EMDR

• What is EMDR?

  EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) has been a profoundly powerful treatment, particularly for those affected by trauma and other stress related mental health problems. EMDR, considered the Gold Standard of trauma treatment, can help clients quickly and effectively unlock memories and negative beliefs.

• How does EMDR work?

  Often people cannot process information when they’re upset so moments become frozen in time. Memories can then have a negative lasting effect, interfering with how we see and respond to the world and other people.

  EMDR assists in helping the brain re-process information from past events. Following treatment, memories remain but will have lost their disturbing power.

  Eye Movements or “Bilateral Stimulation” (BLS) is the original method of turning on the brain’s innate ability to heal and recover from the impact of trauma. One particular aspect of EMDR is the use of “Eye Movement” believed to enable the brain to reprocess traumatic events in a way that allows for a more functional assimilation of the information. EMDR is believed to correct distorted thoughts and beliefs that occur following exposure to traumatic events.

• How do we know that it works?

  EMDR has been well researched and studied since it was discovered in 1987 by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D. Millions of people affected by trauma or stress have found relief. These people have freely told their stories hoping that others will have the opportunity to experience the same healing treatment.

EMDR has been endorsed as a first line treatment by the following:

• World Health Organization American Psychiatric Association
• Department of Defense (DoD)
• Department of Veterans Affairs
• American Psychological Association (APA)
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMSHA)

Helpful Information:

• Emdria.org
• Emdr.com
• Ptsd.va.gov/public/treatment/therapy-med/emdr-for-ptsd.asp