Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

How does EMDR work?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) has a direct effect on the way that the brain processes information. When a person is very upset, their brain cannot process the disturbing information as it does normally. One moment becomes frozen in time, and remembering the traumatic event may feel as bad as going through it the first time. The old images, reactions, and feelings haven't changed. Such memories have a lasting negative effect that interferes with the way a person sees the world and the way they relate to other people.

EMDR changes the way the brain processes the information. Normal processing is resumed, so following a successful EMDR session, a person no longer relives the images and feelings when the event is brought to mind. You still remember what happened, but it is less upsetting. EMDR appears to be similar to what occurs naturally during dreaming or REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. Old, stuck memories of disturbing situations are reprocessed. EMDR can be thought of it as a physiologically based therapy that helps a person see disturbing material in a new and less distressing way.

But does EMDR really work?

Approximately twenty controlled studies have investigated the effects of EMDR. The studies have consistently found that EMDR effectively decreases or eliminates the symptoms of post traumatic stress for the majority of clients. Clients often report improvement in other associated symptoms such as depression and anxiety. Research has also shown that EMDR can be a more efficient and rapid treatment as compared to conventional methods. EMDR is often effective for previously intractable conditions. For more information on EMDR, see www.emdrportal.com.

What is the actual EMDR session like?

During EMDR, the therapist works with the client to identify a specific problem as the focus of the treatment session. The client calls to mind the disturbing issue or event, and what was seen, felt, heard, thought, etc. The therapist facilitates dual attention stimulation of the brain through sensory input, while the client focuses on the disturbing material. Each person will process information uniquely, based on personal experiences and values. Sets of stimulation are continued until the memory becomes less disturbing and is associated with positive thoughts and beliefs about one's self. During EMDR, the client may experience intense emotions, but by the end of the session, most people report a great reduction in the level of disturbance.

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1) Fill out the Contact Form and a counselor will call you with 24-hours; 2) Call our offices at 303-933-5800.