It Was Abuse. It Was Real. And You Deserve to Heal
EMDR Therapy for Narcissistic Abuse Recovery in TX, AZ, VA, FL, SC
Hi there, I want you to know you’re not alone in what you’re feeling or facing. Whether your are a survivor of trauma and/or a survivor of abusive relationships, EMDR can help. Surviving an abusive relationship is an incredibly challenging experience, and just reaching this page shows your strength. You might feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward—but together, we can take steps toward healing.
Maybe you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). You might notice difficulty trusting others, feel distant or disconnected, or question your own worth and decisions. Some days, it might be hard to do even the simplest tasks because of exhaustion or sadness that won’t go away. Memories of what you’ve been through might feel constant or inescapable, leaving you stuck in cycles of fear or self-blame. You might even feel pressured by others to make decisions you’re not ready for, which only adds to the overwhelm.
If any of this resonates, I want you to know that what you’re feeling makes sense. Healing from an abusive relationship is not linear, and you don’t need to have all the answers right now. My role is to provide a compassionate, judgment-free space where you can begin to untangle the pain and confusion and start reclaiming your sense of self.
A Safe Space to Heal
I specialize in helping survivors of abusive relationships feel seen, heard, and supported. My approach is trauma-focused, which means we’ll move at your pace, focusing on what feels safe and right for you. Whether it’s processing what happened, rebuilding your sense of trust, or navigating life’s next steps, we’ll work together to help you gain clarity, confidence, and emotional resilience.
This is your space to heal without pressure or judgment. Your choices, boundaries, and emotions will always be respected as we address areas like anxiety, lingering sadness, or the inner critic that may leave you feeling stuck. Healing is possible, even if it feels far away right now.
If desired, I can work from a Christian perspective, thoughtfully incorporating Biblical principles into our sessions. At the same time, I welcome clients of all belief systems, political views, and perspectives, and aim to meet you where you are. My goal is always to honor and respect your values, creating an environment where your voice is heard and your experiences are validated.
I utilize EMDR for processing trauma and healing. I also offer EMDR intensives as clinically appropriate. We can discuss these in further detail during our initial call or first session.
Was It Abuse?
It’s normal to question whether your experience was “bad enough” to count as abuse. Sometimes the signs aren’t as easy to recognize, but that doesn’t make them any less valid. Abuse can take many forms, and it often doesn’t start with physical violence. It might involve manipulative tactics like gaslighting, where you’re made to feel unsure of your reality or experiences. You may have been subjected to narcissistic abuse, where your emotions were invalidated, or you were constantly blamed and criticized.
Perhaps you were controlled in subtle ways, such as isolation from loved ones or having your choices limited. These patterns, often rooted in power and control, can create deep emotional wounds that leave you doubting yourself long after the relationship ends. If you’re struggling to put a name to your experience, that’s okay. Understanding these dynamics takes time, and we can work through them together.
For additional clarity, I’ve created a free resource to help you explore and identify these patterns. If you’re wondering whether what you’ve been through qualifies as abuse, I invite you to download the Types of Abuse Worksheet. It’s a supportive tool to help you reflect and bring greater understanding to your experience.
You Are Stronger Than You Think
It’s okay to feel uncertain or a little nervous about starting therapy. Many of the survivors I’ve worked with felt the same way at first. Over time, they shifted from feelings of fear and self-doubt to a place of empowerment, strength, and healing. You’ve already shown courage by recognizing that you deserve something better. Taking this next step could be another powerful moment in your healing.
Take the First Step
You don’t have to do this alone. If you’re ready to explore therapy and see how I can support you, I’d love to chat in a 15-minute introductory call. This is a chance to ask questions, get a feel for how I work, and determine if we’re a good fit.
Feeling ready to start your healing process now? You can also schedule your first session today, and we can begin this important work together.
Schedule a 15-minute Introductory Call
It’s brave to take that first step, and I’m so glad you’re here. You deserve to feel safe, whole, and empowered. Let’s take this next step together.
Ready to get started?
Click below to schedule a free consultation to get started. I look forward to working with you!
Frequently Asked Questions: EMDR Therapy for Narcissistic Abuse Recovery in Texas, Arizona, Virginia, Florida, and South Carolina
What is EMDR therapy, and how can it help with narcissistic abuse recovery?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based trauma therapy that helps the brain process painful experiences without becoming overwhelmed. For survivors of narcissistic or emotional abuse, EMDR can help:
-
Reduce triggers, flashbacks, and self-blame
-
Rebuild self-worth and confidence
-
Lessen anxiety, depression, and trauma symptoms
-
Restore a sense of calm, clarity, and control
How is EMDR different from traditional talk therapy?
Unlike talk therapy, EMDR focuses on the body’s natural ability to heal from trauma. It uses bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements or tapping) to help reprocess distressing memories and release their emotional intensity. Clients often notice that memories lose their charge and feel less painful over time.
Can EMDR help if I’m still in contact with my abuser?
Yes, though we begin with stabilization and safety planning first. You will learn coping strategies and grounding tools before processing trauma memories. EMDR can help you strengthen boundaries, improve emotional regulation, and respond with clarity rather than fear.
What if I’m not sure it was abuse?
That’s completely okay. Many survivors of narcissistic abuse question their experiences because gaslighting and emotional manipulation create confusion. Therapy is a safe space to explore what happened and begin to understand it without judgment. You can also download the free Types of Abuse Worksheet for additional insight.
Where do you provide EMDR therapy?
I offer secure, online EMDR therapy sessions for clients in:
-
Texas: Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and throughout the state
-
Arizona: Phoenix, Tucson, Scottsdale, and anywhere in Arizona
-
Virginia: Richmond, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and across Virginia
-
Florida: Tampa, Orlando, Miami, Jacksonville, and all of Florida
-
South Carolina: Columbia, Charleston, Greenville, and statewide in South Carolina
How long does EMDR therapy take?
Each person’s healing journey is unique. Some clients experience significant relief within a few months, while others benefit from longer-term support. We’ll check in regularly to ensure your therapy goals and pace feel right for you.
Can EMDR be done online?
Yes. EMDR can be provided effectively and safely through a HIPAA-compliant Telehealth platform. Online sessions allow you to engage in therapy from the comfort and privacy of your home.
What are EMDR intensives, and how do they work?
EMDR Intensives are extended sessions (3–4 hours per day for 2–3 days) that allow for deeper, faster healing. They can be helpful for clients who want to focus intensively on trauma recovery or who feel “stuck” in traditional weekly sessions.
Can EMDR therapy include faith-based or Christian principles?
Yes. If desired, I can incorporate Biblical principles and faith-based support into EMDR therapy while maintaining a trauma-informed, evidence-based approach. I also welcome clients of all belief systems and meet you exactly where you are.
How can I prepare for EMDR therapy?
Before we begin, we’ll discuss your goals, history, and support system. You’ll learn grounding tools, self-soothing skills, and ways to manage emotions between sessions. Preparation helps you feel empowered and ready for the healing process.
How do I know if EMDR is right for me?
You may be a good fit if you:
-
Have experienced narcissistic, emotional, or relational abuse
-
Feel stuck, triggered, or unable to move forward
-
Want to release the emotional intensity of past experiences
-
Are ready to heal in a safe, structured, and supportive space
How can I take time off work or school for an EMDR Therapy Intensive?
Many clients use personal days, vacation time, or FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act) leave to attend therapy or intensives. Some choose weekend sessions for added flexibility. Healing is a meaningful investment in yourself — and worth the time it takes to feel whole again.
What is EMDR therapy for narcissistic abuse?
EMDR therapy helps survivors of narcissistic abuse process trauma, rebuild confidence, and reduce triggers by using eye movements or tapping to safely reprocess painful experiences.
Where is EMDR therapy for narcissistic abuse available?
Catrina Drinning-Davis, LPC-S, provides online EMDR therapy for survivors in Texas, Arizona, Virginia, Florida, and South Carolina.
Can EMDR therapy help with PTSD and trauma from emotional abuse?
Yes. EMDR is an evidence-based treatment that reduces symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression caused by narcissistic or emotional abuse.
Are EMDR sessions covered by insurance?
Please contact me to verify whether your insurance plan is accepted. The private pay rate is $150 per 55-minute session. EMDR Intensives are not covered by insurance.
How do I schedule a session or consultation?
You can schedule a free 15-minute consultation to ask questions, discuss your goals, and see if EMDR therapy feels right for you. You can also book your first session online to begin your healing journey.
What if I can’t afford therapy right now or it doesn’t feel safe to start?
If beginning therapy doesn’t feel financially or emotionally possible right now, you can still start your healing journey at your own pace. I created a supportive, trauma-informed workbook called Reclaiming Strength: A Relationship Abuse Survivors Workbook to help survivors begin processing and rebuilding from home.
This workbook offers:
-
Guided reflections to help you understand and name patterns of abuse
-
Exercises for grounding, emotional regulation, and self-compassion
-
Tools to rebuild confidence, boundaries, and trust in yourself
-
Practical steps for moving toward healing safely and at your own pace
Even small steps toward recovery matter. Working through Reclaiming Strength can help you feel more prepared and supported when you’re ready to begin therapy.