What is EMDR therapy? Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR therapy accesses the body/brain's natural healing ability through the use of focused awareness and bi-lateral stimulation. Bi-lateral stimulation refers to any means of activating both sides of the brain, such as eye-movement or tapping. Rather than have an individual re-experience the traumatic event (potentially causing more trauma), EMDR promotes healing without overwhelming the nervous system. Some people find relief in talking about a traumatic or overwhelming event, but don't find resolution. The problems associated with trauma do not go away. The story is important; however trauma resides in the body, not in the story. EMDR helps by reprocessing traumatic material without overwhelming the nervous system.
When we are injured by trauma, including attachment trauma, we often go through the motions of life without feeling vital or engaged in life. We feel lost and disconnected. We hope our lives can get better and at the same time feel hopeless. Trauma, however, is an injury, not a disorder. We can move through it and transform it with EMDR and increased Somatic focus.
What kind of problems does EMDR treat? Scientific research has established EMDR as effective for post traumatic stress. However, clinicians also have reported success using EMDR in treatment of the following conditions: Panic Attacks; Complicated Grief; Dissociative Disorders; Disturbing Memories; Phobias, Pain Disorders, Performance Anxiety, Stress Reduction, Addictions, Sexual and/or Physical Abuse, Body Dysmorphic Disorders, Personality Disorders