Healing Substance Use Disorder with EMDR Therapy

For many individuals struggling with substance use, the urge to drink or use doesn’t always stem from the present moment—it often traces back to unresolved pain or trauma from the past. Cravings can be a way the body and brain seek relief from overwhelming emotions or memories stored deep in the nervous system. Fortunately, EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful, evidence-based approach that can help reduce the internal distress that often leads to substance use or relapse.

What is EMDR? EMDR is a structured therapy that helps people process and heal from traumatic memories or distressing life experiences. It works by stimulating both sides of the brain—often through guided eye movements—while a person recalls a targeted memory. This allows the brain to reprocess and “unfreeze” memories that have been stuck in the nervous system, so they no longer trigger intense emotional or physical reactions.

How EMDR Helps with Substance Use Disorder Many people with substance use disorder carry trauma or emotional wounds that may not be fully conscious but are still active in the body and mind. These unprocessed memories can cause sudden emotional discomfort, self-doubt, shame, or physical unease—often leading to cravings or relapse. EMDR targets these root issues by lowering the emotional charge behind specific memories or beliefs that drive substance use.

Clients often notice:

• Decreased intensity of cravings and urges

• Greater emotional regulation and ability to cope without using

• Relief from somatic symptoms like tension, panic, or pain

• More clarity and confidence in staying clean and sober

• Increased self-worth and reduced shame or guilt

  
  

In my private practice, I use EMDR to treat individuals with co-occurring substance use disorder, trauma and mental health issues. Clients who’ve struggled for years often report significant relief and progress within just a few sessions. Helping clients lower their urge to use substances increases their ability to have sustained long-term recovery.

Anne Grisham-Pleas, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Substance Use Disorder Professional, EMDR therapist and certified trauma therapist in private practice in Shoreline and Edmonds. I’ve worked in the fields of substance use and mental health for over 34 years. I hold a BA in Psychology and a Certificate in Addiction Studies (Seattle University, 1991), and a Master’s in Counseling (Seattle University, 1998).