What is EMDR?
Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), appears to reorganize traumatic memories that interfere with an individual’s daily functioning. When a person is overwhelmed with trauma (e.g., a near-death experience or abuse of some kind), their brain does not process information like it usually does, and an experience may become “frozen” in time. This is the brain’s way of adapting to or coping with the fearful memory. It sets up a behavioral pattern of avoidance and overreactions to anything that resembles the original trauma . . . the past becomes present in our lives.
What symptoms can be helped by EMDR?
- High anxiety and lack of motivation
- Depression
- Memories of a traumatic experience
- Fear of being alone
- Unrealistic feelings of guilt and shame
- Difficulty in trusting others
- Fear of being alone
- Relationship problems
The EMDR technique is most effective when used in conjunction with other traditional methods of therapy in treating these and many other emotional disorders.
EMDR therapy can help clients replace their anxiety and fear with positive images, emotions and thoughts.
How is EMDR conducted?
Once the therapist and patient identify a specific traumatic memory to be the focus of the EMDR treatment session, the therapist facilitates bilateral stimulation using tappers (small vibrating pods) or eye movements of the brain while the client focuses on the disturbing memory. This facilitates the ability for the person to see the disturbing material in a new, less distressing, and in some cases, a more meaningful way.
Is EMDR right for you?
That depends on your individual situation. I will work closely with you to identify the areas or issues in your life you would like to change and we can discuss whether treating those with EMDR or another method will be more effective. If you are interested in knowing more about how EMDR might work for you, please let me know.