EMDR (EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION REPROCESSING)

EMDR is an interesting and complex approach to psychotherapy that incorporates much of the wisdom of other therapies.  Although most people have come to associate it with eye movement, the fact is that EMDR is an accelerated form of information processing that includes an eight phase approach and numerous procedural elements that contribute to its success.  EMDR is used within a comprehensive treatment plan to promote your recovery from your difficulties.

When disturbing experiences happen, they are stored in the brain with all the sights, sounds, thoughts and feelings that accompany it. When a person is very upset, the brain seems to be unable to process the experience as it would normally. Therefore, the negative thoughts and feelings of the traumatic event are “trapped” in the nervous system. Since the brain cannot process these emotions, the experience and/or its accompanying feelings are often suppressed from consciousness. However, the distress lives on in the nervous system where it causes disturbances in the emotional functioning of the person.  The EMDR Technique does two very important things. First, it “unlocks” the negative memories and emotions stored in the nervous system, and second, it helps the brain to successfully process the experience.

Many psychotherapists have been working with EMDR to assist people with many types of problems including pain management, addictions, problems that stem from early psychological problems from abuse or neglect, anxiety, depression and others.  EMDR is also used to enhance performance. The effects EMDR, integrated into executive coaching, have been researched most recently.  Findings suggest that EMDR is a promising adjunct to coaching for workplace performance enhancement.

The EMDR treatment can evoke strong emotions or sensations during a session. This is perfectly normal and desirable, since the technique works on the negative feelings when they are brought you’re your awareness. However, the re-experiencing of these unpleasant feelings is brief and they will soon leave you when the process is completed.  If you will persevere through the upsetting memories for a short time, you will likely be thrilled with the outcome of the therapy. Relief occurs rapidly, and for many, permanently.

From time to time, some clients experience unusual thoughts or vivid dreams that may or may not have any meaning. This is part of the releasing process and should not cause undue concern. Actually, unusual experiences during the time period of the EMDR therapy indicates that it is working.

EMDR is most effective when used in conjunction with other modes of therapy. We will discuss a plan of treatment ahead of time so you will generally know what to expect. Usually, several sessions are necessary in order for me to properly evaluate whether or not EMDR is the appropriate choice of therapy. To find out more about EMDR check out www.EMDR.com