EMDR THERAPY
Eye Movement Desensitization
& Reprocessing
What is EMDR?
EMDR, also known as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a therapy technique that helps individuals process challenging memories and minimize their negative impact on daily life. Through the combination of cognitive therapy, bilateral stimulation and mindfulness practices, EMDR supports healing and aids in resolving traumatic experiences. It has proven effective in treating conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, depression and symptoms associated with trauma.
How does EMDR work?
During EMDR therapy, I will support you in a step-by-step process to help you heal from your traumatic experiences. You’ll remember tough memories while paying attention to things like eye movements, sounds or touch called bilateral stimulation. Bilateral stimulation means activating both sides of your brain or body together in a rhythmic way. It’s an important part of EMDR therapy.
Bilateral stimulation supports the linking of various elements within a traumatic memory. It creates connections between emotions, thoughts and sensations tied to the memory or event. By bringing together these different elements, bilateral stimulation reduces intense emotions and paves the way for embracing new, positive thoughts and perspectives.
During an EMDR session, I may instruct you to follow my fingers with your eyes as they move from side to side, listen to tones played through headphones that alternate between the left and right ear or hold vibrating tactile devices that provide a pulsating sensation on both sides of the body. These bilateral stimulation techniques are used to stimulate the brain’s information processing mechanisms and promote the resolution of trauma.
What does EMDR treat?
Trauma and adverse life experiences can have a profound impact on mental health. EMDR has been extensively researched and proven effective in addressing various psychological concerns, including:
PTSD
EMDR has shown great success in treating PTSD resulting from trauma. By targeting distressing memories, it helps individuals process and integrate their experiences, leading to reduced PTSD symptoms.
Anxiety Disorders
EMDR provides benefits for anxiety disorders such as panic, social anxiety, and generalized anxiety. It helps alleviate distressing emotions, thoughts, and bodily sensations, empowering healthier coping mechanisms.
Depression
EMDR is effective in treating trauma-related depression. By reprocessing negative beliefs and emotions tied to past trauma, it offers relief from symptoms, restores hope, and enhances overall well-being.
Substance Abuse
EMDR addresses emotional wounds and trauma associated with substance abuse. It reduces the intensity of past events, alleviates triggers and cravings, transforms negative beliefs, and improves emotional regulation for healthier coping.
Phobias & Fears
EMDR effectively treats phobias and fears by desensitizing distressing emotions and thoughts linked to fear-inducing stimuli. It helps reprocess responses, reducing fear and enhancing feelings of safety.
Distressing Memories & Events
EMDR assists individuals with distressing memories or challenging life events that impact their daily functioning. It aids in reprocessing and healing after car accidents, loss or other distressing events, promoting emotional well-being.
What can you expect from EMDR therapy?
In EMDR therapy, I provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore and process your traumatic experiences. I will guide you through the process, helping you identify and address the root causes of your distress. EMDR aims to alleviate the emotional distress associated with trauma and promote positive changes in your thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
Why choose EMDR?
EMDR offers numerous benefits for individuals seeking relief from trauma-related symptoms and other mental health challenges. As a well-researched and evidence-based therapy, EMDR is recognized as effective by reputable organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Psychiatric Association (APA). Countless individuals have experienced significant improvements in their overall well-being and regained control of their lives through EMDR therapy.
If you’re ready to embark on a transformative journey towards healing, I am here to support you. Schedule a consultation and learn more about how EMDR therapy can help you overcome your challenges and achieve lasting change.
EMDR via Telehealth: Accessible and Convenient
Yes, EMDR therapy can be conducted through telehealth or online platforms, allowing individuals to receive treatment remotely. Telehealth has become increasingly popular and widely used, especially for mental health services, providing greater accessibility and convenience for clients.
While in-person EMDR therapy traditionally involves bilateral stimulation through eye movements, sounds or tactile sensations, adaptations have been made for remote sessions. Virtual bilateral stimulation tools, such as using a computer screen or a handheld device, can replicate the bilateral stimulation aspect of EMDR therapy during telehealth sessions.
When seeking EMDR therapy through telehealth, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified EMDR therapist such as myself who has experience and expertise in conducting remote sessions. I am trained in providing effective EMDR therapy through telehealth, ensuring that you receive the highest quality care and support.
