Effective EMDR Therapy in St. George Utah
Maybe you've tried everything. Journaling, meditation apps, positive affirmations, even years of traditional therapy. And while some of it helped a little, that heavy feeling in your chest never fully went away. The nightmares still come. The anxiety still spikes at unexpected moments.
You're tired of just managing symptoms—you want real change. If that resonates with you, it might be time to explore EMDR therapy in St. George Utah.
At Elevated Counseling and Wellness, we specialize in helping people who feel like they've hit a wall in their healing journey. EMDR offers something different—a way to address trauma at its root rather than simply talking around it.
And for many of our clients here in Southern Utah, it's been the breakthrough they've been searching for.
Beyond Talk Therapy: A Different Kind of Healing
Let's be clear: there's nothing wrong with traditional talk therapy. It helps millions of people, and we use it as part of our practice too.
But for some individuals—especially those dealing with deep-seated trauma—talking about painful experiences over and over can start to feel like picking at a wound that never heals.
EMDR therapy in St. George Utah takes a different approach. Developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (most commonly guided eye movements) to help your brain reprocess traumatic memories. Instead of endlessly analyzing what happened, you work with your therapist to help your mind do what it naturally wants to do: heal.
The result? Memories that once triggered panic, shame, or overwhelming sadness begin to feel more neutral. You can still remember what happened, but the memory loses its power over you.
Common Questions About EMDR Therapy
When people first hear about EMDR, they often have questions. Here are some of the most common ones we hear from clients considering EMDR therapy in St. George Utah:
Do I have to relive my trauma during EMDR?
No. Unlike some forms of exposure therapy, EMDR doesn't require you to describe your trauma in extensive detail or stay immersed in the memory for long periods. You'll briefly access the memory while your therapist guides you through bilateral stimulation, but the goal is to process it quickly rather than dwell in it.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies from person to person. Some people experience significant relief in just a few sessions, while others with more complex trauma histories may benefit from longer-term treatment. Your therapist will work with you to create a plan that fits your unique situation.
Is EMDR only for PTSD?
Not at all. While EMDR is highly effective for PTSD, it's also used to treat anxiety and depression, phobias, grief, performance anxiety, and many other concerns rooted in past experiences.
Will I lose my memories?
No. EMDR doesn't erase memories—it changes how they're stored. You'll still remember what happened, but the memory will feel less emotionally charged. Many clients describe it as finally being able to think about their past without being pulled back into it.
Types of Trauma We Treat with EMDR
Trauma comes in many forms, and all of them are valid. At Elevated Counseling and Wellness, our EMDR-trained therapists help clients work through:
- Single-incident trauma such as accidents, assaults, or witnessing violence
- Complex trauma from ongoing abuse, neglect, or toxic relationships
- Developmental trauma from difficult childhood experiences
- Medical trauma from serious illness, surgery, or frightening diagnoses
- Religious or spiritual trauma—we also offer specialized support for those experiencing a faith crisis or transition
- Secondary trauma experienced by first responders, healthcare workers, or caregivers
- Grief and loss that has become complicated or prolonged
A Safe Space for Everyone
We know that seeking therapy—especially for trauma—requires vulnerability. That's why we've built a practice grounded in safety, respect, and acceptance.
Elevated Counseling and Wellness is LGBTQ+ affirming and welcomes people from all backgrounds, identities, and belief systems. You don't have to edit yourself here. You can show up exactly as you are.
Our therapists are formally trained in EMDR through EMDRIA, and they bring both expertise and genuine compassion to every session. We also offer individual therapy services that can complement your EMDR work, helping you build coping skills, process emotions, and develop a stronger sense of self.
Getting Started with EMDR Therapy in St. George Utah
Ready to see what EMDR can do for you? Here's how to take the first step:
1. Reach out. Contact our office online or call us at 435-301-6865. We'll answer your questions and help you schedule an initial appointment.
2. Meet your therapist. Your first session focuses on getting to know each other. We'll learn about your history, your goals, and what brought you to therapy.
3. Build a foundation. Before beginning EMDR processing, we'll ensure you have the coping skills and sense of safety needed to do this work effectively.
4. Begin healing. When you're ready, we'll start the EMDR process—at your pace, with your therapist guiding you every step of the way.
Whether you prefer meeting in person at our office or through secure online telehealth, we're here to support you.
You've carried this weight long enough. EMDR therapy in St. George Utah could be the turning point you've been waiting for. We're here when you're ready to begin.
Change your life. Begin again.
