EMDR
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) is a proven, evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals recover from traumatic or distressing experiences. It involves moving the eyes back and forth while focusing on a traumatic memory. This bilateral stimulation activates both brain hemispheres, engaging the brain's natural healing mechanisms to process and reduce the emotional intensity of the memory.
How Does EMDR Work?
Traumatic memories can become stuck in the brain like a splinter, causing ongoing distress. EMDR helps by reprocessing these memories, linking them with positive, adaptive information. This integration allows for a healthier mental and emotional state, transforming harmful beliefs and sensations associated with the trauma.
Understanding Trauma
Trauma affects each person differently. As Gabor Mate suggests, trauma is about the internal impact rather than the event itself. Bessel van der Kolk describes trauma as the ongoing imprint of past pain, fear, and horror. Trauma can arise from various experiences, from childhood bullying to major life events like abuse or natural disasters.
Who Can Benefit from EMDR?
EMDR is effective for individuals dealing with:
Posttraumatic stress symptoms (flashbacks, nightmares, negative beliefs)
Anxiety, depression, racial trauma, OCD, panic attacks, grief
Trauma from car accidents, sexual assault, war, abuse, and more
What to Expect in EMDR Therapy
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Learn about trauma and the EMDR process.
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Engage in activities to build emotional and mental resilience.
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Focus on a target memory while following the therapist's guided eye movements. The goal is to transform the emotional impact of the memory, which may take one or several sessions.
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Post-session, clients might feel lighter or more sensitive. Engage in supportive activities like journaling or spending time in peaceful environments.