Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapeutic technique designed to process emotional distress linked to traumatic experiences. It integrates the mind and body through the process of bilateral stimulation, typically using eye movements or tapping. In EMDR sessions, clients recall distressing memories while following the therapist’s hand or receiving alternating tactile stimuli. This bilateral stimulation helps the brain process unresolved trauma, reprocessing it in a way that reduces its emotional intensity.
The effects of EMDR can be transformative, leading to a reduction in symptoms of anxiety, PTSD, and other trauma-related disorders. Many clients report feeling relief from the emotional charge of painful memories, allowing them to think about past events without feeling overwhelmed. It can empower them to regain control over their thoughts and feelings, helping them build a more positive self-image and move forward in their life.
EMDR is particularly effective for individuals who have experienced trauma, but its reach extends to improving overall emotional well-being and resilience in various life challenges. EMDR has wide-ranging applications, including:
- Trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
- Acute Trauma
- Childhood Trauma
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Abuse
- Chronic Stress
- Grief
- Phobias
- Perfectionism
- Shame
- Unresolved anger
EMDR sessions are typically 80 minutes in length to ensure sufficient time for check-in, processing of traumatic content, and regulation.
Please reach out if you have any questions or are curious if EMDR is an approach that might be beneficial for your issue. To learn more about this modality, you can also visit the websites EMDR Canada or the EMDR International Association.