EMDR
If you would like to learn more about EMDR in general, a video is at this LINK (can this video be embedded on this page?)
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy. It’s a therapeutic model that can be highly effective for those who have experienced trauma.
EMDR therapy works on the premise that our emotional well-being is tied to our physical (somatic) state. Therefore, EMDR employs a body-based therapy technique called bilateral simulation. During bilateral simulation, a therapist will guide a client through eye movements, tones, or taps in order to access and move a memory that’s been incorrectly stored to a more functional part of the brain.
How does EMDR work?
When we experience trauma, our brain may process and store memories incorrectly. This incorrect storage can lead to past memories getting triggered and this influencing our feelings and behaviors in the present. Related or unrelated stimuli in the present can lead clients to react as they did at the time of the initial trauma because the brain feels as if the past disturbing event is currently happening in the present.
Many emotional problems are manifestations of these unprocessed trauma memories that are stored in the brain. We carry negative messages, challenging emotions, and body sensations from these unprocessed traumas around like unwanted heavy baggage. The unprocessed past creates a filter through which we experience our lives and relationships. This filter typically creates unwanted challenges and issues in life. These are the symptoms that often push a person to seek counseling.
EMDR therapy helps address this inaccurate storage issue so that the painful memories associated with past trauma lose their emotional charge. Once this happens, clients can react to stimuli in the present without the past getting triggered and interfering.
What can EMDR be used for?
EMDR can help people heal from trauma or adversities such as issues of abuse, neglect, bullying, death, illness, divorce, losses, attachment wounds, abandonment, PTSD, car accidents, and many other complex life issues.
Is EMDR safe?
There has been so much research on EMDR therapy that it is now recognized as an effective form of treatment for trauma and other disturbing experiences by organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association, the World Health Organization, the Department of Defense and SAMHSA (the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). In addition, EMDR therapy has been validated by over 30 randomized controlled clinical trials.
If you have more questions about EMDR, I would love to discuss these with you. Please Contact me.