EMDR

EMDR

What is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an integrative psychotherapy. It has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from different treatment approaches.

How does EMDR work?

EMDR therapy uses a technique called bilateral stimulation to repeatedly activate opposite sides of the brain. This bilateral stimulation is most often performed via eye movements but can also be administered by touch and/or sound. These eye movements mimic the period of sleep referred to as rapid eye movement or REM sleep; this stage of sleep is when the mind is attempting to processes recent events.

EMDR seems to help the brain reprocess the trapped memories is such a way that normal information processing is resumed. Therapists often use EMDR to help clients uncover and process beliefs that developed as the result of relational traumas, childhood abuse and/or neglect. For a more detailed explanation please visit the EMDR International Association.

What does EMDR help?

EMDR therapy helps children and adults of all ages. Therapists use EMDR therapy to address a wide range of challenges:

  • Anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias
  • Chronic Illness and medical issues
  • Depression and bipolar disorders
  • Dissociative disorders
  • Eating disorders
  • Grief and loss
  • Pain
  • Performance anxiety
  • Personality disorders
  • PTSD and other trauma and stress-related issues