EMDR

What is EMDR?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured therapy based on the idea that trauma(s) or distressing experience(s) can become “stuck” in the brain’s natural information processing system, causing activation or “triggers” in present, everyday life. EMDR targets the emotions, physical sensations and thinking that exist as a result of those unprocessed experiences. While EMDR was created as a trauma intervention, today EMDR is used to treat a variety of symptoms including anxiety, depression and intrusive/obsessive thinking.

What do EMDR Sessions Consist of?

During the therapy sessions, The client and therapist focus on a memory, phobia, current trigger or relationship dynamic (target) that has created emotional pain or distress. During this time bilateral stimulation is applied (activation of both hemispheres of the brain). This activation is achieved through eye movements or tactile pulses/buzzes.The therapist and client return to the “target” until it changes. Thoughts and beliefs shift. Emotional and physical responses are diminished. New thoughts, feelings and beliefs are gained. Overall distress decreases and the client typically feels stronger and/or better about the target, both inside and outside of the therapy environment.

Is EMDR Talk Therapy?

EMDR is different from traditional talk therapy in the sense that the primary intervention is the bilateral stimulation. Some clients choose to talk throughout the process, but a client technically does not have to speak much- just enough to communicate with the therapist what is happening during the reprocessing.