EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
What do you actually do in EMDR?
During EMDR therapy, you'll briefly focus on a troubling memory or belief while engaging in gentle bilateral stimulation, such as following your therapist's fingers with your eyes or using hand held buzzers. This process helps the brain reprocess the memory so it becomes less emotionally overwhelming. The brain can also incorporate new insights and beliefs more readily in this state.
What is EMDR used to treat?
EMDR is widely recognized as an effective treatment for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and is also used to help with anxiety, panic, phobias, grief, and other experiences that continue to affect daily life. Sometimes difficult memories can become "stuck," continuing to trigger anxiety, fear, or emotional pain long after the event has passed.
In my practice I have also used EMDR with people in recovery to decrease triggers and cravings.
Benefits of EMDR therapy
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn't require you to discuss every detail of a painful experience. It is normal to want to avoid re-experiencing things that are painful and this can keep people from seeking treatment. With EMDR many people find that distressing memories become less intense, allowing them to move forward with greater confidence, resilience, and emotional well-being.
EMDR can be done in person or by video sessions.