At Welwynn Outpatient Center, we understand that healing from addiction often means addressing the deeper emotional wounds that fuel substance use—trauma, anxiety, grief, and more. That’s why we’re always seeking ways to enhance the therapeutic experience for our clients. We’re excited to now offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy as part of our individual therapy services for clients in our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and Substance Abuse Comprehensive Outpatient Treatment (SACOT) program.

But what exactly is EMDR—and how can it support your recovery?

What is EMDR?

EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy designed to help people recover from trauma and distressing life experiences. Developed in the late 1980s, EMDR works by helping the brain reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity and allowing for more adaptive thinking.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn’t require clients to go into detail about their painful experiences. Instead, it uses bilateral stimulation (often in the form of guided eye movements) to help the brain process these memories in a new way—one that reduces the emotional charge and promotes healing.

How EMDR Supports Recovery from Addiction

For many of our clients, substance use has become a way to cope with unresolved trauma or emotional pain. EMDR offers a safe and effective way to explore and release these deeper issues. When used as part of a comprehensive recovery program, EMDR can:

• Address root causes of addiction such as trauma, grief, or childhood experiences

• Reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD

• Support emotional regulation and reduce the urge to self-medicate

• Strengthen the mind-body connection for more grounded healing

By integrating EMDR into our IOP and SACOT programs, we’re giving our clients another powerful tool to process their pain, break old patterns, and move forward with clarity and confidence.

What to Expect from EMDR at Welwynn

EMDR sessions at Welwynn are facilitated by trained therapists who understand the unique needs of professionals navigating recovery. These sessions are personalized, compassionate, and confidential. We integrate EMDR into your broader treatment plan, ensuring it aligns with your goals and progress.

Whether you’re recovering from substance use, navigating co-occurring mental health conditions, or seeking deeper emotional healing, EMDR can offer a meaningful path forward.

Ready to Learn More?

If you’re curious about how EMDR might support your recovery, our team is here to help. Reach out today to learn more about our programs and how EMDR can be part of your healing journey.

Together, we can heal.