Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
healing is possible
Traumatic experiences may overwhelm the processing ability of our brains, and small pieces of the trauma remain stuck, frozen in time. Eye movements allow the brain to reprocess and desensitize these “frozen” experiences, helping adaptive information processing to resume. Research shows that eye movements reduce the intensity of disturbing past events. Memories remain intact, while negative and highly-charged emotional response experiences lose their charge. Clients process in a way that leads to peaceful resolution and increased insight into past events and negative belief patterns.
EMDR uses a set of standardized protocols and integrates a variety of therapeutic modalities.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing – often simply known as EMDR – is a powerful form of psychotherapy that assists with left brain-right brain integration of past negative experiences.
Developed in 1987 by Dr. Francine Shapiro, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing – often simply known as EMDR – is a powerful form of psychotherapy that assists with left brain-right brain integration of past negative experiences. EMDR, an evidenced-based therapy, has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. Further lending credibility to this form of therapy, it has helped millions of individuals to reduce experiences related to anxiety, performance anxiety, fear, stress, adjustment difficulties, eating disorders, body image disorders, grief, dissociation, and recurring memories.
During an EMDR session, the therapist leads the client in a set of lateral eye movements while the client focuses on the target memory. Left-right eye movements are administered in a variety of ways, culminating in the rapid resolution of psychological and physical problems.
While the client focuses on the upsetting event, the therapist begins sets of side-to-side eye movements, sounds, or taps. The client is guided to notice what comes to mind after each set. They may experience shifts in insight or changes in images, feelings, or beliefs regarding the event.
The client is in complete control and can stop the therapist at any point if needed. The sets of eye movements, sounds, or taps are repeated until the event becomes less disturbing.
While the client focuses on the upsetting event, the therapist begins sets of side-to-side eye movements, sounds, or taps. The client is guided to notice what comes to mind after each set. They may experience shifts in insight or changes in images, feelings, or beliefs regarding the event.
The client is in complete control and can stop the therapist at any point if needed. The sets of eye movements, sounds, or taps are repeated until the event becomes less disturbing.
What to Expect
It can be! EMDR therapy may be used within standard psychotherapy, as an adjunctive therapy with a separate therapist, or as a solo treatment modality.
Is EMDR a stand-alone therapeutic option?
The goal of EMDR therapy is to completely process the traumatic experiences that are causing problems and ultimately reach full wellness. EMDR should leave you with the emotions, understanding, and perspectives that lead to healthy and useful behaviors and interactions.
what is the goal of emdr therapy?
I'll be in touch within 48 business hours to answer any questions about have about the group.
