What is EMDR? (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing)

EMDR is a structured therapy that allows you to provide a history of the event without having to go into detail.  

With EMDR sometimes our experiences get stored in memories that keep us stuck in the present day. Our nervous system has over adapted based on these experiences in the past. The old experience gets triggered and then we may have symptoms of anxiety, depression, nightmares, flashbacks, hypervigilance. 

The goal of EMDR therapy is to completely process the traumatic experiences that are causing problems and to include new ones needed for reduced symptoms.  The amount of time it will take to complete EMDR treatment for traumatic experiences will depend on history.  Targeting a memory involves a three-pronged protocol to alleviate symptoms

The three prongs include:

1. past memories
2. present disturbance
3. future actions

We will utilize Bilaterial stimulation (BLS) in EMDR which unlocks the nervous system and allow your brain to process the stuck experiences.  You will be asked to focus on a difficult memory and directed to move your eyes side to side or tapping (other options for stimulation are available). I will be guiding you and working within your level of comfort. After your traumatic memories get processed, you will get to “install” a positive perspective about yourself regarding the event. For example, you may go from thinking that you are helpless to thinking that you are in control. 

There is a lot of evidenced based research on the effects of Bilaterial stimulation which is similar to REM Sleep. REM sleep is a vital part of sleep that allows us to process through the day. The eye movements that occur in REM are believed to be a side effect of your brains processing in your sleep. 

If it's one thing I have witnessed in my practice, it is the power of healing.  If you're tired of thinking "this is the new normal and I just need to move on"; it doesn't have to be that way.  Patterns have a way of repeating themselves until we "feel them to heal them". Yes, I know it's cliche and it's so true!

If you are willing to be here, trust the process and do some work I guarantee you your quality of life will improve as you'll feel the power of growth and getting unstuck in the yuck of the past.