Brainspotting and EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) are highly effective, targeted techniques for trauma and traumatic memories. Both have been shown to greatly reduce negative impacts of trauma, intrusive memories, distress experienced by clients. The technique works through guiding the eyes to spots or into movement associated with traumatic memories.

Rather than having to explain everything in words, Brainspotting and EMDR allow the body and brain to do the work they already know how to do — releasing stuck survival responses, emotional pain, and long-held patterns. Many people find it especially helpful when they feel “stuck,” overwhelmed, or aware that something is affecting them but can’t fully put it into language.

This approach is slow, attuned, and guided by your nervous system. You remain in control the entire time, while we create a safe, supportive space for your system to process at a pace that feels manageable. Melissa is extensively trained in both Brainspotting and EMDR modalities in order to create a custom experience to best benefit her clients.

Melissa incorporates mindful awareness, breathing and co-regulation into each of her sessions to ensure an environment of safety to process challenging experiences. Melissa's mature, compassionate therapeutic presence and her ability to engage a person in distress within a safe, trusting space where they feel truly heard, accepted, and understood leads to lasting healing effects.