Have you heard of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)? This type of therapy has been around since 2001, but it has only recently started to become popular in the therapeutic world. EMDR is a type of trauma-focused therapy that encourages clients to briefly focus on their trauma while also experiencing bilateral stimulation, usually through tapping or guided eye movements. In this way, the vividness and emotion associated with the traumatic memory is reduced, allowing the individual to move on without being triggered or affected by repressed emotions. In this blog post, we will explore the power of EMDR therapy and how it can be used as a safe and nurturing experience for trauma survivors.
What Is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a specific form of psychotherapy developed by Francine Shapiro in 1989 that combines elements from cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, neurobiology, mindfulness meditation practices, and energy psychology. It is an evidence-based approach to healing past traumas that involves activating both hemispheres of the brain at the same time through bilateral stimulation like alternating eye movements or alternating tapping on both sides of the body. This activation allows the brain to reprocess memories more effectively, leading to a reduction in emotional distress associated with those memories.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR works by helping individuals to process their traumatic memories in a different way so that they are no longer emotionally triggering or distressing. First, a therapist will help an individual identify a traumatic event or memory as well as any residual symptoms still present after the event such as anxiety or depression. Then together they will work through a series of steps designed to help process these memories and reduce associated symptoms. During these steps, bilateral stimulation such as eye movements or tapping is used to activate both hemispheres of the brain simultaneously which helps rewire neural pathways associated with traumatic memories so that they are no longer emotionally distressing.
At its core, EMDR is about healing from past traumas and enabling individuals to live more fulfilling lives. It may not be right for everyone, but it can be an incredibly powerful tool for those who have experienced trauma in their lives and want to find relief from its effects. If you are looking for ways to heal past traumas then consider talking with your therapist about whether EMDR could be right for you! With proper guidance and support you can use this powerful technique to start living life with less fear and more joy.
Interested to learn more?
If you’d like to experience the power of EMDR therapy, get in touch with Caroline today.
Contact Caroline today
Move forward with EMDR Therapy
Click Here
