What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR therapy, also known as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, holds a deeply personal and transformative journey for those seeking to heal from trauma and emotional wounds. Born out of the pioneering work of Dr. Francine Shapiro, EMDR acknowledges that traumatic experiences can linger within our minds and bodies, creating ongoing distress and negative impacts on our lives.
Amidst the EMDR sessions, you will embark on a collaborative journey with a seasoned therapist, navigating a meticulously structured process that incorporates eye movements, sounds, or tactile sensations. These purposeful techniques tap into the intrinsic healing prowess of our brains, guiding us to reprocess and weave traumatic memories into the fabric of our narrative. In the embrace of this distinctive approach, the emotional burden carried by these memories gently lightens, presenting a profound opportunity for personal healing, emotional liberation, and a transformative path toward overall well-being.
Therapists complete a 50 hour EMDR training course which consists of 20 hours of didactic, 20 hours of practicum, and 10 hours of consultation.
EMDR is effective for those who suffer from:
- PTSD, panic disorder, and phobias
- Anxiety and depression
- Physical, sexual, emotional, and spiritual trauma
- Bullying, racism & discrimination
- Medical trauma
- Chronic illnesses/syndromes
How does EMDR help heal?
- Memory Reprocessing: EMDR assists individuals in reprocessing traumatic memories by encouraging the brain to make more adaptive and integrated connections. This can lead to a reduction in the emotional charge and distress associated with those memories.
- Bilateral Stimulation: The use of bilateral stimulation (such as side-to-side eye movements, tactile sensations, or auditory tones) during EMDR is thought to mimic the natural process of REM sleep (rapid eye movement) which facilitates the brain’s ability to process and integrate information.
- Reduced Emotional Charge: Through the guided recall of distressing memories (cognitive memories and body memories) coupled with bilateral stimulation, EMDR aims to reduce the intensity of emotional and physiological reactions to traumatic memories.
- Empowerment: The structured nature of EMDR and the client’s active participation in the therapeutic process can foster a sense of empowerment. Clients often report a greater sense of control over their emotions and reactions.
- Addressing Negative Beliefs: EMDR involves identifying and addressing negative beliefs or self-perceptions associated with the distressing memories. By challenging and reprocessing these negative cognitions, individuals may experience a shift in their beliefs about themselves and the traumatic event.
EMDR takes a holistic approach to healing by addressing not only the cognitive and emotional aspects but also incorporating sensory and physiological elements through bilateral stimulation.