What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.  This relatively new, cutting edge therapy has proven results and offers hope and healing to anyone suffering with disturbing memories.  EMDR has shown to be extremely effective treating military veterans struggling with PTSD.  This type of therapy has also been successful in treating individuals with trauma, addictions, anxiety, depression, disturbing memories, pain disorders, panic attacks, performance anxiety, stress reduction, among other issues.

When a memory becomes “stuck” the brain struggles to process the information causing the memory to get locked in the brain with the images, sounds, smells, along with the negative feelings held at that time.  These memories can have a lasting negative effect that interferes with the way the person sees themselves, others, and the world.  EMDR looks at how past experiences along with their negative beliefs stuck in our memories are influencing our present perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors.  Change is created through rapid eye movements, tapping, or audio tones to simulate both the left and right sides of the brain, similar to the natural healing process that occurs when we have REM sleep.

EMDR works by helping the person see the disturbing memory in a new and less distressing way which has been blocking their way to a better life.  The results are astonishing as individuals work to develop their own internal resources to create more positive results with themselves and the world around them.

To find out more about EMDR, please visit EMDRIA International Association’s website at: https://www.emdria.org/default.aspx