102: Why EMDR Is “Dangerous” — and Why That’s a Good Thing [Why Women Go To Therapy Series]
On the Zero Disturbance Podcast, in this episode of our Why Women Go to Therapy series, we’re diving into a topic that’s close to my heart — and one that might ruffle a few feathers: Why EMDR is dangerous.
Now before you panic, we’re not saying EMDR is harmful — quite the opposite. EMDR is dangerous because it works. It’s powerful. It has the ability to align you with your positive beliefs of self, and when that happens, everything around you begins to shift. Your relationships, your job, your choices, your entire system — they all get shaken up. And that can feel really unsettling… but it’s also where true healing begins.
Let’s talk about how EMDR contains a value system, even if it’s not named as such — a system rooted in beliefs like “I am safe,” “I have choices,” “I am worthy.” These aren’t just affirmations — they become embodied truths through the process. And as women, we’ve been conditioned to live disconnected from those truths.
We also touch on real-world reasons why EMDR can be considered “dangerous” in our society:
- Women in legal proceedings (like assault cases) are often told not to fully heal so they can appear more “credible” in court.
- Clinicians are sometimes told to avoid EMDR with clients who dissociate — even though dissociation is often happening anyway.
- Pregnant women are discouraged from doing EMDR, as if their healing is somehow risky — when in fact, it's often exactly what they need most.
But the biggest danger? The most exciting one?
It’s that EMDR gives women clarity.
Clarity that they are powerful. That they are enough. That they don’t have to stay in systems that don't serve them. And once you have that kind of clarity, you can’t unsee it. You start living differently — and that can feel disruptive, even terrifying. But it’s also liberating.
We wrap up with a few powerful reflection questions Kambria loves to ask herself and her clients:
- Am I making this choice from a positive belief of self?
- Why not? (to check for internalized programming)
- Why is this right on time? (to reclaim power in difficult moments)
This episode is for clinicians, for women in therapy, and for anyone ready to see themselves clearly and step fully into their self-led energy. 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.
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.
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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.
