EMDR Therapy
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. EMDR is one of the most researched methods of modern psychotherapy and has been proven to relieve the symptoms of trauma by changing the way memories are stored. EMDR is an accelerated type of therapy, so what other therapeutic approaches can accomplish in many sessions, EMDR can accomplish in fewer sessions.
Who can benefit from EMDR?
EMDR therapy helps children and adults of all ages. Whether you have experienced an isolated traumatic incident, longterm stress, or relationship trauma, EMDR could work for you.
- Anxiety & panic attacks
- Borderline Personality Disorder
- Childhood trauma
- Chronic illness & medical issues
- Depression & bipolar disorders
- Dissociative disorders
- Eating disorders
- Grief and loss
- Low self-esteem
- Pain
- Performance & test anxiety
- Phobias & fears
- PTSD & trauma related issues
- Rape & sexual assault
- Sleep disturbances
- Substances use & addiction
- Violence and abuse
EMDR Basics
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When we experience something traumatic, our brain is not always able to process the memory correctly because anxiety is too high.
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When this happens, our prefrontal cortex goes offline and we don't have access to logic and rational thinking. The normal memory storage process is hindered.
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When memories are stored incorrectly, our past experiences continue to feel very present and can effect our daily lives .
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We cannot THINK ourselves out of trauma.
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With EMDR, we use bilateral stimulation (back-and-forth eye movement or tapping) to reprocess past events and find some peace in the present.
The Process of EMDR
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EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing model (AIP).
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There are 8 phases that we weave in and out of during the process.
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Phases 1 & 2 = Preparation and Safety
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Phases 3 - 8 = Processing memories using bilateral stimulation
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After Phase 8, we integrate! This will support you in making changes in your life and accomplishing your goals.
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We always incorporate mindfulness so we can stay in tune with your needs and be aware of all thoughts, feelings, and sensations that come up during EMDR.