EMDR Therapy
An evidence based therapy approach for overcoming trauma and painful past memories
You feel trapped by memories or emotional pain that you can’t get rid of.
You are having trouble sleeping at night, your brain won’t shut down or you wake up with nightmares. You sometimes find yourself going about your day, but suddenly think or remember a painful moment in your past, that still hurts to remember. Or maybe you’re avoiding a place or a person that you need to interact with for work, but there’s just something about it that leaves you feeling nervous or unsettled. You might be having physical symptoms that medical doctors can’t find a cause for other than “stress-related or induced” symptoms.
We all experience memories of events or situations that don’t always get processed correctly in our brain and can remain “stuck”. These types of memories can cause both emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms that can negatively impact your life.
Signs you may be dealing with painful past experiences:
Feeling worried or having panic attacks
Mood swings or difficulty controlling your intense feelings
Low self-esteem
Struggling with relationships
Memories or thoughts that pop up without your consent
how can EMDR help
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR can help you break through what’s holding you back.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a powerful, evidence-based approach to treating trauma and painful past memories. Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has been extensively researched and proven to be effective in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. EMDR therapy is based on the idea that traumatic memories are stored in a “frozen” state, making it difficult for the brain to process and integrate them into the person’s narrative. By using eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, EMDR therapy helps to “unfreeze” these memories, allowing the brain to reprocess and integrate them in a new, less distressing way.
Understanding the fundamentals of EMDR and its purpose in trauma healing
EMDR therapy is designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences, including childhood trauma, natural disasters, and combat-related trauma. The goal of EMDR is to reduce the distress associated with traumatic memories, allowing individuals to regain control over their lives and improve their mental health. EMDR therapy is typically conducted by a trained mental health professional, who will work with the individual to identify and process traumatic memories in a safe and supportive environment.
At its core, EMDR helps people process distressing memories by using bilateral stimulation. This typically involves guided eye movements or other forms of rhythmic left-right stimulation, such as tapping. This process allows the brain to reprocess upsetting memories, storing them in the memory of a person in a less distressing forms.
Benefits of emdr…
Quicker resolution of painful past experiences
Some studies show that EMDR can more efficiently help process painful memories and experiences than traditional talk therapy, leading to feeling better faster. EMDR therapy can help individuals heal trauma by focusing on both past memories and present experiences.
Reduce emotional intensity
The bilateral stimulation in EMDR can reduce the strong emotions around painful memories and experiences, making it easier to think, feel and talk about. This makes EMDR an effective form of trauma therapy for individuals dealing with distressing memories.
Increase positive belief in yourself
EMDR is structured so that kids, teens, and adults can learn a new positive, healthier belief about themselves. This approach is particularly beneficial for trauma survivors who are working to rebuild their self-esteem and confidence.
FAQs
How does EMDR Therapy Work?
The EMDR therapy process typically involves several phases, including:
Client history and treatment planning: The therapist will work with the individual to identify their goals and develop a treatment plan.
Preparation: The therapist will teach the individual relaxation techniques and establish a safe and supportive environment.
Assessment: The therapist will identify the traumatic memories to be targeted and assess the individual’s current level of distress.
Desensitization: The therapist will use bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements or tapping) to help the individual process the traumatic memory.
Installation: The therapist will help the individual to install a new, more positive perspective on the traumatic experience.
Body scan: The therapist will help the individual to process any remaining physical sensations or tension.
Closure: The therapist will help the individual to integrate the new insights and perspectives into their daily life.
What is the difference between a trauma therapist and a therapist?
The trauma therapist is different from traditional practitioners by having greater training and experience with trauma and employing certain techniques.
What is the therapy for trauma called?
Eye movements desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR) is a psychological therapy method. EMDR treats traumatic memory disorders.
What type of therapy is best for trauma?
EMDR has been shown to work well with trauma. However it is not the only modality used.
We want you to know:
Your past doesn’t have to define you.
Let’s work together to find a new, confident path forward.
faqs
Common questions about EMDR therapy
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Your therapist will assess if you are a good candidate for EMDR, but anyone can participate in it. All the therapists at Reflect Therapy are trained in EMDR and how to use it with specific age groups, including children and teens.
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EMDR does not physically hurt, as your therapist will use eye movements or gentle tapping to help you process. However, it can stir up painful emotions, which your therapist will work with you to process and resolve without overwhelming you.
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Book a free consult to learn more about how EMDR could help you!
Ready to get started?