Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a well-researched and successful psychotherapeutic technique for treating trauma, anxiety and a variety of other problems and disorders. It is based on the understanding that when traumatic or adverse events occur, the brain often blocks processing of them and stores the original thoughts, sounds, feelings, and images of the event. When these sensations are triggered in the present, they can feel like they are happening all over again.
What to Expect from an EMDR Session
During a session, the therapist gently asks a client to revisit thoughts, feelings, and sensations related to the traumatic incident while receiving bilateral stimulation (BLS) by following eye movements or holding buzzing tappers in each hand. As sensations arise during the session, they are processed by the bilateral stimulation and replaced with safer and more compassionate self-thoughts and feelings which allow the client to feel more distant from the memory.
What Does EMDR Treat?
EMDR has been endorsed by the American Psychological Association, the Veterans Administration, and the World Health Organization as a preferred treatment for PTSD.
EMDR has also been proven effective for:
Low self-esteem and confidence
Relationship and intimacy issues
Difficult life transitions such as separation and divorce
Depression
Anxiety
Complicated grief and loss
Complex childhood trauma and attachment disorders
Phobias
Addictions and compulsive behaviors
Feel free to contact me for a free phone consultation to hear more about EMDR and whether it would be a good fit.