Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based treatment for trauma, and can also be used for others types of distress. EMDR is an experiental treatment that changes the way traumatic memories are stored in the brain therefore reducing the distress associated with these memories. We will begin with increasing your resources to manage distress, or the reactions that occur when you are reminded of your traumatic experiences. Once you are ready we will engage in trauma processing. Many prefer EMDR, because it doesn’t require you to talk in detail about your traumatic memories. All I will ask you to do is bring the memory into your awareness. While you focus on the memory I will engage you in bilateral stimulation which can be eye movements, tones, or taps. This process is similar to what occurs during REM sleep, and will reduce the vividness and intensity of the memory as well as allow us to update the memory with new more adaptive information. EMDR is one of the most widely recognized and respected treatments for trauma, and I am proud to share this with those I serve.