BCHC Helps Patients Break Free from the Weight of Trauma

By: Aprill Murphy

ALBION, Nebraska (Sept 3, 2025) – Boone County Health Center now has three therapists trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), offering more patients access to this highly researched therapy proven to help people recover from trauma, anxiety, depression, and other distressing experiences.

Behavioral Health Therapists Kayla Baker, LIMHP, LPC, LADC and Emi Brugger, LMHP, LPC recently completed EMDR training, joining Melissa Griffin, LIMHP, LADC, who has already been providing this therapy at BCHC.

EMDR works by using guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess painful or overwhelming memories. This process allows people to reduce the distress connected to those memories and move forward with greater confidence and peace.

“Within the training itself, we utilized the techniques with one another to practice over the course of two intense weekends, so I can speak from a client and therapist perspective to say, it works,” said Behavioral Health Director Baker.

Patients who experience flashbacks, nightmares, negative self-beliefs, or a sense of being “stuck” after stressful life events may benefit from EMDR. While best known for treating trauma and PTSD, it has also been shown to help with everyday issues like stress, performance anxiety, or feelings of low self-worth.

“I’m grateful to have another modality to help clients address trauma and find relief from the weight of stressful life events,” said Brugger.

By expanding access to EMDR, Boone County Health Center continues its commitment to bringing advanced, evidence-based care to patients in the region. Those who would like to learn more about EMDR can visit emdria.org for trusted information.

Appointments with BCHC’s Behavioral Health team are available by calling 402-395-3247.