What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is an evidenced-based psychotherapy treatment developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the 1980’s. EMDR is effective for resolving emotional difficulties caused by disturbing, difficult, or frightening life experiences. When an upsetting, scary or painful experience happens, sometimes the memory of the experience stays “stuck” or “frozen” in the mind and body. The experience may return in a distressing and intrusive way. EMDR helps resolve the troubling thoughts and feelings related to the distressing memories so that you can return to normal tasks and prior levels of coping.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR therapy was originally developed to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). EMDR is a widely respected treatment for trauma, and effective in the treatment for anxiety, depression, phobias, grief, and adjustment to adverse life experiences. EMDR targets the past experiences, current triggers, and potential challenges, so that you have a decrease of distress from the disturbing memory. EMDR is commonly used in conjunction with standard “talking” therapy.
A typical EMDR session lasts from 60 to 90 minutes. The type of problem, life circumstances and the amount of previous trauma will determine how many treatment sessions are necessary.
What does this therapy look like?
We build a solid foundation of trust and safety in our initial sessions together. This allows you to ease into what some find to be a more intense form of therapy. We do not rush the process. As the foundation builds we work together on containment skills to prepare you for the reprocessing stage. Sessions can vary from 50 to 90 minutes.
8 phases in treatment:
- Phase 1: History and Treatment Planning
- Phase 2: Preparation
- Phase 3: Assessment
- Phase 4: Desensitization
- Phase 5: Installation
- Phase 6: Body Scan
- Phase 7: Closure
- Phase 8: Reevaluation
Do You Want to Learn More?
- EMDR International Association
- Video: Amen Clinic, What is EMDR? – Your Best Brain, Your Best Options
“The past affects the present even without our being aware of it.” – Francine Shapiro
EMDR and Children/Teens
Can EMDR be Used With Children?
Yes, EMDR can be used with children and teens. The EMDR process is different for each child or teen, because the healing process is guided from within. EMDR has been used to help children deal with traumatic events, depression, anxiety, phobias and other behavioral problems.
A typical EMDR treatment session begins in a positive way by having children use their imagination to strengthen their sense of confidence and well-being.
Call for a consultation appointment: (561) 818-6964