What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an interactive psychotherapy technique used to relieve psychological stress and the effects of trauma. In a safe and measured way, it reconnects the client to the images, self-thoughts, emotions, and body sensations associated with the trauma, and allows the natural healing powers of the brain to move towards an adaptive resolution.

Originally, eye movements were the only form of bilateral stimulation used within the technique. However, research and experience have revealed that other forms of bilateral stimulation are also effective tools in treatment.

Clients experience negative symptoms when trauma and other damaging experiences overwhelm the brain’s natural ability to heal. The brain’s natural healing process can be facilitated through bilateral stimulation, while the client re-visits the trauma in the safe environment of the therapist’s office.

Through EMDR, individuals safely reprocess traumatic information until it is no longer psychologically disruptive to their lives.

What can EMDR be used for?

EMDR has helped millions of patients recover from such traumas as war, accidents, assaults, disasters, and childhood abuse.

In addition to its use for the treatment of trauma, EMDR has been successfully used to treat anxiety & stress, panic attacks, depression, self-esteem, phobias, complicated grief, sleep problems, addictions & pain relief.

What can I expect?

During the EMDR treatment you will remain in control, fully alert and wide-awake. This is not a form of hypnosis and you can stop the process at any time. Throughout the session, the therapist will support and facilitate your own self-healing and intervene as little as possible.

Reprocessing is usually experienced as something that happens instinctively, and new connections and insights are felt to arise quite naturally from within. As a result, most people experience EMDR as being a natural and very empowering therapy.

What’s next?

EMDR is a wonderful tool to help you accomplish your treatment goals. With long-standing issues, this process may take multiple sessions. Using what you’ve learned, we will work together to integrate new insights and perspectives into your daily life.