EMDR
What is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR is a structured therapy that is based on the research and work of Francine Shapiro, Ph.D.
EMDR uses the brain’s natural healing mechanisms to help our minds and bodies reprocess and “digest” experiences of trauma and distress. EMDR is designed to address thoughts, emotions, and the body and is helpful for people who may not have gotten relief from traditional talk therapy.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR therapy is a method that uses a technique called bilateral stimulation to repeatedly activate opposite sides of the brain. Therapists will use eye movements, sounds, sensation, or walking to mimic the bilateral stimulation. This mimics the way your brain processes during the REM sleep cycle and helps your system consolidate information in new ways.You will work with your therapist to help access calm and contain distressful thoughts or feelings.
EMDR seems to help the brain resume a natural healing process. Therapists often use EMDR to help clients uncover and process beliefs that developed as the result of relational traumas, or childhood abuse and/or neglect. For a more detailed explanation please visit the EMDR Institute, Inc.
What does EMDR help?
EMDR had been originally established as helpful for PTSD, although it’s been proven useful for treatment in the following conditions:
- Panic Attacks
- Complicated Grief
- Dissociative Orders
- Disturbing Memories
- Phobias
- Pain Disorders
- Performance Anxiety
- Addictions
- Stress Reduction
- Sexual and/or Physical Abuse
- Body Dysmorphic Disorders
- Personality Disorders
None of the above symptoms or experiences fit you?
Do you experience distressing emotions that appear to you, and perhaps to others, to be excessive given the current situation? Do you tend to be highly reactive to certain triggers? Is there one or more dysfunctional beliefs that you believe about yourself that on an intellectual level you know is not true?
If so, you may still be a good candidate for EMDR therapy. Contact me today to see if EMDR might help you release what no longer serves you.