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EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

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EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

The EMDR International Association defines Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as “a highly researched, effective brain-based treatment. EMDR is a structured therapy that encourages the patient to briefly focus on the trauma memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements), which is associated with a reduction in the vividness and emotion associated with the trauma memories”. EMDR was developed by Francine Shapiro in the 1990’s and was initially used with combat soldiers suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).  It is now is used to treat a range of challenges, such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Panic and Phobias
  • Grief and Loss
  • Substance abuse and Addiction
  • Depression
  • Dissociative disorders
  • Eating disorders
  • Pain, Trauma, and Sleep Disturbances

EMDR therapy relies on the brain’s natural healing process, and for some clients, treatment can provide relief of distressing symptoms sooner than other modalities of therapy. EMDR therapy does not require talking in detail about distressing issues. Rather, EMDR helps the brain process disturbing memories, reducing the emotional charge so that normal healing can resume. By creating and strengthening new pathways in the brain, unprocessed traumatic memories, negative beliefs, and the resulting impacts on daily functioning, are essentially “rewired.” Negative beliefs we hold about ourselves that were previously engrained, no longer hold the power they once did, allowing positive, supportive beliefs to take their place.

For more information on EMDR visit the EMDR website.