Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
(EMDR)
This is a powerful, evidence-based therapy that helps the brain reprocess and heal from distressing memories, limiting beliefs, and emotional blocks.
Originally developed for trauma, EMDR is now widely used for a variety of challenges—from healing the past to optimizing present performance.
FAQs about EMDR
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EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) uses bilateral stimulation such as guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones to help the brain reprocess memories, emotions, and beliefs that may be "stuck" or unhealed.
It’s like helping the brain finish processing past experiences so they no longer trigger distress. As these memories are integrated, individuals often experience emotional relief, clearer thinking, and new, healthier perspectives, supporting both healing and improved performance.
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Benefits of EMDR
EMDR can be a powerful tool for both healing and personal growth. It supports individuals in releasing emotional pain and enhancing performance by addressing unprocessed experiences and limiting beliefs.
Emotional Healing
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and trauma
Anxiety and panic attacks
Depression and persistent low mood
Grief and unresolved loss
Self-worth and identity issues
Performance Enhancement
Performance anxiety in work, sports, or creative pursuits
Fear of failure or perfectionism
Negative self-talk and inner criticism
Recovering from setbacks, injuries, or burnout
Building confidence and mental clarity
Achieving and sustaining a “flow” state
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Yes, when conducted by a trained therapist, EMDR is safe and effective. Some sessions may feel intense as emotions come up, but your therapist will always ensure you feel grounded, supported, and in control throughout the process.
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You can schedule a session or consultation with one of our trained EMDR therapists. We’re here to answer your questions and support you in moving toward healing.
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Here are some trusted resources:
EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) – for research, practitioner info, and general EMDR education
EMDR for Kids – a family-friendly site to help children and parents understand how EMDR can help young clients
EMDR Resources
Sports and Performance EMDR
Sports EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful, research-backed therapeutic approach most commonly known for treating trauma. Amanda Bradley brings this innovative method to the world of athletics and performance, using it to help individuals unlock their full potential.
Specializing in EMDR for performance enhancement, Amanda works with athletes and performers to sharpen focus, boost confidence, and strengthen mental resilience. Whether it’s overcoming mental blocks, managing competition anxiety, or stepping into peak performance mode, EMDR can be a game-changing tool for reaching new levels of success.
FAQs
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Overcoming Mental Blocks: EMDR addresses deep-rooted beliefs, negative self-talk, and emotional barriers that hinder an athlete’s or performers performance. By reprocessing these obstacles, EMDR helps athletes and performers overcome mental blocks, enabling them to perform at their peak potential.
Enhancing Focus and Concentration: Through the bilateral stimulation used in EMDR, athletes and performers learn to enhance their focus and concentration skills. This promotes the ability to maintain high performance even under pressure, leading to consistent and improved results.
Reducing Performance Anxiety: Many athletes and performers struggle with performance anxiety, which can negatively impact their performance. EMDR helps identify and reprocess the underlying causes of anxiety, allowing athletes to develop better coping techniques and robust mental resilience.
Building Confidence and Self-Efficacy: EMDR allows athletes and performers to reprocess past failures, trauma, or negative experiences that may undermine their confidence. By reprogramming these memories, EMDR helps build a solid foundation of belief in oneself, enhancing overall self-efficacy and future success on and off the field or stage.
EMDR has become a game-changer in the field of sports and performance enhancement, offering athletes and performers a unique approach to overcome obstacles, improve focus, and excel in their chosen disciplines. As a passionate EMDR clinician, Amanda takes pride in helping athletes and performers harness their true potential and achieve peak performance. Join us on this incredible journey of self-discovery and transformation, where the power of EMDR propels athletes and performers toward excellence.
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Whether you’re gearing up for a big game, stepping onto the stage, or entering a high-stakes competition, your mindset can make all the difference. EMDR can help you:
Release performance anxiety and fear of failure
Transform limiting beliefs and quiet the inner critic
Sharpen mental focus and access a flow state
Reprocess past negative experiences — from missed opportunities to injuries or harsh criticism
Build and strengthen empowering mental imagery and unshakable confidence
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Competitive athletes — from rising stars to seasoned professionals
Musicians, dancers, and stage performers aiming for peak expression
Public speakers, leaders, and high-achieving professionals
Anyone who wants to step into the spotlight with confidence, clarity, and focus
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Amanda partners with you to pinpoint specific performance challenges, past experiences, or mental blocks that may be holding you back. Using bilateral stimulation, EMDR gently guides your brain to reprocess these stuck patterns, releasing their hold and making space for confident, focused, and empowered performance.
You don’t have to be struggling to benefit, EMDR can also enhance what’s already working and take your performance to the next level.
Sports and Performance EMDR Resources
Ready to Step Into Your Zone of Genius?
Reach out today to learn more about how EMDR can help you reach your peak performance goals.
Meet Amanda Bradley, MS, LPCC
Amanda has been a lifelong sports enthusiast and competitor. As a former collegiate golfer at the University of Toledo, she knows firsthand the pressure that comes with high-level performance and the toll that performance anxiety and inner negative self-talk can take. Today, she channels that experience and passion into helping athletes, performers, and high-achieving professionals break through mental barriers, sharpen their mindset, and achieve their peak potential.

