EMDR ~ Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
What is EMDR?
In 1987, Dr Francine Shapiro observed in her practice that in stimulating the brain bilaterally (with eye movements) her patients were able to process disturbing thoughts with a decreased intensity. In 1989, after continued observation of patients, a study of Dr. Shapiros was published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress. reporting the success of EMDR in treating victims of trauma. Since then, through contributions of therapists and researchers from around the world, EMDR has developed into a set of protocols incorporating a variety of treatment approaches from various forms of therapy. .What kinds of Problems Can EMDR Treat?
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Panic Attacks
- Complicated Grief
- Dissociative Disorders
- Disturbing Memories
- Anxiety Disorders
- Phobias
- Performance Anxiety
- Stress Reduction
- Addictions
- Sexual &/or Physical Abuse
Why EMDR?
We know that when we experience a traumatic event it is as if the experience is frozen in time. Meaning, the mind remembers the event and includes the original smells, images, sounds, sensations, and feelings that went along with it. Such memories have a lasting effect on how we view ourselves, our world, and how others view us. EMDR allows the individual to go back to the traumatic event and review it in a less distressing manner. What happened is still remembered however it is less disturbing. Thoughts, emotions, memories, and physical sensations are explored and the individual can begin to reprocess the beliefs and messages formally processed at the time of the event. Keep in mind that a traumatic event to one may not seem as traumatic to another and vice versa.To date, there are fourteen controlled studies that support the idea that EMDR works well in the treatment of trauma. Although EMDR was originally tested on patients dealing with trauma, over the years psychotherapists have used EMDR to treat a variety of problems including pain management, addictions, psychological difficulties that stem from abuse or neglect, depression, phobias, grief, anxiety, and others.
What can I expect from an EMDR session?
After a thorough exploration of the individuals' history a specific focus will be decided upon. The patient will then recreate a specific image of the event using all of his/her senses and then asked what thoughts and beliefs are currently held about that specific event. The therapist will then facilitate the bilateral stimulation of the brain (whether it be movement of the eyes, taps, sound with earphones or other) while the patient focuses on the image and notices whatever else may come up. The patient is encouraged to not try to control the content or direction of the focus and to just notice what happens. It is important to note that each individual will have a unique experience and that there is no right or wrong, as the work is based on personal experience and values. Sets of the bilateral stimulation are continued until the memory becomes less disturbing at which time associations of positive beliefs and thoughts are introduced; for example "I am good enough." The patient may experience intense emotions but, by the end of the session most report a decrease in the level of disturbance.For more detailed information please go to my
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