EMDR Therapy for Anxiety
in Minnesota for individuals experiencing persistent worry, panic symptoms, emotional overwhelm, trauma-related anxiety, and anxiety patterns that continue to interfere with daily life. BHSI Clinics offers personalized Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy designed to help process unresolved experiences and reduce the emotional intensity behind anxiety, available at five Twin Cities locations and through secure telehealth statewide.
Quick Facts:
• Who it’s for: Children, teens, and adults in Minnesota experiencing anxiety related to trauma, distressing life experiences, panic symptoms, persistent fear, emotional overwhelm, or patterns of anxiety that continue despite traditional coping efforts
• Symptoms addressed: Persistent anxiety, panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, emotional distress connected to past experiences, excessive fear, heightened stress responses, avoidance behaviors, feelings of being emotionally stuck, physical tension, and difficulty managing triggers
• Outcomes: Reduced anxiety and emotional distress, healthier responses to stressors, increased emotional resilience, improved self-awareness and confidence, fewer reactive patterns, reduced emotional intensity around difficult memories, and greater peace in daily life
• Modalities offered: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) using structured phases and bilateral stimulation techniques such as guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds, with treatment individualized to each client’s experiences and goals
• Sessions: Individual EMDR therapy sessions; first appointment is typically 50 to 60 minutes, with ongoing treatment frequency adjusted based on symptom severity, goals, and progress
• Telehealth: Available statewide across all of Minnesota through secure telehealth services where clinically appropriate
• Locations: Brooklyn Center, Golden Valley, North St. Paul, Eagan, and Shakopee
• Insurance: Aetna, BHP, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Cigna, Health Partners, Humana, Medica, Medicaid, Medicare, MinnesotaCare, Tricare and Triwest, United Health Care, UBH, UCare, Value Options, AmericasPPO, HealthEZ, SolarteHealth, Hennepin Health, and South Country Health Alliance; call 651-769-6565 to verify your specific plan
How does EMDR therapy help with anxiety?
EMDR therapy helps reduce anxiety by targeting the underlying experiences and memories that may be contributing to ongoing emotional distress. Instead of focusing only on managing symptoms, EMDR uses structured phases and bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess distressing experiences in a way that reduces their emotional intensity. Over time, this can lead to fewer anxiety triggers, improved emotional regulation, and a greater sense of calm and stability.
Let Go of What Holds You Back with EMDR Therapy
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR therapy for anxiety focuses on addressing the root memories and experiences behind your emotional distress. Sometimes, these unresolved experiences get “stuck” in your brain, causing ongoing anxiety that shows up again and again in your daily life. EMDR isn’t about reliving the pain—it’s about gently helping you release it. This therapy is a supportive, collaborative process designed around your unique needs, empowering you to build emotional resilience and find greater clarity. If you’re ready to let go of the anxiety that’s been holding you back and step into a calmer, more grounded version of yourself, EMDR therapy can guide you there. Through EMDR, we help your brain reprocess difficult memories in a way that reduces their emotional impact, allowing you to move forward with freedom and peace.
EMDR Therapy for Anxiety can help with the following:
Relief from emotional pain tied to past trauma or difficult experiences
Reduced feelings of anxiety, fear, or overwhelm
A healthier, more balanced response to current stressors
Increased self-awareness and confidence
Freedom from old patterns of thought and behavior
Frequently Asked Questions EMDR Therapy for Anxiety
Does EMDR really work for anxiety?
Yes, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy has been shown to be effective for treating anxiety. Originally developed for trauma and PTSD, EMDR helps the brain reprocess distressing memories and reduce the emotional impact that contributes to anxiety. Many clients experience a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms after EMDR therapy, making it a valuable treatment option.
When should EMDR not be used?
EMDR may not be appropriate for everyone. It is generally not recommended for individuals who:
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Are currently experiencing severe dissociation or psychosis
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Have unstable medical conditions or severe neurological disorders
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Are actively abusing substances without concurrent treatment
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Have certain types of unmanaged seizures
In these cases, other treatments or stabilization may be needed before EMDR can be safely used.
What is the success rate of EMDR therapy for anxiety?
While exact success rates can vary, studies suggest that about 70-90% of individuals with anxiety and trauma-related disorders experience meaningful improvement with EMDR. The success rate depends on factors like the severity of symptoms, the presence of co-occurring conditions, and the skill of the therapist.
Are there any negative effects of EMDR?
Some clients may experience temporary side effects such as:
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Increased emotional distress or anxiety during early sessions
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Vivid dreams or emotional memories between sessions
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Physical sensations like headache or fatigue
These effects usually lessen over time as therapy progresses. EMDR should always be conducted by a trained professional who can help manage and support clients through these experiences.
Reframing Your Past, Reclaiming Your Future
Heal unresolved emotional wounds that fuel stress and anxiety
Reprocess past experiences to reduce the emotional charge they hold over your present
Strengthen your ability to stay present and grounded in challenging situations
Learn tools to effectively manage and minimize stress in your daily life
Gain clarity and confidence by shifting negative self-beliefs
Create long-term emotional resilience by transforming how you respond to triggers
Discover Healing Through EMDR Therapy for Anxiety at BHSI
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy uses a structured eight-phase process that includes guided bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, taps, or sounds. This process helps activate your brain’s natural ability to process and heal. As we work together, EMDR will allow you to access and address the core beliefs and emotions tied to past events, shifting your perspective and helping you develop a sense of resolution. You’ll no longer feel “stuck” in the emotional loops or reactive patterns that have kept you from fully living.
