EMDR Therapy for Childhood and
Relational Trauma in Los Angeles
(Attachment-Focused EMDR / AF-EMDR)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy that helps people process distressing memories and experiences. At Spoken in Los Angeles, we use Attachment-Focused EMDR (AF-EMDR), an approach that integrates EMDR with attachment theory to address childhood trauma, relational trauma, and attachment wounds.
Early experiences of emotional neglect, inconsistent caregiving, or relationships that felt unsafe can shape how we relate to others—and ourselves—long into adulthood. Anxiety, chronic self-doubt, difficulty trusting others, and recurring relationship struggles can sometimes reflect these early attachment patterns.
AF-EMDR combines structured trauma processing with attention to emotional safety, regulation, and the therapeutic relationship. The goal is not simply to manage symptoms, but to help people work through underlying experiences and develop healthier ways of relating to themselves and others.
The Butterfly Hug and
Nervous System Regulation
Elizabeth Hill, MA, LMFT, founder of Spoken, incorporates bilateral stimulation techniques such as the “Butterfly Hug.” This self-administered technique involves crossing the arms over the chest and gently alternating taps on either side of the body, creating a movement reminiscent of butterfly wings.
The Butterfly Hug can help ease emotional distress and promote a sense of calm. When introduced by a trained therapist, it may also provide a useful self-soothing practice between sessions.
> How Attachment-Focused
EMDR Works
EMDR therapy uses bilateral stimulation (BLS) — guided eye movements, alternating sounds, or tactile tapping — while clients work with distressing memories in a structured therapeutic process. This can help memories become less emotionally overwhelming and easier to integrate.
Attachment-Focused EMDR builds on this approach by placing greater emphasis on early relationships, emotional safety, and the therapeutic connection. Preparation and stabilization are particularly important when working with childhood neglect, inconsistent caregiving, or relational trauma.
Rather than focusing solely on individual traumatic events, AF-EMDR also addresses patterns shaped by early attachment experiences—helping clients explore how the past may continue to influence their sense of safety, self-worth, and relationships today.
> Rebuilding Secure Attachment
Through Relationship
In Attachment-Focused EMDR, the therapeutic relationship is an important part of the healing process. Beyond reprocessing distressing memories, therapy offers an opportunity to experience safety, attunement, and trust in a supportive relationship.
Over time, these experiences may help clients develop a stronger sense of internal security, improve emotional regulation, and begin building healthier patterns of connection, both within and beyond the therapy room.
> Evidence of AF-EMDR’s Effectiveness
EMDR is widely recognized as an evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including by the World Health Organization and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Research has demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing PTSD symptoms and the distress associated with traumatic memories.
Attachment-Focused EMDR builds on this established approach by emphasizing early relational experiences, emotional regulation, and the therapeutic relationship. While research specifically evaluating AF-EMDR continues to develop, its approach may support improvements in:
- Emotional regulation
- Anxiety and distress associated with traumatic experiences
- Patterns of trust, connection, and relationships
By addressing both traumatic memories and the attachment experiences that may shape present-day relationships, AF-EMDR offers a path toward greater emotional security and healthier ways of relating to others.
> A Pathway Toward Healing and Wholeness
If you’re experiencing the lingering effects of childhood trauma, relationship instability, or chronic anxiety, EMDR therapy may offer a way to address underlying experiences — not just cope with symptoms.
The following Spoken therapists offer Attachment-Focused EMDR in Los Angeles. Explore their individual profiles to learn more about their backgrounds and approaches:
Frequently Asked Questions
About EMDR Therapy