What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. It is an evidence based effective therapy for overcoming trauma and life challenges. It works by using bilateral stimulation to activate the brain's natural information processing system. This process is similar to what happens during rapid eye movement sleep ( REM Sleep). The information processing system then integrates the memory networks with other information allowing healing to occur.
How can EMDR help me?
1. Helps reduce distress caused by memories from the past or fears of the future that are creating disturbances in your present life.
2. Helps manage and reduce stress caused by ongoing stressful situations.
3. Helps regulate the nervous system.
4. Helps process the difficult life experiences without revisiting every detail of the difficult memory.
5. Provides you with tools to help you manage stressful situations more efficiently.
6. Helps you reach your goals faster. EMDR has been show to be effectively faster than traditional psychotherapy.​​
What can EMDR help with?
1. Traumatic Events: EMDR is effective in addressing trauma resulting from events such as accidents, natural disasters, or violent incidents
2.Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): It can be beneficial for individuals experiencing PTSD symptoms due to past traumatic experiences.
3.Abuse Survivors: EMDR is often used to help survivors of various forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.
4. Anxiety Disorders: It can assist individuals dealing with anxiety disorders, including panic attacks, phobias, and generalized anxiety.
5.Depression: EMDR may be helpful for individuals struggling with depression, especially when linked to past traumatic events.
6. Grief and Loss: Those coping with grief and loss, such as the death of a loved one, can find EMDR supportive in processing emotions.
7. Performance Anxiety: EMDR is sometimes used to address performance anxiety, whether related to work, academics, or other areas of life.
8. Addiction Recovery: Individuals in recovery from addiction may benefit from EMDR as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
9. Relationship Trauma: EMDR can be applied to address trauma within relationships, aiding in the healing process for individuals and couples.
10. Phobias and Fears: Specific phobias and intense fears can be treated with EMDR, helping individuals overcome these challenges.
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What to expect in EMDR therapy sessions?
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Initial Assessment:
During the initial assessment your therapist will gather information about your history, current challenges and goals for EMDR.
Education about EMDR:
Your therapist will explain the principles of EMDR, how bilateral stimulation works, and its role in processing traumatic memories.
Collaborative Treatment Planning:
You will work with your therapist to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Establishing Safety and Coping Strategies:
Before diving into trauma processing, your therapist will help you establish safety and coping strategies to manage distress.
Bilateral Stimulation:
Experience bilateral stimulation, often through guided eye movements, to facilitate the processing of distressing memories.
Focused Attention on Specific Memories:
You will focus on specific distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation to facilitate processing.
Mind-Body Connection:
Recognize how your thoughts, feelings and physical sensations are connected during the processing of memories.
Interruptions and Processing Stops:
Your therapist may pause the processing to check in and ensure you feel grounded and safe, especially if the emotional intensity increases.
Post-Processing Discussion:
After processing memories, there will be a discussion about the thoughts, emotions, and insights that emerged during the session.
Integration and Resourcing:
Work with your therapist to integrate positive cognitions and develop resources to support ongoing healing.​​