Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a structured psychotherapy approach designed to help people process traumatic memories and distressing experiences effectively. It was developed by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s and has since gained recognition as an evidence-based treatment for trauma-related disorders.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy:
-
Effective Treatment for PTSD: EMDR is widely recognized as one of the most effective treatments for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It helps individuals process traumatic memories and reduce the emotional distress associated with them.
-
Addressing a Range of Issues: Beyond PTSD, EMDR has been successfully used to treat a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, and more.
-
Speed of Treatment: Compared to traditional talk therapy, EMDR can often achieve results more quickly. Many individuals report significant improvement in symptoms within a relatively short period.
-
Minimally Invasive: EMDR does not require individuals to extensively talk about their trauma in detail, which can be a barrier for some people seeking therapy.
-
Long-Lasting Results: Research suggests that the benefits of EMDR therapy are often sustained over time, with many individuals experiencing lasting relief from symptoms.
How Does EMDR It Work?
EMDR is an eight-phase therapy which includes history taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure and re-evaluation. You can expect that to look as follows:
-
Assessment: Your therapist will get to know you, assess your readiness and discuss your goals.
-
Preparation: You’ll learn coping techniques to manage emotional distress.
-
Processing: Using bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or sounds), you’ll focus on targeted memories or stressors. This phase only occurs once the client is fully prepared.
-
Closure: Each session ends with grounding exercises to ensure you feel safe.
-
Reevaluation: Progress is monitored to adjust treatment as needed.
What Will You Feel?
EMDR may evoke strong emotions temporarily, but the process is designed to lead to relief and resolution over time. Clients express feeling a sense of distancing from the memories, feelings and images that come up during processing or that we are addressing.
Is EMDR Right for You?
If you’re struggling with past trauma, anxiety, or negative beliefs, EMDR could offer you a path to healing.