What Is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) is a therapeutic process utilizing eye movements, sound or pulsations to stimulate both hemispheres of the brain. Focusing on a distressful (or positive) experience brings about changes in the brain that, when completed, brings a person more in a state of balance.
The experience of EMDR is uniquely individual: It can be very intense, or relatively mild. Some clients have described the process as putting together fragments of thought and memory into a cohesive whole.
What is an EMDR Session Like?
One of the most intriguing things about EMDR therapy is that it can be used to reduce distress as well as increase a sense of well-being. That is why the same technique can be used both for PTSD symptoms brought on by a horrifying traumatic event . . . and also for performance enhancement in the workplace.
Although a single distressing incident may resolve in a few sessions with EMDR, if your symptoms are a product of many traumas or an extended period of intense stress such as an abusive childhood, extensive preparation may be necessary. Your emotional safety is essential to this process, and EMDR works best in a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship.
... And Does It Work?
Many people have experienced outstanding results with this research-based therapeutic process, originated and developed by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D. Researchers have been studying the effects of EMDR on the brain to explain its success, and although there are many theories to explain its effectiveness, we don't really know how it works. However, even without a full explanation, there is plenty of research to show that it is very effective.
Whether your goal is to repair the damage of trauma, develop relationship skills, or enhance work or personal performance, brain changes have to occur. EMDR therapy combines the best of everything we know about change, along with quality connection with a compassionate, non-judgmental therapist.
The EMDR Therapist Network: We are professionals skilled in the therapeutic use of EMDR and we support your quest for health, happiness and well-being.
Find an EMDR Therapist
The EMDR Therapist Network serves the states of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon,
Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington.
