Case Study: Resolving Complex Trauma with EMDR Therapy
Clinical Focus: Adult PTSD, Chronic Anxiety, and Negative Self-Beliefs
Service Areas: Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Fort Myers, & Statewide Telehealth
The Presentation: Living in a State of Survival
"Maria," a 42-year-old professional, sought services at Dandelion Therapy Group for what she described as "relentless anxiety" and a "constant feeling of being on edge." Though she had not experienced a singular catastrophic event, she suffered from Complex Trauma—the result of years of emotional neglect and unpredictable family dynamics during her formative years.
Maria’s baseline symptoms included:
Hyper-vigilance: A persistent "fight or flight" response, even in safe environments.
Somatic Distress: Frequent tension headaches and chest tightness.
Cognitive Distortions: A core belief of "I am fundamentally not enough," which led to self-sabotage and social withdrawal.
The Clinical Approach: The 8-Phase EMDR Model
Our EMDR-trained specialists developed a treatment plan based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model. The goal was to help Maria’s brain move "stuck" memories into a functional state where they no longer triggered a physiological response.
The journey followed these critical stages:
Preparation & Resourcing: Before addressing the trauma, we focused on "Resource Development." Maria learned grounding techniques and established a "Safe/Calm Place," a mental anchor used to regulate her nervous system.
Assessment: We identified "target memories"—specific moments from her childhood that fueled her feelings of worthlessness.
Desensitization (Bilateral Stimulation): Using rhythmic eye movements, we stimulated the brain’s natural healing process. As Maria focused on the distressing memories, the Bilateral Stimulation helped reduce the vividness and emotional charge of the images.
Installation: Once the distress was neutralized, we worked to "install" a positive belief. Maria shifted from feeling "I am powerless" to the adaptive realization: "I am a resilient adult who can handle my life."
The Transformation: From Survival to Flourishing
By the end of the treatment, the transformation was evident in Maria’s daily life. While she still encountered stress, her body no longer reacted as if it were in immediate danger.
Observed Outcomes:
Physiological Calm: Maria reported a significant reduction in panic symptoms and a decrease in tension-related headaches.
Emotional Regulation: She gained the ability to pause and respond to life’s stressors rather than reacting impulsively.
Relational Growth: By healing her core beliefs, she felt empowered to set healthy boundaries and reconnect with her community.
About Our Trauma Services
At Dandelion Therapy Group, we provide specialized trauma care both in-person and virtually. Whether you visit our offices in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, or Fort Myers, or meet with us via Statewide Telehealth, our mission is to provide the same high-quality, evidence-based healing across all of Florida.
Start Your Healing Journey Today
Whether you prefer to meet in person at our Southwest Florida offices or via secure telehealth from anywhere in the state, our team is ready to support you. Reclaiming your life from trauma starts with a single step.
Clinical Disclaimer
This case study is a fictional composite designed to illustrate the therapeutic process and common outcomes at Dandelion Therapy Group. It does not represent any specific individual. All names, identifying details, and life circumstances have been changed to protect the privacy and confidentiality of our clients, in accordance with HIPAA standards and professional ethics.