EMDR

 

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful evidence-based therapy practice to treat trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). EMDR is particularly effective for those whose traumatic memories still impact their present lives.

EMDR therapy is endorsed by the American Psychiatric Association and the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies. It is currently used by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense, the Israeli National Council for Mental Health and the United Kingdom Department of Health, among others, for the treatment of trauma-related symptoms.

 

What is an EMDR session like?

Traumatic memories are stored in the brain differently than other kinds of memories. During a traumatic event, the fight-or-flight response kicks in to cope with the immediate situation. But the brain often cannot make sense of the event. The information processing system of the brain gets disrupted. As a result, the memory of the event gets stored in a fragmented and unfinished fashion that keeps reemerging in the present. The memory of the traumatic event seems frozen. The painful thoughts, feelings, sensations and images associated with the traumatic event seem to be locked in the nervous system.

EMDR therapy shifts how trauma is stored in the brain and reduces the disturbing emotions, sensations, symptoms, and beliefs associated with those experiences. Through the use of eye movements, EMDR therapy fundamentally changes the way the memory is stored.

The EMDR process can reduce sensitivity that you have around the traumatic memory, painful thoughts or feelings. The emotional charge associated with the traumatic memory is eliminated or reduced.

 

How does EMDR Therapy work?

 

Benefits of EMDR

I begin with understanding your personal history, current concerns and symptoms. From there, we discuss and agree on any key areas that you want to work on. I guide you through the rapid eye movement process using an EMDR light bar. It is during this time that stuck memory is processed and integrated. Many clients report that EMDR therapy is relaxing and enjoy the sense of relief from its effect.

Trauma resolution: EMDR has shown remarkable effectiveness in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions.

  1. Emotional healing: EMDR can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other emotional difficulties stemming from past experiences.

  2. Improved self-esteem: By reprocessing negative beliefs, EMDR empowers individuals to develop more positive and adaptive self-perceptions.

  3. Enhanced personal growth: EMDR can facilitate personal growth and foster a greater sense of self-awareness, resilience, and overall well-being.

  4. Lasting results: EMDR is known for its ability to create long-term positive changes in a relatively short period.

Fast Facts, EMDR

…helps individuals reframe negative beliefs and emotions associated with traumatic experiences, leading to resolution and healing.

…can yield significant results in a relatively short period, occurring as early as the first 3 sessions.

…can be integrated into your regular psychotherapy schedule.

…is utilized in treatment for trauma, anxiety, depression, phobias, and other psychological challenges, such as feeling stuck.

…involves bilateral stimulation techniques, such as eye movements, tapping, or auditory cues, to facilitate the processing and reintegration of distressing memories.

…is recognized as an evidence-based therapy by organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO).