.png)
What is EMDR Therapy?
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy was developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in 1987 to help individuals struggling with trauma. EMDR is a structured therapeutic approach including eight phases that helps clients reprocess distressing and traumatic memories.
EMDR differs from talk therapy as it focuses more on activating the brain’s healing process by using bilateral stimulation rather than talk therapy. Bilateral stimulation enhances memory processing and can be utilized in various methods, including eye movements, tapping, or sounds.
EMDR allows clients to process traumatic and distressing memories, which reduces their negative emotional states. For instance, during EMDR therapy, a client recalls a traumatic memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation simultaneously, helping the brain process the event.
Can EMDR help me?
EMDR was originally developed to help clients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); however, EMDR therapy has expanded and is effective in treating various disorders, including:
Depression
Anxiety and panic disorders
Phobias
Grief and loss
Addiction
Chronic pain
EMDR can be particularly helpful for clients who have difficulty verbalizing their experiences or struggle with traditional talk therapy. However, it is crucial to note that EMDR might not be suitable for everyone and is best to talk to your therapist about it. Call us to find out if EMDR can benefit you, today!
References:
Shapiro, F. (2001). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing: Basic principles, protocols and procedures, 2nd Edition. New York: Guilford Press.
Chen, Y. R., Hung, K. W., & Tsai, J. C. (2014). Meta-analysis of EMDR and its effectiveness in PTSD. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 70(9), 842–847.
Kommentare