Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful and effective therapeutic method that can help people heal from trauma and other stressful life experiences. EMDR therapy is based on the idea that our brains have a natural capacity to heal from trauma and this process can sometimes stop or become stuck. EMDR helps to reactivate the healing process and resolve the traumatic experiences that are causing problems in our lives.
EMDR therapy works by using bilateral stimulation (BLS) to help people process traumatic memories. BLS is a form of alternating stimulation to the left and right sides of the body, such as eye movements, tapping, or tones. BLS is thought to help the brain to process traumatic memories in a more adaptive way. EMDR retains your memories and reduces the intense emotions that often accompany them as well as the felt-sense that memories are occurring in the present time.
EMDR is structured and goal-oriented. In each session, the therapist will work with you to identify a specific traumatic memory to target. You will then focus on the target while engaging in BLS. The therapist will guide you through the process, helping to process the memory and develop new ways of coping with it.
EMDR therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions, including:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Phobias
- Grief and loss
- Pain
- Chronic illness
EMDR is a safe and effective therapy method that can help people to heal from trauma and live happier and healthier lives.
Why choose EMDR?
There are many reasons to choose EMDR therapy, including:
- EMDR is a research-based therapy that has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions.
- EMDR is a relatively short-term therapy, with many people experiencing relief in just a few sessions.
- EMDR is a non-invasive therapy that does not require you to talk about your trauma in detail.
Dr. Persson is an EMDR therapist. Contact her to discuss if EMDR may be a good option for you.