EMDR is most well-known for its effectiveness.  Multiple studies and clinical trials have shown that EMDR can significantly reduce unwanted symptoms of mental illness.  EMDR is recognized as an effective treatment by organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO). 

It depends on the individual and the nature of the issues being addressed. If you’re processing a single incident it could take 3-6 sessions, with chronic symptoms of trauma or other mental health concerns it could take 6 months or longer.  And for couples, it depends on the each individuals triggers and triggers in the relationship, I would expect 6 months or longer.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) sufferers: EMDR is widely used to treat PTSD resulting from various traumatic experiences.

Anxiety disorders: It can be effective for treating generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and other anxiety-related issues.

Phobias: EMDR can help individuals cope with specific phobias and fears.

Depression: It may be used as part of a treatment plan for depression, particularly when trauma contributes to the depression.

Childhood trauma: EMDR is often used with individuals who have experienced childhood abuse, neglect, or other adverse experiences.

Performance anxiety: Athletes, performers, and professionals experiencing performance-related stress may benefit from EMDR.

Addiction: It can be used as part of therapy for individuals dealing with addiction, especially when trauma is a contributing factor.

Pain disorders: EMDR might be considered for individuals with chronic pain conditions where psychological factors play a significant role.

Grief and loss: EMDR can help individuals process traumatic grief or complicated bereavement.

Self-esteem issues: For individuals struggling with low self-esteem or negative self-concept due to past experiences.

Different Therapist: The effectiveness of EMDR can heavily depend on the therapist's skill and your rapport with them. Trying a different therapist who specializes in EMDR might offer a different experience and potentially better results.

Changed Circumstances: Sometimes, the timing or context of therapy sessions can impact their effectiveness. Changes in your life circumstances or mental state since your last attempt might make EMDR more effective now.

Initial Adjustment Period: Some people require multiple sessions to adjust to the therapy and start experiencing its benefits. The first few sessions may focus on building trust and understanding the process, which could lead to more effective sessions later on.

Complex Issues: If the issues you're dealing with are complex or deeply rooted, it might take multiple sessions of EMDR to effectively process and resolve them.

Variability in Techniques: EMDR therapists often tailor the therapy to the individual's needs and responses. Exploring different techniques within EMDR or adapting the approach based on your previous experience can lead to better outcomes.

• Identifying Triggers – We’ll pinpoint the moments when emotional reactions take over, whether it's feeling rejected, not good enough, or unsafe in the relationship.

• Reprocessing Past Pain – Each partner works through personal experiences that shape their reactions today, helping to release emotional baggage and create new responses.

• Healing Relationship Wounds – If there’s hurt from within the relationship—betrayal, past fights, or disconnection—EMDR helps process those emotions so they don’t keep resurfacing.

• Strengthening Emotional Connection – With less emotional reactivity, there’s more space for understanding, trust, and deeper intimacy.

EMDR doesn’t just help you "communicate better"—it helps you and your partner experience each other in a new way, without the weight of past pain getting in the way.