EMDR
What is EMDR?
EMDR is an acronym for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a comprehensive, phased treatment approach (developed in 1989 by psychologist Francine Shapiro), that has been extensively researched and proven to be effective for the treatment of trauma-based disorders.
EMDR therapy is a formal set of protocols and procedures used to “desensitize and reprocess: memories that have been stored in the brain and body as if “frozen in time” as a result of traumatic experiences or painful life events. EMDR uses “bilateral stimulation” most commonly with eye movements to help reorganize the way the memory was stored in your mind. A person’s mind doesn’t know “time.” This is why sometimes you have a strong reaction to a present situation that might not seem appropriate for the current situation.
EMDR can be a supplemental or stand-alone treatment to talk therapy. My approach is using it supplementally. It is a safe method for alleviating psychological impact of traumatic experiences.
An EMDR therapist must go through extensive training beyond their clinical license to practice this method of psychotherapy. Make sure that your therapist has the proper certification and training in EMDR therapy before you accept treatment of this kind.
EXAMPLES OF PROBLEMS HELPED WITH EMDR
- PTSD
- Addictions
- Depression and Anxiety
- Panic Attacks
- Traumatic Grief
- Low Self Esteem
- Anger/Rage
- Performance Anxiety