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EMDR vs Traditional Talk Therapy: What You Should Know

  • Melissa Joslin
  • Aug 5
  • 2 min read
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When you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, or emotional overwhelm, choosing the right type of therapy can feel confusing. Two of the most common approaches—EMDR therapy and traditional talk therapy—can both be helpful, but they work in very different ways.


Understanding the key differences can help you decide which might be the better fit for your healing journey.


What is EMDR Therapy?


EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured therapy that helps the brain process and release distressing memories. Instead of retelling your story over and over, EMDR focuses on how your body and mind store trauma and aims to reduce the emotional charge around it.


EMDR often helps people who:

  • Feel “stuck” in past memories or trauma

  • Experience physical symptoms like panic, tightness, or numbness

  • Have already tried talk therapy but want deeper healing

  • Struggle with PTSD, anxiety, or painful childhood experiences


What is Traditional Talk Therapy?

Talk therapy (like CBT or psychodynamic therapy) involves speaking with a therapist about your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It’s often helpful for gaining insight, building coping tools, and improving relationships.


Talk therapy may be helpful if you:

  • Want to explore patterns in your thinking or relationships

  • Need support processing current life stressors

  • Prefer verbal processing and discussion

  • Are looking for coping skills, problem-solving, or emotional support


Which One Is Right for You?


There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Some people begin with talk therapy and transition into EMDR when they’re ready. Others start with EMDR because they’ve already “talked it out” and want a more body-based or neurologically informed method.


Ready to Explore EMDR?


If you're curious about whether EMDR could help you move forward, we offer private-pay EMDR therapy for adults in the greater Sacramento area and beyond. Call Crosstown Psychology at (209) 650-1123. Schedule your free 15-minute consultation today.



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