EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an integrative psychotherapy approach that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. It has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of traumatic events.
EMDR is used in conjunction with other traditional methods of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and solution-focused techniques. One of the biggest benefits of EMDR is that it can help to resolve conditions more rapidly than when using only traditional therapy methods. Recent studies have shown that the benefits of this type of therapy include continuous mental health improvement even after therapy is terminated.
EMDR can be very successful in helping people who suffer from a variety of conditions, including:
- Trauma
- Anxiety
- Panic
- Depression
- Disturbing Memories
- Grief
- Phobias & Overwhelming Fears
- Low Self-Esteem
- Post-Traumatic Stress
- Physical & Sexual Abuse
- Relationship & Trust Problems
- Excessive Brooding & Worrying
- Performance & Test Anxiety
- Guilt & Shame
Experiences which contribute to emotional distress can include:
- Assault
- Rape
- Work Accident
- Death of a Loved One
- Robbery
- Natural Disaster
- Car Accident
- Fire
- Injury
- Witnessing or Being a Victim of Violent Crimes
- Childhood Abuse & Trauma
- Toxic Relationships
- Excessive Loss (Divorce, Death, Natural or Man-Made Disaster)
Unlike cognitive-behavioral therapy with a trauma focus, EMDR does not involve (a) detailed descriptions of the event, (b) direct challenging of beliefs, (c) extended exposure, or (d) homework. This can make it easier for people who don’t want to go through every detail of their past, or those who want to come in and work on their issues, but then leave it at the therapy office until the next session. I have advanced training in EMDR through the EMDR Institute and am a member of EMDRIA – the EMDR International Association.
Want to know more? I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation where we can determine if EMDR and working together would be a good fit for you. I’m looking forward to hearing from you.
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