EMDR therapists can celebrate Black History Month by learning about the challenges that different Black/African American individuals and communities might bring to therapy.
We asked EMDRIA members for video or written responses to the following:
“How have you used EMDR therapy to reprocess some of the challenges faced by the Black/African-American community?”
NOTE: Play the video and click on the ‘CC’ icon in the lower right-hand corner for closed captioning on the videos.
***Amber Creamer, LPCC, LMFT, LPC
*** Jessica Crunkleton, LMFT, LCPC, LPC, LMHC
*** Ava Hart, LCSW
I use EMDR in a group setting with Black women. The approach I use named Trauma Bonded Sistas (TBS) is a justice-based approach to health and healthcare, specifically targeted to engage Black women in discussing the historical context of race-based trauma and its impact. This is an approach, not something to be purchased, all participants attend for free, and all guest speakers are compensated.
Some highlights of the TBS approach:
- Culturally-specific program for African American women
- Combines EMDR with group therapy and education
- Addresses both individual and collective trauma
Key features of the program:
- Focus on the historical context of trauma
- Exploration of the ‘Strong Black Woman’ schema
- Incorporation of ancestral wisdom and resources
- Use of group EMDR protocol
- Emphasis on building healthy bonds between participants
“I’ve used EMDR therapy to help Black and African American clients reprocess the emotional toll of racism, from microaggressions to systemic oppression. One client carried the belief “I’m not enough” after years of being overlooked for promotions. Using EMDR, we targeted memories tied to those experiences, reduced the emotional charge, and reframed their self-perception to “I am capable and deserving.” Resourcing was key, with culturally meaningful practices like visualizing supportive ancestors or grounding in affirmations of identity. EMDR empowers clients to heal, reclaim their strength, and navigate challenges with confidence.”
“At A Resilient You Counseling, I use EMDR therapy to help Black/African-American clients reprocess the unique challenges tied to generational trauma, systemic racism, and stigmas around mental health—especially within faith-based communities. Partnering with churches, I work to shift perceptions by integrating EMDR with spiritual values, emphasizing that seeking mental health support aligns with healing and restoration taught in scripture.
Through EMDR, clients can reprocess painful memories of discrimination or exclusion and replace negative beliefs like “I am broken” with affirmations such as “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” I also incorporate culturally relevant Safe/Calm Place exercises, encouraging clients to envision spiritual or ancestral connections, such as prayer or reflections on their faith journey.
This approach not only promotes healing but also empowers clients to embrace both their cultural and spiritual identities. By working with churches, I aim to create a supportive environment where mental health is seen as an integral part of holistic well-being, breaking cycles of stigma and fostering resilience.”
*** Dr. Deidra Alexander Sorrell, Ed.D., LCPC
“I have had several cases with my black clients involving both the difficulties in navigating past sexual or emotional abuse which also encompassed racial trauma. Those are the more complex cases due to the client experiencing multiple layers of various types of trauma. EMDR therapy has proven to be a very successful tool in providing supports through assisting the client in developing extensive resources to better manage their self-image while navigating the world around them.”
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Additional Resources
If you are a therapist interested in the EMDR training:
- Learn more about EMDR therapy at the EMDRIA Library
- Learn more about EMDR Training
- Search for an EMDR Training Provider
- Check out our EMDR Training FAQ
If you are EMDR trained:
- Check out the EMDRIA Let’s Talk EMDR Podcast
- Check out the EMDRIA Focal Point Blog
- Learn more about EMDRIA membership
- Search for EMDR Continuing Education opportunities
If you are an EMDRIA™ Member:
Date
February 14, 2025
Topics
Racial Trauma
Client Population
Racial/Cultural/Ethnic Groups
Practice & Methods
DEI/IDEA
