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About EMDR
EMDR and Prolonged Exposure Synthesis
An Introduction to Emotional Freedom and Well Being
We practice in the area of psychological therapy known as EMDR and Prolonged Exposure. We were trained by the authorities of the United States Department of Veterans affairs to treat trauma and New York State Continuing Education to treat trauma and many other forms of problems in living.
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These therapies are recognized world-wide as scientifically tested and accepted therapies. You now have access to them in person or online.
There are common factors in every therapy, and we synthesize the active ingredients for fast, empirically proven, and effective results that last.
We are not affiliated with the EMDR Institute or EMDRIA.
History and Scientific Recognition of EMDR
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s.
Today, EMDR is also applied to a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, and other problems in living. It has been adapted to many real-life challenges in individuals and couples and for all ages.
Scientific Studies:
Shapiro, F. (1989). Efficacy of the EMDR treatment approach: Journal of Traumatic Stress.
Maxfield, L. (2007). Current status of EMDR therapy. Journal of Clinical Psychology.
Maxfield, L. (2007). Current status of EMDR therapy. Journal of Clinical Psychology.
Lee, C. W., & Cuijpers, P. (2013). The effectiveness of EMDR therapy for PTSD: A meta-analysis.
We are not affiliated with the EMDR Institute or EMDRIA.
Understanding the Brain
Why EMDR and Exposure Therapy Work So Well?
When we experience trauma or intense emotional stress, the brain reacts in powerful ways that can trap us in a loop of pain, panic, and avoidance.
Key Brain Systems Involved in Trauma
Amygdala
The “danger detector.” It sends out constant alarm signals—even for events that happened years ago. EMDR helps turn off this alarm by reprocessing memories in real time.
Sympathetic Nervous System
Triggers the fight, flight, or freeze response. Overactivation leads to panic, emotional numbness, and hypervigilance. Therapy restores balance.
Thalamus
Crucial for memory formation and retrieval. Our approach activates it safely, allowing hidden or avoided memories to come forward and be healed.
Symptoms This System Triggers
When your brain's alarm systems (like the amygdala and nervous system) stay active long after the danger has passed, it creates real and often overwhelming symptoms-both emotional and physical.
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Here's what you might be experiencing:
Intense anxiety, panic, or emotional flooding in everyday situations
Disturbing thoughts, nightmares, or flashbacks that won't go away
Physical symptoms like tightness, shaking, trouble breathing, or numbness
Feeling detached from others, emotionally flat, or stuck in negativity
This process often leads to major relief in just a few sessions.
These are not signs of weakness-they're your brain's way of trying to protect you. Through therapy, they can become optional.
How EMDR & Prolonged Exposure Therapy Help You Heal
At Herald Square Psychology, we combine the active ingredients of EMDR and Prolonged Exposure Therapy—two of the most studied trauma therapies in the world—to create fast, effective, and lasting results.
Therapy begins with a full assessment to determine the best fit for your needs.
You'll be guided through the process so it feels safe, structured, and empowering.
We process painful memories.
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In EMDR, we use lateral eye movement to help your brain safely reprocess memories.
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In Prolonged Exposure, you’ll revisit experiences through guided memory work, often with eyes closed.
As therapy progresses, the emotional weight of memories begins to fade. New, healthier beliefs about yourself and the world take root.
This process often leads to major relief in just a few sessions.
The mind learns pain, but it can also learn peace.
What EMDR & Exposure Therapy Can Help With
Our therapy is designed to support people struggling with trauma and a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges. Whether you're coping with recent events or long-standing distress, we help you move toward relief with a proven, structured approach that prioritizes safety, speed, and long-term change.
Common Issues We Treat
PTSD and unresolved trauma
Loss, grief, or emotional distress
Anxiety, panic, and hyperarousal
Negative thoughts and self-beliefs
Flashbacks, nightmares, and fears
Relationship pain and disconnection
What Our Clients Say
Real stories from real people who've experienced change.
"I was skeptical at first, but this therapy truly worked. For years, I carried anxiety and emotional pain I didn't understand. After just a few sessions, I felt lighter-like something finally clicked. I can breathe again, and I'm not afraid of my own thoughts anymore."
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- Lauren Mitchell, Client / Brooklyn, NY