Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been proven
effective for the treatment of trauma, as well as for general psychosocial and emotional challenges. EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from many different treatment approaches. It can be utilized in treatment of a variety of conditions, some of which include: anxiety, grief, phobias, stress reduction, addictions, trauma, physical ailments, depression, and a variety of conditions in which the client feels stuck.

How does EMDR work?
When a person is very upset, their brain cannot process information as it does ordinarily. One moment becomes “frozen in time,” and remembering a trauma or incident may feel as bad as going through it the first time because the images, sounds, smells, and feelings haven’t changed. Such memories have a lasting negative effect that interferes with the way a person sees the world and the way they relate to other people. EMDR seems to have a direct effect on the way that the brain processes information. Normal information processing is resumed, so following a successful EMDR session, a person no longer relives the images, sounds, and feelings when the event is brought to mind. You still remember what happened, but it is less upsetting. Many types of therapy have similar goals. However, EMDR appears to be similar to what occurs naturally during dreaming or REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. Therefore, EMDR can be thought of as a physiologically based therapy that helps a person see disturbing material in a new and less distressing way.

What is the actual EMDR session like?

Complete treatment includes targeting a present disturbance, and future actions. The goal of EMDR therapy is to leave you with the emotions, understanding, and perspectives that will lead to healthy and useful behaviors and interactions. -EMDRIA EMDR International Association© 1995-2018. The session involves facilitation of eye movements or facilitation at the hands with a gentle vibration to stimulate both sides of the
brain.

In summary, as with many therapeutic processes the client and therapist work collaboratively, as the therapist facilitates the client’s process. EMDR can be utilized with other therapeutic modalities, geared towards the uniqueness of each client. The client is guided with facilitation as they move through their process towards more peace and wellness.

Who can benefit?

EMDR works well with any type of trauma, but many“things”big or small may be perceived as trauma. Anyone feeling “stuck” or having difficulties moving past an event that continues to effect in the present.