EMDR

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy approach designed to help people process and heal from distressing memories and traumatic experiences. Developed by Francine Shapiro, EMDR uses a method called bilateral stimulation—often eye movements, tapping, or sounds—which involves stimulation of both sides of the brain to to help the brain process difficult memories so they are no longer as emotionally intense or disruptive.

I love using EMDR to help people heal from trauma because it takes the client right to the heart of a memory where they can focus on all of the thoughts, pictures, emotions, and sensations of a past moment, but I’m right there with them, keeping them focused and safe. It bypasses the defenses that clients employ in a regular talk therapy and that is why it is extremely powerful. These very specific moments of encoded memory that people tend to avoid and run away from can now be processed effectively. 

What does this like in therapy? The process typically involves:

    1.    Identifying the Target Memory: The therapist and client pinpoint a specific traumatic memory or distressing event.

    2.    Bilateral Stimulation: While the client focuses on the memory, the therapist guides eye movements, taps, or auditory tones, which activate both sides of the brain.

    3.    Processing and Reframing: As the memory is processed, its emotional intensity diminishes, and the client develops new, healthier perspectives about the event.

EMDR is widely used to treat PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related symptoms, enabling individuals to resolve past experiences that impact their current well-being.