What is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of treatment primarily used to help those who want to recover from trauma. Initially, clinical trials were conducted using EMDR on veterans who experienced PTSD after coming home from war. It has been found to be effective in desensitizing vivid memories; therefore, those who have experienced difficulty overcoming trauma can experience relief after receiving EMDR.

EMDR is what we call a “bottom-up” approach to therapy. This means that a person processes their traumatic symptoms through body sensations that are externally provoked. While a top-down approach such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) rely on our cognitive systems to interpret past situations; a bottoms-up approach relies on our body’s ability to intuitively guide us into the path of healing. When EMDR therapy is conducted, a person’s brain re-processes traumatic memories, which allows a proper linking of the brain’s systems to adequately process information. It removes blockage so that healing can occur. In the same way that we trust that a scab will form after a cut, the brain can heal itself when we allow ourselves to re-process disturbing events.

There are many misconceptions about EMDR and unfortunately it creates a barrier for people who struggle with PTSD who could benefit from EMDR to get healing. Let me first say that it is NOT a form of hypnosis. Clients are consciously aware and awake during every phase of the process. EMDR is heavily researched-based and it allows a way to heal more quickly than talk therapy. It is completely safe and research has found EMDR treatment helpful with those who are struggling with trauma—whether it is  simple or complex trauma.

Contact me so that we can hop on a fifteen minute consultation call so that I can answer your questions about EMDR so that we can better decide if you would be a good candidate for this treatment.