Reality TV doesn’t always portray therapy accurately (see my previous blog about SLOMW), but the recent therapy session on Real Housewives of Salt Lake City (RHOSLC) with Ms. I have an announcement aka Britani Bateman and her daughter surprised many viewers—and many trauma therapists—by showing what real trauma therapy can actually look like.

Reality TV loves a dramatic therapy moment—but EMDR (and therapy) is not drama. It’s neuroscience, structure, pacing, dual awareness, safety, and a carefully attuned therapeutic relationship. Unfortunately, the EMDR session shown on Secret Lives of Mormon Wives has sparked confusion among viewers, therapists, and potential clients who are trying to understand what EMDR actually is.

As an EMDR therapist trained in trauma, dissociation, and nervous system–based work, I want to clarify why the session featured on the show is not representative of EMDR practice—and what ethical, trauma-informed EMDR really involves.

Discover how small wins in trauma therapy can lead to lasting healing. Learn why recognizing tiny steps is crucial in recovering from trauma—and how to celebrate them.

Dissociation is a term you may have heard in conversations about trauma or mental health, but it can feel elusive or hard to describe. At its core, dissociation is a psychological response to overwhelming stress or trauma—an adaptive mechanism that allows a person to “disconnect” from experiences, emotions, or memories that feel too painful to process in the moment. While it can protect you in the short term, chronic dissociation can interfere with your ability to feel present, connect with others, and live fully in your body.

Think trauma therapy is only for trauma survivors? Learn why working with a trauma-informed therapist can benefit anyone—especially if you're dealing with anxiety, boundaries, or relationship issues.

In our hustle culture and mental toughness era, being told you're “strong” might feel like the highest compliment. As a therapist, though, I often see the hidden pressure behind that word. The truth is, being strong all the time isn’t sustainable, and constantly striving for it can quietly erode your emotional well-being. It’s ok to not be ok. Being strong doesn’t mean you can’t express your feelings. Have a soft heart and a strong back. 

Mental health affects people of all ages, including children and teens. Many parents feel uncertain about how to start conversations about mental health struggles. Whether your child is experiencing anxiety, depression, or simply having a tough time, open, compassionate discussions are key to building emotional intelligence, resilience and a strong support system at home. Here’s how to approach these topics with your kids.

People-pleasing is a common coping skill among individuals that have experienced trauma. Learn more about this coping skill and how it is developed as a result of trauma.