Healing from Childhood Trauma with EMDR

Heather Steele
17 hours ago
3 min read

Childhood experiences shape how we see ourselves and the world around us.

For many people, painful events from the past—whether neglect, emotional wounds, or moments of feeling unsafe—can leave scars that still affect daily life.

You may find yourself questioning your worth, struggling in relationships, or carrying a sense of fear or shame that seems impossible to shake.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

Childhood trauma has a lasting impact, but healing is possible.

One approach that has helped countless people move forward is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.

What is EMDR?

EMDR is a specialized form of therapy designed to help the brain process traumatic memories so they no longer feel overwhelming or defining.

Instead of simply talking through the past, EMDR uses a structured process that involves recalling a painful memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation—often eye movements, gentle taps, or sounds that move back and forth.

This process helps the brain refile the memory, shifting it from an “unprocessed” state (where it feels raw and triggering) to a resolved one (where the memory exists, but without the same painful charge). EMDR can also be helpful even if you don't remember your trauma.

Over time, clients often describe the experience as if they can finally remember the event without being pulled back into it.

How EMDR Helps Heal Childhood Wounds

Childhood trauma is unique because it often affects a person’s core sense of self. For example:

A child who grew up feeling ignored may carry the belief, “I don’t matter.”
Someone who lived with constant criticism may struggle with the thought, “I’ll never be good enough.”
A child exposed to chaos or violence may feel, “The world isn’t safe.”

EMDR doesn’t erase the past—but it helps reshape these beliefs.

By processing the memories where those beliefs began, EMDR allows you to see them in a new light: “I do matter.” “I am good enough.” “I can feel safe.”

What the Process Looks Like

At MCC in Morrisville, clients typically begin EMDR with a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship. Here’s what you can expect:

History & Preparation – Together, we’ll identify the experiences that continue to affect you and build coping strategies so you feel steady throughout the work.
Targeting Memories – We’ll identify specific memories linked to painful beliefs about yourself.
Bilateral Stimulation – You’ll bring the memory to mind while following a set of eye movements, taps, or sounds that guide the brain into processing.
Resolution & Reprocessing – As your brain works through the memory, distress fades and healthier beliefs take root.
Integration – We’ll ensure that the shifts you make in session carry into your daily life, supporting new patterns of confidence and connection.

Many people begin to feel changes within just a few sessions, while others notice gradual but profound shifts over time.

A Story of Healing

Take Sarah, a fictional client who came to therapy carrying deep shame from growing up with a critical parent.

No matter what she achieved as an adult, she always heard that voice telling her she wasn’t enough.

Through EMDR, Sarah revisited those painful moments with the support of her therapist.

Over time, she felt the sting of the criticism fade and began to embrace a new belief: “I am worthy as I am.”

This shift didn’t just change how she felt inside—it gave her the confidence to pursue new opportunities, set healthier boundaries, and finally feel comfortable in her own skin.

Finding Healing in the Triangle

At Morrisville Counseling & Consulting, we specialize in trauma therapy, including EMDR.

Located in Morrisville, NC, we proudly serve clients from across the Triangle—including Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Apex.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore therapy or have tried other approaches before, EMDR may provide the breakthrough you’ve been hoping for.

Take the First Step

Healing childhood trauma takes courage—but you don’t have to do it alone. EMDR offers a powerful path forward, helping you process the past and reshape your future with strength, clarity, and compassion.

👉 Schedule your free 15-minute consultation today with MCC to explore whether EMDR is right for you.