114: EMDR Isn’t What You’ve Been Told: 7 Reasons to Be Hopeful [Why Women Go To Therapy Series]

In this episode of the Zero Disturbance Podcast, Kambria Evans explores seven powerful reasons EMDR therapy offers hope—especially for women—during times of collective trauma, oppression, and nervous system overwhelm. Drawing from neuroscience, the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, and years of clinical experience, Kambria dismantles outdated myths about EMDR being intense, retraumatizing, or purely trauma-focused.

This episode reframes EMDR as a choice-centered, body-based, brain-based therapy that prioritizes safety, clarity, and empowerment. Kambria explains how EMDR helps clients intentionally rewire unconscious beliefs, neutralize trauma without reliving it, and embody positive beliefs of self that were never allowed to fully develop.

Whether you’re considering EMDR, currently in therapy, or a clinician wanting a more ethical and flexible approach, this episode is a grounding reminder that healing does not require suffering.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• EMDR allows you to intentionally rewire what was unconsciously learned
• Trauma can be processed without retelling or reliving painful experiences
• EMDR does not have to start with the “worst” memory
• Positive targets and resourcing are essential, not optional
• The goal of EMDR is eliminating triggers—not managing them
• Neuroplasticity proves that nothing about you is permanent
• Your worst fears about yourself will not be confirmed through EMDR
  
  

🧠 Topics Covered

• Brain-based therapy & EMDR
• Trauma and the nervous system
• Adaptive Information Processing (AIP model)
• Neuroplasticity and healing
• Choice, control, and consent in therapy
• EMDR myths vs. reality
• Women, trauma, and clarity in distressing times

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional therapy. If you’re experiencing difficulties, please seek guidance from a licensed mental health provider. All stories, examples, and characters shared are fictionalized or composite representations. Any resemblance to actual persons or situations is purely coincidental and intended solely for educational illustration.

Come learn with us at Zero Disturbance: 

Want to learn more about empowering yourself to experience therapy or coaching on your terms? If you appreciated this episode, you wont want to miss out on The Client Workbook + supporting videos! https://www.zerodisturbance.com/client-workbook 

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Therapists, access our favorite free resources for designing high-value offers in The Zero Disturbance Welcome Bundle, 

https://www.zerodisturbance.com/free-resources  

With a Masters in Education from Vanderbilt, Kambria has been creating trainings and teaching adult learners for over 20 years. As the Director of Education and Quality Improvement at Stanford Medical School, she created ease in complex systems, thereby giving medical trainees successful learning experiences. Now, as a dedicated mom, therapist, and EMDR Consultant, Kambria knows what it means to do things efficiently, effectively, and in a learner-centered way. When she isn't podcasting or creating online courses, you can find Kambria playing with her twins on a beach in California.