EMDR follows a repeatable eight-phase model. Its predictability lets the client stay in control, and you can safely integrate your faith if you wish. Faith-based EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) offers a compassionate, clinically grounded, and spiritually sensitive path forward. It doesn’t replace faith or prayer; it gives your brain and nervous system a proven way to move painful memories from the front seat of your life to their rightful place in the past—while honoring your relationship with God every step of the way. Here’s how it typically unfolds, with examples of optional faith-based elements you might choose to include.
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We map your story, symptoms, strengths, and goals. We identify target memories (or themes) that keep looping.
Faith-integrated option: You can share how your faith has helped or been challenged. We note any spiritual injuries, legalistic messages, or church-related wounds that need care.
2) Preparation
We build skills for safety and regulation: deep breathing, grounding, parts-of-self language (“younger me vs. present me”), and a “calm place” visualization. We practice BLS in order for your body to get used to it.
Faith-integrated option: Your calm place can include sacred imagery (e.g., sitting by still waters with the Good Shepherd). We may craft a brief prayer or verse you can use between sets (e.g., Psalm 23, Isaiah 41:10).
3) Assessment
For each target memory, we identify:
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The worst snapshot of the memory
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Negative belief (e.g., “I’m not safe,” “It was my fault,” “I’m unlovable”)
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Desired positive belief (e.g., “I am safe now,” “It wasn’t my fault,” “I am loved”)
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Emotions and body sensations
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Baseline distress level (SUD: Subjective Units of Distress)
Faith-integrated option: We choose a positive belief that aligns with your faith (e.g., “I am God’s beloved,” “God protects me,” “My worth is given by God, not earned”).
4) Desensitization
You focus on the memory while we run sets of BLS (eye movements/taps/tones). After each set, you briefly notice whatever comes up—images, feelings, thoughts—without analyzing. Your brain does the heavy lifting, moving toward integration.
Faith-integrated option: If you wish, we may invite a brief centering prayer before we begin (“Lord, be near”) and use a short verse or lyric between sets to steady your heart. The therapist carefully avoids spiritual bypassing; we make space for lament and truth.
5) Installation
We strengthen the chosen positive cognition until it feels true in your body (measured by VOC: Validity of Cognition).
Faith-integrated option: We connect the new belief to your identity in Christ (e.g., “I am beloved and safe with God”). This isn’t about forcing belief; it’s about letting truth land where trauma once spoke loudly.
6) Body Scan
With eyes closed, you scan head-to-toe for lingering tension. If anything is “stuck,” we use brief BLS to clear it.
Faith-integrated option: A gentle breath prayer (“Inhale: I am held… Exhale: I am safe.”)
7) Closure
We ensure you leave sessions grounded. You’ll get homework like journaling, light movement, hydration, and using your calm/prayer resources.
Faith-integrated option: A short thank-you prayer if desired.
8) Reevaluation
At the next session, we check the original target. Distress is often much lower. If triggers remain, we keep working until the memory is fully reprocessed, then move on to related memories.
Ready to start your EMDR journey?
- Schedule an appointment – Begin your pre-registration and schedule an appointment using our client portal. Make sure to select Karianys Clemente, MS —our dedicated Faith-Based EMDR Therapist.
- Meet Your Therapist – Once you schedule your appointment, you will meet your therapist for your initial session.
- Begin Your Personalized Treatment Plan – Build focus and resilience with weekly support.
Meet Karianys Clemente, MS — Our dedicated Faith-Based EMDR Therapist
I am a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (#IMH25875) with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a concentration in Play Therapy from Palm Beach Atlantic University in Orlando. I use Play Therapy with clients of all ages to help them express unspoken emotions and integrate EMDR to treat PTSD and trauma-related concerns. Under the supervision of Lillianis J. Cruz, LMHC (#MH14082), I use Adlerian and Adlerian Play Therapy while adapting approaches to fit each client’s needs. Fluent in English and Spanish, my goal is to provide a safe space for clients to explore past experiences and build confidence.
Ready to begin your healing journey? Whether through Play Therapy, EMDR, or personalized approaches, I’m here to help you explore emotions, process trauma, and build confidence in a safe and supportive space.
Author
- Written by Lillianis Cruz, LMHC, EMDR-trained, licensed in Florida.
- Medical Review Note: Reviewed for clinical accuracy.
- Last Updated: 10/22/2025