Miley Cyrus Puts EMDR Therapy in the Spotlight: From Stage Fright to Trauma Healing

Recently, singer Miley Cyrus bravely shared her journey with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, shining a much-needed spotlight on this powerful therapeutic technique. As a therapist at LifeStance, I can personally say—thank you, Miley, for bringing attention to this wonderful healing platform.

Miley openly discussed how EMDR helped her overcome severe stage fright, stating openly that it ‘saved her life’ and beautifully describing the therapy as “like watching a grounded movie in your mind.”

At LifeStance, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in individuals reaching out, eager to learn more about EMDR therapy after hearing about Miley’s positive experience, and indeed, her depiction closely matches what many of our clients express after their EMDR sessions.

What is EMDR Therapy?

Rather than diving into the specifics of how EMDR therapy works, I’d like to recommend our EMDR therapy page. This page provides detailed information on EMDR therapy, including what it is, its potential benefits, who it can help, how the therapy works, what happens during a session, how long it typically takes to see results, the eight phases of EMDR, and how it differs from other therapies. Additionally, we’ve written numerous, insightful blog posts discussing EMDR, and I invite you to listen to our informative podcast episode, “Healing Through Eye Movements: An Introduction to EMDR.”

EMDR therapy is often beneficial not only for stage fright or anxiety but also for various mental health conditions including PTSD, trauma-related disorders, panic disorders, phobias, depression, and even chronic stress.

LifeStance Health is a national leader in mental, behavioral, and emotional wellness with multiple locations in 33 states. Services vary by location.

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How Does Miley Cyrus's EMDR Experience Compare to that of Our Clients?

From my own clinical observations, individuals often share how profoundly transformative EMDR sessions can be. Many express surprise at the relief they experience, noting the positive effect that this therapy has had on them. Like Miley, many of them say their anxiety or fear becomes more manageable or even disappears entirely.

One particular client comes to mind, who, after suffering persistent nightmares and intrusive memories, found immense relief through EMDR. Seeing the restoration of peace in people’s lives truly exemplifies why we’re so passionate about offering EMDR at LifeStance.

Is EMDR Therapy Right for Me?

Determining if EMDR therapy is right for you requires the guidance of a mental health care professional. To explore this option, find a clinic near you by visiting our locations page or browse our directory of therapists to schedule an appointment.

References

  1. USA Today (2025, June 23). Miley Cyrus says this type of therapy saved her life: What is EMDR? USA Today. https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2025/06/23/miley-cyrus-emdr-therapy/84294867007/

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Key Takeaways Key Takeaways

  • Miley Cyrus credits EMDR therapy with saving her life, and according to a LifeStance therapist, her experience closely mirrors the positive feedback many other individuals share after their own EMDR sessions.

  • EMDR therapy is widely beneficial, helping many individuals manage anxiety, PTSD, trauma-related disorders, phobias, depression, and chronic stress.

  • LifeStance offers EMDR therapy and a team of experienced therapists dedicated to guiding individuals through transformative mental health journeys.

Authored By 

Nicholette Leanza, MA, LPCC-S

Nicholette Leanza, LPCC-S, is an experienced clinical counselor with a diverse range of expertise. Her specializations include trauma, LGBTQ+, ADHD, and overall mental health and wellbeing. Embracing a holistic treatment philosophy, Nicholette skillfully integrates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and...

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