EMDR

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based structured therapy that focuses on a specific memory or event that causes emotional distress while engaging in bilateral stimulation (side to side eye movements or tapping on opposite sides of your body.) 

Our brains have a natural way to recover from traumatic memories and events. However, sometimes a disturbing experience can become stuck in the nervous system along with all its different components-the sights, sounds, thoughts, emotions, and body sensations associated with it. Because it is stuck, it continues to be triggered by reminders of the traumatic event. 

Engaging in bilateral stimulation allows unprocessed memories to be reprocessed by releasing the distressing emotions and sensations. This approach can result in the alleviation of presenting symptoms, reduced bodily disturbance and distress, and an improved view of self. 

What is EMDR?

What can EMDR help with?

EMDR is highly recommended for people who have experienced:

  • Depression

  • PTSD

  • Sexual Assault

  • Grief

  • Violence or Abuse

  • Trauma

  • Panic Attacks

  • Phobias

  • Anxiety

According to the EMDR International Association, The EMDR works by facilitating communication between three parts of the brain: the amygdala (the alarm signal for stress), the hippocampus (the part that assists with learning), and the prefrontal cortex (the part that controls and analyzes behavior and emotion). These three parts of the brain then work together to fully process the distressing events so the memories no longer have the same intensity.

Because there is this connection with the brain and the body simultaneously, EMDR is different from talk therapy as the client does not have to share full details of the painful events or situation. The client is able to be in the driver seat regarding their healing with the therapist as a passenger guiding the client to keep “one foot in the past, and one foot in the present” while reprocessing.

How does EMDR Work?

Phases of EMDR

  • This involves getting to know you, sharing your history and identifying what the focus of your work will be on.

  • More of the process and mechanics of EMDR are shared and grounding and coping skills are taught that help within and outside of the session. This phase may take longer or shorter depending on individual need.

  • During this phase, the events, thoughts, feelings, and beliefs are identified for reprocessing.

  • This phase involves the facilitation of the agreed upon bilateral stimulation technique guided by therapist

  • This phase involves creating and associating new positive core beliefs to the identified target.

  • You will be prompted to engage in a body scan and share any sensations you are experiencing while connecting to the identified target event and the new positive belief.

  • Therapist will facilitate grounding to return to the present moment during a reprocessing session. You are able to share any thoughts or feelings regarding the experience, the event, or your body.

  • At the start of each session, there will be a review of your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs about the event as well as your distress level.

*You can find more information on EMDR from EMDR Institute and EMDRIA.