EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. Repeated studies show that by using EMDR therapy people can experience the benefits of psychotherapy that once took years to make a difference. It is widely assumed that severe emotional pain requires a long time to heal. EMDR therapy shows that the mind can in fact heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma. The brain’s information processing system naturally moves toward mental health. If the system is blocked or imbalanced by the impact of a disturbing event, the emotional wound festers and can cause intense suffering. Once the block is removed, healing resumes. Using the detailed protocols and procedures learned in EMDR therapy training sessions, clinicians help clients activate their natural healing processes.
According to the EMDR International Association, EMDR can be used to address the following conditions:
- Physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and emotional abuse
- Distressing memories (combat experiences, accidents, physical or sexual assault, etc.)
- Complicated grief
- Substance use
- Phobias (fear of flying, etc.)
- Panic attacks
- Pain disorders
- Dissociation
- Performance anxiety
- Stress reduction
Are you interested in participating in EMDR? Contact us and we can schedule you an appointment at one of our offices. Make sure you tell them you are interested on our Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) services.