What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that allows for the healing of symptoms and emotional distress due to adverse life experiences. Numerous studies have shown the benefits of EMDR therapy, with people experiencing a decrease of symptoms in less time than it usually takes in typical talk therapy. Just like when one cuts their hand and the body works to close the wound, EMDR allows the brain to work to heal the “wound of trauma.” EMDR can be used to help you activate the natural healing processes.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR therapy is an integrative psychotherapy and uses a technique called bilateral stimulation to repeatedly activate both sides of the brain. Therapists often use eye movements to facilitate the bilateral stimulation. These eye movements mimic the period of sleep referred to as rapid eye movement or REM sleep, and this portion of sleep is frequently considered to be the time when the mind processes the recent events in the person’s life.
EMDR seems to help the brain reprocess the trapped memories is such a way that normal information processing is resumed. Therapists often use EMDR to help clients uncover and process beliefs that developed as the result of traumas or childhood abuse and/or neglect, domestic violence, and other adverse experiences. For a more detailed explanation please visit EMDR Institute, Inc.
EMDR Facts:
- EMDR was founded by Dr. Francine Shapiro in 1987.
- The first study completed on EMDR was conducted in 1989.
- EMDR therapy is listed as an effective treatment by the American Psychiatric Association, Departments of Defense, Veterans Affairs, and numerous other international agencies.
- EMDR therapy has a positive impact on intrusive nightmares and flashbacks, disassociation, and other negative symptoms.
EMDR had been originally established as helpful for PTSD, although it’s been proven useful for treatment in the following conditions:
- Panic Attacks
- Complicated Grief
- Dissociative Orders
- Disturbing Memories
- Phobias
- Pain Disorders
- Performance Anxiety
- Addictions
- Stress Reduction
- Sexual and/or Physical Abuse
- Body Dysmorphic Disorders
- Personality Disorders
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or other problems, contact usto see if EMDR might help.