Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR Therapy for Anxiety, Panic, PTSD and Trauma

EMDR therapy is a phased, focused approach to treating trauma by reconnecting the client in a safe and controld way to the images, emotions, and sensations they associate with the event. Thereby allowing the brains natural healing powers move toward adaptive resolution.

Based on the idea that symptoms occur when trauma/other negative and challenging experiences overwhelm the brain’s natural ability to heal. The process helps the healing process, is facilitated through bilateral stimulation while the client is re-experiencing the trauma in the context of a safe environment.

How Does EMDR Work?

EMDR helps individuals safely reprocess traumatic information until it is no longer psychologically disruptive to their lives. Over time, exposure to traumatic memories will no longer induce negative feelings and distressing symptoms.

Focusing on a disruptive memory, the client identifies the belief they hold about themselves, if connected to a negative memory EMDR teaches the person to change their view of themselves by learning to associate with a positive belief instead. All the sensations and emotions associated with the memory are identified. The client then reviews the memory while focusing on an external stimulus. This creates rapid (bilateral) eye movement.

During EMDR, individuals process the memory safely and that leads to a peaceful resolution. The experience results in increased insight regarding both previously disturbing events and the negative thoughts about themselves that have grown out of the original traumatic event.