EMDR Therapy in Connecticut
Evidence-based trauma treatment with a certified EMDR therapist
What is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy approach specifically designed to help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce the distress associated with them. Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has become one of the most researched and effective treatments for trauma and PTSD.
As a certified EMDR therapist serving Connecticut—with over 12 years of clinical experience beginning at Silver Hill Hospital—I use this powerful therapeutic approach to help clients process difficult memories, reduce anxiety, and build resilience. EMDR works by helping the brain reprocess traumatic information in a way that reduces its emotional charge and allows for adaptive healing. EMDR can also support integration of material that surfaces during psychedelic experiences. I work a hybrid schedule, offering in-person sessions at my Darien office and telehealth throughout Connecticut.
How EMDR Therapy Works
EMDR therapy uses bilateral stimulation—typically eye movements, taps, or sounds—while you recall distressing memories. This process helps your brain reprocess traumatic information more adaptively, similar to how your brain naturally processes information during REM sleep.
Neurological Processing
EMDR helps your brain process and integrate traumatic memories that have been improperly stored
Emotional Healing
Reduces the emotional intensity of traumatic memories while maintaining the factual memory
Building Resilience
Develops adaptive coping mechanisms and strengthens psychological resilience
Rapid Results
Often produces significant improvements more quickly than traditional talk therapy
Conditions Treated with EMDR
According to the EMDR International Association and extensive clinical research, EMDR is particularly effective for:
- •Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- •Anxiety and panic disorders
- •Complex trauma and childhood trauma
- •Depression related to traumatic events
- •Phobias and fears
- •Grief and loss
- •Performance anxiety
- •Disturbing memories
- •Attachment issues
- •Chronic pain (psychological components)
The 8 Phases of EMDR
EMDR therapy follows a structured eight-phase approach:
- 1. History Taking: Understanding your background and identifying target memories
- 2. Preparation: Building coping skills and establishing safety
- 3. Assessment: Identifying specific memories and associated beliefs
- 4. Desensitization: Processing the target memory using bilateral stimulation
- 5. Installation: Strengthening positive beliefs
- 6. Body Scan: Addressing any remaining physical tension
- 7. Closure: Ensuring stability at the end of each session
- 8. Reevaluation: Assessing progress and identifying next targets
Why Choose Robert Romano for EMDR Therapy?
- ✓Certified EMDR Therapist: Completed comprehensive EMDR training and maintain certification
- ✓Trauma-Informed Care: Over 12 years specializing in trauma treatment
- ✓Integrative Approach: Combine EMDR with DBT, IFS, and other evidence-based methods
- ✓Flexible Options: In-person sessions in Darien or secure telehealth throughout Connecticut
- ✓Safe Environment: Compassionate, non-judgmental space for healing
Research-Backed Effectiveness
EMDR therapy is recognized by leading mental health organizations worldwide:
- • Endorsed by the American Psychiatric Association
- • Recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO)
- • Supported by the Department of Veterans Affairs
- • Recognized by the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies
- • Backed by numerous peer-reviewed clinical studies
Begin Your Healing Journey
If you're struggling with trauma, PTSD, or painful memories, EMDR therapy may help. Contact me to learn more and schedule a consultation.
Schedule a Consultation