EMDR for Grief
in Seattle, Washington State, Tacoma, Everett, Bellingham, Spokane, Vancouver.
When Grief Feels Stuck
Most people think of grief as something that naturally gets easier with time.
While grief often changes over time, some losses carry traumatic elements that make healing much more difficult. You may find yourself replaying painful memories, reliving the moment you received difficult news, struggling with images from a loved one's illness, or feeling overwhelmed whenever you're reminded of what happened.
When grief becomes intertwined with trauma, EMDR therapy can help.
What Is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help the brain process distressing experiences.
EMDR does not erase memories or make you forget someone you love.
Instead, it helps reduce the emotional intensity associated with painful memories so they no longer feel as overwhelming.
Many clients describe the experience as finally being able to remember without feeling emotionally hijacked.
How EMDR Can Help With Grief
EMDR may be particularly helpful when grief involves:
Sudden loss
Traumatic loss
Medical trauma
Hospice experiences
Witnessing a loved one's suffering
Guilt or regret
Distressing final memories
Intrusive images or flashbacks
Common Signs EMDR May Help
You replay certain memories repeatedly
Specific memories feel unbearable
You avoid reminders of the loss
You feel emotionally stuck
You experience panic, anxiety, or flashbacks
You struggle with guilt or "what if" thoughts
My Approach to EMDR and Grief
I typically approach grief work in three phases:
Emotional Stabilization
Building skills to manage difficult emotions and increase a sense of safety.
Processing the Loss
Using EMDR and other approaches to help process painful memories and experiences.
Rebuilding for the Future
Exploring identity, purpose, relationships, and what life looks like moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will EMDR make me forget my loved one?
No. EMDR helps process distressing memories while preserving meaningful memories and connections.
Is EMDR only for trauma?
No. While EMDR is widely known for trauma treatment, it can also be highly effective for grief, loss, and major life transitions.
Do I have to talk about every detail?
No. EMDR often requires less detailed discussion than traditional talk therapy.
Why Work With Jordan Crosby, LMFT?
I've been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for over seven years and have spent my career helping people navigate difficult emotions, major life transitions, and periods of profound change.
I believe therapy should be both compassionate and practical. My style is warm, engaging, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based treatment. I enjoy helping people better understand themselves, strengthen their relationships, build emotional resilience, and create meaningful futures.
In addition to my work as a therapist, I am a Certified Career Coach and previously worked in higher education. For more than a decade, I have helped individuals navigate transitions involving identity, purpose, education, work, relationships, and personal growth.
I am committed to providing affirming, inclusive care for people of all genders, sexual orientations, races, ethnicities, religions, abilities, and backgrounds.
Schedule a Free Consultation
You don't have to carry this alone.
If you're looking for grief therapy in Seattle or anywhere in Washington State, I'd be honored to learn more about your story and discuss how therapy may help.