EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a therapeutic process that engages the brain’s natural healing abilities. EMDR is based on the Adaptive information processing (AIP) model suggesting traumatic events can disrupt the brain’s ability to process information causing memories to become stored in a maladaptive form. These memories can be triggered by specific environmental circumstances and can cause distress in the present. The EMDR therapist will guide clients through identifying negative beliefs and use bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, music, sounds or tactile options to help remove obstacles to information processing and lead to a reduction in trauma symptoms.
EMDR therapy was originally aimed at treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) but has since become a highly effective therapeutic approach for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, phobias, and other trauma-related conditions. For over 40 years, clinicians around the world have adopted EMDR as a valuable tool in their therapeutic toolbox, helping countless individuals navigate the complexities of their emotional fissures.
Different than other forms of therapy, EMDR does not rely heavily on talking. The client decides how much of the distressing issue they want to disclose and the therapist works alongside them to properly store past distressing or traumatic memories. EMDR uses 8 phases, which your therapist will teach you about, to resolve unprocessed memories and continue in the healing process. The length of treatment is unique to each client, and within the first few sessions your therapist may have a better idea about how often sessions should occur and roughly how long therapy may take. Past experiences will still be remembered, but because the memory will be properly processed, the really big emotions one feels about that past experience will be resolved. If you feel broken by a traumatic experience or carry a heavy emotional weight, this therapy is a valuable tool on your healing path to wholeness.
At Centennial Park our therapists are experts at integrating this therapeutic technique into a wider plan for mental wellness while honoring each individual’s unique journey to encompass a fuller perspective of your mind, body, soul, and spirit. This can be a deeply rewarding experience on your path to healing.
