less activating in the present. Many clients find it deep and efficient, but also surprisingly gentle. We move at your pace, with safety, choice, and consent at the center.

What is Parts Work?

Parts work is a way of understanding your inner world as made up of different parts that developed for a reason. You might recognize an inner critic, a people-pleaser, an anxious planner, or a shut-down protector. Rather than trying to get rid of these parts, we get curious about them and the role they’ve been playing. What are they protecting you from? What do they need? What would it be like to meet them with compassion instead of judgment? I draw from Internal Family Systems (IFS) and other parts-based approaches to help you build a more trusting, connected relationship with yourself.

How I Integrate EMDR and Parts Work

When we combine EMDR and parts work, it often creates a powerful pathway for change. Parts work helps us understand what is happening internally and build trust with protective parts. EMDR helps process the memories, beliefs, and emotional burdens those parts are carrying so they do not have to work so hard. This might include preparing for EMDR by working with parts that feel hesitant, supporting younger parts before and after processing, or using EMDR to loosen shame, fear, or stuck beliefs that have been around for years.

Is This Approach Right for You?

If you feel stuck in patterns you cannot talk your way out of, or your reactions feel bigger than your current situation, this integrative approach may be a good fit. You do not need any prior experience with EMDR or parts work. I’ll guide you step by step, answer questions along the way, and tailor the pace to what feels supportive for you.