EMDR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a highly effective, evidenced-based and integrative approach for symptoms of trauma and stress. This therapy is used with both children and adults, helping the brain process and cope with painful experiences. EMDR therapy is used to reduce anxiety and post-traumatic stress symptoms, such as intrusive thoughts, nightmares and flashbacks.

The goal of EMDR is to help you move past, or process stuck thoughts and feelings, so you can reduce painful memories and move towards healing. Your brain is wired to act as if in danger (flight, fight, freeze), in which EMDR therapy helps you reprocess events and experiences in a way where your brain no longer perceives the threat.

Your therapist will use bi-lateral (or dual attention) stimulation using eye-movements, sounds, tapping, or vibrations in your hands. These left to right movements mimic the same rapid eye movements during sleep, when your brain is most activated and processing your day. EMDR helps do this while you are awake and can work to shift your thoughts, feelings and body sensations to a more positive perspective. 

Learn more about EMDR from the EMDR Institute, Inc.