EMDR
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It’s a type of therapy that helps your brain process and heal from difficult or traumatic experiences. EMDR uses guided eye movements (or other forms of bilateral stimulation like tapping or sound) to help the brain reprocess memories so they no longer cause the same level of distress. EMDR is a specialized therapy designed to help people recover from trauma, anxiety, and other distressing life experiences. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions people have before starting EMDR.
What kinds of issues can EMDR help with?
EMDR is most well-known for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but it can also help with anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, depression, grief, performance anxiety, and negative self-beliefs.
How is EMDR different from other therapies?
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn’t require you to go into detail about the trauma or event. It focuses on changing how your brain stores the memory so it becomes less emotionally charged.
What happens during an EMDR session?
The therapist will guide you through a series of steps: history taking, preparing you with coping tools, identifying target memories, and using bilateral stimulation while you focus on certain aspects of the memory. The goal is to reduce the emotional intensity connected to that memory.
Will I lose control or forget my memories during EMDR?
No. You are awake, alert, and in control during EMDR. You won’t forget the memory, but it will feel less upsetting and less intrusive after reprocessing.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on your goals, history, and the issues you’re addressing. Some people notice changes after a few sessions, while others may need longer-term work.
Is EMDR safe?
Yes, when conducted by a trained EMDR therapist. You may feel emotional during or after a session, but your therapist will give you tools to manage any distress and ensure you feel safe.
What does bilateral stimulation mean?
This means stimulating both sides of your brain in a rhythmic way, often through side-to-side eye movements, taps, or sounds. This helps the brain process information in a more balanced and healthy way.
Do I have to talk about my trauma?
Not in detail. Unlike some therapies, EMDR focuses more on what you’re feeling and thinking now, rather than telling the whole story of the event.
Will EMDR work for me?
Many people experience significant relief from EMDR, but like any therapy, results vary. We provide a complimentary consultation to assess if EMDR is a good fit for your needs.
Is EMDR Evidence-Based?
Yes. EMDR is considered an evidence-based treatment, particularly for trauma-related conditions. Multiple randomized controlled
trials, meta-analyses, and clinical guidelines (including those from the American Psychiatric Association, the Department of Veterans Affairs/Department of Defense, and the World Health Organization) recognize EMDR as an effective intervention for trauma.
*EMDR Services are a self-pay service.