Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of therapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR therapy shows that the mind can in fact heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma. Bilateral stimulation (BLS) is a core treatment element of EMDR and a process which distinguishes EMDR from any other method. Ott counseling utilizes EMDR therapy to support kids and adults challenged by PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic, and emotional distress.

EMDR Therapy Buffalo NY Ott Counseling

What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured therapy designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic or distressing life experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements or tapping) to activate the brain’s natural healing process while recalling painful memories in a safe, controlled way. The goal isn’t to erase the memory, but to reduce its emotional charge so it no longer disrupts daily life. At Ott Counseling, EMDR is often used to support clients dealing with trauma, anxiety, or stuck emotional patterns that haven't responded to other therapies. Sessions are paced in a custom way for each client, and always tailored to your comfort level.

What Age are your Clients?

At Ott Counseling, EMDR is a therapy used with our adolescent and adult patients. While sometimes used in practice with kids as young as 8 years old, it is particularly effective for teens and adults who are processing trauma, anxiety, or other emotionally charged experiences. For younger clients, EMDR is only introduced when developmentally appropriate, and always adapted to the individual’s pace and specific needs.

Teens

Adults

Older Adults

We Love EMDR For...

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PTSD

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Anxiety Disorders

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Trauma

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Negative Self-Image

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Grief & Loss

Is EMDR Right For Me?

Here are a few of the questions that we frequently get asked about Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing. Curious if this therapy might be helpful for you? Always feel free to contact us with additional questions or to schedule an appointment with one of our licensed therapists.

  • What does EMDR actually do?

    EMDR helps your brain process difficult memories and emotions in a way that reduces their emotional charge. Over time, it becomes easier to think about past experiences without feeling overwhelmed or crippled by the memory. 

  • Do I need to talk about my trauma in detail for EMDR to work?

    Not necessarily. EMDR doesn't require you to explain everything that happened - instead, it focuses on helping your brain reprocess the memories, often without needing to talk through every detail. For those that struggle with discussing their trauma, or who have discussed their trauma with a therapist at length without results, EMDR could be a therapy to consider.

  • How is EMDR different from traditional talk therapy?

    While talk therapy often focuses on insight and discussion, EMDR is more structured and uses bilateral stimulation (like eye movements) to help the brain rewire how distressing experiences are stored. 

  • Is EMDR safe for children or teens?

    Yes - EMDR can be very effective for children and teens. Our therapists use age-appropriate techniques to help younger clients process trauma in a safe, supportive environment. 

  • How many sessions does EMDR usually take?

    Length of treatment varies depending on the individual and the complexity of the trauma, but some people notice a difference in just a few sessions. Others may need longer-term support.

  • Can EMDR help with anxiety and not just trauma?

    Absolutely. EMDR is often used for anxiety, phobias, panic attacks, and even performance-related issues. This therapy can be an effective option for situations where unprocessed memories or beliefs are interfering with your present life.

  • I'm new to therapy. Will I feel worse before I feel better?

    Sometimes processing tough memories can stir up emotions, but that's what your therapist is for. They are here to guide the pace and ensure you're grounded throughout the process. While therapy can certainly be difficult, it is worth it.

  • Can EMDR be used alongside other therapy approaches?

    Yes! At Ott Counseling, our therapists often integrate EMDR with other evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, or Internal Family Systems to create a personalized treatment plan.

  • Where does Ott Counseling offer EMDR therapy?

    Our practice is located right in Buffalo, and we offer EMDR right in our office for in-person sessions. We also offer telehealth therapy sessions for anyone in the state of New York.

  • How do I know if EMDR is right for me?

    The start of any therapy starts with a conversation. During your initial consultation we’ll talk about your goals, symptoms, and history to determine whether EMDR or another approach might be the best fit.

Meet Your Therapists

Our Licensed Therapists at Ott Counseling come from all walks of life and embrace a wide variety of specialties. Schedule an appointment with a specific therapist, or feel free to contact us through our website and we can help you find the right fit.

Check out our latest therapy insights on our blog!

Blog Post: How Do I Know Which Kind of Therapy Is Right for My Child? (And Meet Our New Specialist)
By Ott Counseling December 3, 2025
Just like there’s no “one perfect therapy” for adults, there isn’t a single right choice for every child. Learn more about child therapy options in our recent blog!
Click to read blog: Which Trauma Therapy Is Right for Me?
By Ott Counseling October 13, 2025
As therapists, we know that healing from trauma isn’t one-size-fits-all… Here we examine EMDR, Progressive Counting, and Brainspotting as therapy options for trauma.
Click to read blog post: You're Getting on My Nerves(ous) System
By Ott Counseling August 1, 2025
“It’s all in your head.” Ah, yes, the least helpful advice ever given to anyone who has felt anxiety.

Explore Your Therapy Options

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy

Brainspotting

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Creative & Body-Based Interventions

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

DIR®/ Floortime®

Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing

Internal Family Systems

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction

Music Therapy

Nurture and Play

Progressive Counting

Schema Therapy

Theraplay®

A Little Client Love

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5 stars

Ott Counseling has, without mincing words, put in more time, effort, and energy into my mental health above and beyond any other therapist I have seen in decades. Patient, evidence-based, and extremely up-to-date on the latest therapy modalities and research. Would, quite literally, not be here to write this review had it not been for this practice and the people in it.

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5 stars

I have been meeting with [my therapist] and I am REALLY happy with how that's going as well. He is WONDERFUL so far. He is super attentive, empathetic and I have found myself saying 'Exactly!' multiple times. He really seems to get me.

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I hope you know how much you helped me through a very tough time. I wish you and Ott Counseling all of the best!

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I may never be able to find the words to tell you just how much you saved me, my marriage, and my faith in myself.

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You helped me more than you can ever know. You saved our lives quite literally and I can never repay you except to tell you just how much you did for my son and I.

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XXXX just loved [Ott Counseling]. She was super nervous all day yesterday and told us it would be a one and done thing. She said (before the appointment) even if she ever did do it again, it would be virtual. Well, she came out of the room and said she WOULD be doing it again, AND she wanted to do it in person lol. She was bummed she has to wait so long until her next appointment. It sounds like she felt very comfortable opening up to [her].

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THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR BEING THE FIRST POSITIVE PERSON IN MY LIFE!

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Of all of the people in my life who have helped me, you made the biggest difference. You repeatedly supported + uplifted me. Thank you.