This highly effective tool is very helpful in lowering the intense feelings
caused by trauma, abuse, anxiety, and other difficulties!
Many of our therapists are trained in a therapeutic technique called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). It’s a highly effective and powerful psychotherapy treatment to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. EMDR uses external stimulation such as eye movements, hand tapping, audio stimulation, and a variety of other methods which help diminish the emotional and physical response when remembering a trauma. For some people, they have an automatic startle response to environmental sights, smells and sounds which can be debilitating (i.e. jumping and hiding under something when hearing a loud popping sound).
How does EMDR work?
When a person experiences trauma, the brain cannot process information as it ordinarily does. Through EMDR, new associations are created between the traumatic memory and more adaptive memories resulting in new learning, elimination of emotional distress, and development of cognitive insights. EMDR is similar to what occurs naturally during dreaming or REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. This therapy has a direct effect on the way the brain processes information.
What is the actual EMDR session like?
A specific problem or trauma is most often the target of the EMDR session. The client calls to mind what was seen, felt, heard, and the thoughts and beliefs about that event. While focusing on the disturbing material, the therapist facilitates either directional movement of the eyes or another form of bilateral stimulation. The client may experience intense emotion but by the end of the session there is usually a great reduction in the level of disturbance. The client is totally aware of what is happening, they are not in a trance or hypnotic state. EMDR is very safe.
How long does EMDR take?
Before EMDR therapy begins, the therapist will spend one or more sessions accessing the nature of the problem. The process of EMDR will be discussed thoroughly and an opportunity will be provided for questions to be asked. A typical EMDR session lasts from 60 to 90 minutes. The number of sessions depends upon the specific problem and client history. However, repeated controlled studies have shown that a single trauma can be processed within 3 sessions in 80-90% of the participants.
Does EMDR really work?
EMDR is the most researched psychotherapeutic treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Over 20 controlled studies have found EMDR to effectively decrease or eliminate symptoms of PTSD for the majority of clients. Research has also shown EMDR to be an efficient, powerful and rapid treatment.
We have several therapists trained and certified in
EMDR so call today to get scheduled
952.546.5565
