What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from different treatment approaches.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR therapy uses “alternating bilateral stimulation” – such as through eye movements or tapping with the hands – to repeatedly activate the nervous system. This works to integrate memories and experiences that have stayed “stuck in time” — feeling as though they just happened yesterday. When I hear people say things like, “Rationally, I know it’s not my fault, but I can’t stop feeling like it is,” I think of EMDR. EMDR allows us to integrate what we felt in a given moment with what we know now.
For a more detailed explanation please visit EMDR Institute, Inc.
What does EMDR help?
EMDR was originally developed to treat PTSD, although it’s been proven useful for treatment in many conditions, such as:
- Panic Attacks
- Complicated Grief
- Attachment Trauma
- Dissociative Orders
- Disturbing Memories
- Phobias
- Pain Disorders
- Performance Anxiety
- Addictions
- Stress Reduction
- Sexual and/or Physical Abuse
- Body Dysmorphic Disorders
It’s especially indicated for any event that has disrupted a person in a lasting way.