EMDR is a comprehensive therapeutic treatment approach that is aimed at treating trauma. It comprises three phases - assessment, diagnostics, and treatment planning.
For many, the effects of a past traumatic experience can become powerfully engrained in our psyche. The memories can be so vivid that we can even recall the original sounds, thoughts, feelings, and smells from the experience. For some of us, these strong memories can also be easily triggered – resulting in a wave of discomfort and negative emotions. In several cases, the afflicted person doesn’t even realize that the past traumatic event is what is being triggered, leaving them confused and in a negative state. Unfortunately, unknown to this person, these negative emotions they continue to feel are connected to the past traumatic event that continues to be triggered.
During the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, our brain is processing information and storing or deleting material of our lives. EMDR uses eye movements similar to what is happening during REM sleep to unlock the nervous system and allow the brain to process the traumatic event. For example, nightmares are evidence of the brain’s failed attempt to process disturbing memories during this cycle of sleep. The eye movements assist in processing the unconscious event. This is done in a safe space after working through a treatment plan with your therapist and building skills and resources that will assist in processing disturbing events.
EMDR is an eight phase clinical approach that includes:
History taking
Preparation
Assessment
Desensitization
Installation
Body Scan
Closure
Reevaluation
EMDR has been a therapeutic approach in practice since 1987 and developed by Francine Shapiro, PhD. Numerous studies endorsed the efficacy of EMDR therapy to the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder It is currently endorsed by the American Psychiatric Association, US Department of Veterans Affairs and Defense, SAHMSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration of the Dept. of HHS), World Health Organization and various other organizations.
EMDR can be applied in the treatment of:
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Phobias
Substance Abuse
Chronic Pain
Depression
Complicated grief
Anxiety Disorders
Dissociative Disorders
Call me today to see if EMDR is a fit for you.
The information provided above is not a substitute for therapeutic advice. Please make a consultation with a licensed psychotherapist for further information.
