EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful, evidence-based approach to healing trauma and distressing life experiences. At Ancora Wellness in Hillsboro, Oregon, we use EMDR to help clients process painful memories, release emotional triggers, and move toward greater calm and balance.
If you’re searching for therapy in Hillsboro, or wondering whether EMDR might be right for you, this guide explains what EMDR is, how it works, and why it’s covered by insurance.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is an experiential, trauma-focused therapy that helps your brain reprocess memories that are “stuck” in the nervous system. These unresolved memories can continue to trigger stress, anxiety, or negative beliefs about yourself, even years after an event occurred.
During an EMDR session, your therapist guides you through recalling a specific memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation—such as side-to-side eye movements, tapping, or sounds. This technique activates the brain’s natural healing process, helping you integrate and release the emotional charge of the experience.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses less on analyzing and more on experiencing and resolving. Clients often find that emotional distress decreases and self-compassion grows as sessions progress.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy
Research shows EMDR is highly effective for trauma and anxiety-related symptoms, but its benefits extend beyond PTSD. Many clients use EMDR to address:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Depression and grief
- Childhood trauma or abuse
- Relationship challenges
- Chronic stress or burnout
- Low self-esteem or negative self-beliefs
Because EMDR works directly with the brain’s memory processing system, it often brings faster and longer-lasting results than traditional talk therapy alone. It’s also a gentle approach—clients remain fully in control throughout the process.
Is EMDR Covered by Insurance?
Yes — EMDR therapy is covered by insurance. It is billed the same way as standard counseling or talk therapy sessions. If your insurance covers mental health services, EMDR sessions at Ancora Wellness are included under that benefit.
Our officer manager can help to verify your insurance coverage but we always recommend reaching out directly to your carrier to confirm benefits.
EMDR Therapy in Hillsboro and Online Across Oregon
At Ancora Wellness, we believe in whole-person, trauma-informed care that honors each client’s unique story. EMDR therapy is available in person at our downtown Hillsboro clinic or virtually for clients anywhere in Oregon.
Currently, three of our clinicians offer EMDR therapy as part of our integrative counseling services. Each therapist brings a compassionate, affirming approach that supports emotional healing and nervous system regulation.
Start EMDR Therapy at Ancora Wellness
If you’re ready to explore EMDR therapy or want to learn whether it’s a good fit for your needs, our team would love to connect with you.
Visit Ancora Wellness in Hillsboro to schedule your first appointment or contact us for a free consultation. Healing is possible — EMDR can help you take the next step toward it.
