Trauma and EMDR Therapy

Beyond Surviving: A Path to Healing from Trauma with EMDR

Trauma doesn’t just live in our memories; it lives in our bodies. It’s the way your heart races for “no reason,” the difficulty you have trusting others, or the way the world suddenly feels like an unsafe place. If you feel like you’ve been living in “survival mode,” we want you to know that your nervous system is doing exactly what it was designed to do: protect you.

But you don’t have to stay stuck in the past. At Console Counseling, we provide a safe harbor where you can move beyond survival and back toward a life of connection and peace.

Understanding the "Why" Behind the "What"

Often, we blame ourselves for our reactions. We think, “Why can’t I just get over this?” In our sessions, we shift the focus from “what is wrong with you” to “what happened to you.”

Healing from trauma is a delicate process that requires a deep sense of safety. We move at a pace that honors your comfort level, ensuring you never feel rushed or pressured to share more than you’re ready for. Our approach is collaborative; we are partners in your healing, walking alongside you as you rediscover your own strength.

What is EMDR?

Sometimes, traditional talk therapy can only go so far because trauma is stored in a part of the brain that words can’t always reach. That’s why we offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).

Think of EMDR as a way to “digest” painful memories that have been stuck. It helps your brain process these experiences so they finally feel like they belong in the past, rather than intruding on your present. When combined with mindfulness and grounding techniques, EMDR allows you to process even the most difficult experiences without feeling overwhelmed or “re-traumatized.”

Healing for Individuals and Families

Trauma impacts everyone differently, and it often ripples through our relationships. Our team is equipped to support:

Adults who are tired of carrying the weight of the past.
Couples whose shared or individual traumas are creating distance and misunderstanding.

Children and Teens who need a gentle, play-based or creative way to process big feelings and scary events.

A Sacred Space for Your Recovery

We believe that every person’s path to recovery is unique. Whether you join us in person in Grand Rapids or prefer the comfort of virtual therapy from your home in Michigan, you will find a team that is LGBTQ+ affirming, culturally humble, spiritually sensitive, and deeply committed to your well-being.

You’ve been carrying this weight for long enough. When you’re ready to lay it down, we are here to help you find your way home to yourself.