​Why EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, EMDR, is an extensively researched and scientifically studied therapy technique used by millions of clients and thousands of therapists for almost 35 years.   It intends to treat individuals with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder or other trauma-based afflictions. It is especially effective when treating the effects of a single traumatic event. In some cases, just a few EMDR sessions can aid the day-to-day life of an individual. However, for people who have endured prolonged, complex traumas, the treatment requires more time.

​What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, is a powerful psychotherapy technique that has proven to be highly effective in helping people who suffer from trauma, anxiety, panic, disturbing memories, post-traumatic stress and many other emotional problems. 
Until recently, these conditions were difficult and time-consuming to treat. EMDR is considered a breakthrough therapy because of its simplicity and focus. It targets psychological disorders by directly focusing on the traumatic memories that cause them.  EMDR, as shown by extensive scientific research studies, is the most effective and rapid method for healing PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).

EMDR therapy uses dual attention stimulation (i.e. right/left eye movement, tapping, sounds) that activates both sides of the brain; this, in theory, releases emotional experiences, images, and memories while lessening the physical and psychological impacts of recalling them.  Meaning, you are not at the mercy of your memories when exposed to them, allowing us to better analyze and heal the wounds that they have left behind.
The obstructions between the mind and body are dissolved and the two are able to connect once again to be whole.
More information can be found here: ​https://www.emdria.org/about-emdr-therapy/

​How Does it Work?
The therapist gently works with the client, asking them to revisit a traumatic moment or incident.  They are asked to recall and describe the feelings and negative thoughts that surround the memory.   The therapist then holds their fingers about eighteen inches from the client's face, slowly moving them back and forth like a windshield wiper. The client is asked to track the therapist's finger movements.  This process diverts attention from the recalled memory, lessening emotional distress and allowing for more open analysis and treatment.

​What problems can

be helped with

​EMDR?
​
The studies to date show a high degree of effectiveness with the following conditions:
  • Anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias
  • Chronic Illness and medical issues
  • Depression and bipolar disorders
  • Dissociative disorders
  • Eating disorders
  • Grief and loss
  • Pain and phantom limb pain 
  • Performance anxiety
  • Personality disorders
  • PTSD and other trauma and stress-related issues
  • Sexual assault
  • Sleep disturbance
  • Substance abuse and addiction
  • Violence and abuse
If you would like to learn more about the EMDR, please contact me!

​EMDR for children and

teenagers:
EMDR is recognized by the World Health Organization (2013) as an effective therapy for children and adolescents who have experienced traumatic events. It also has the highest recommendation for Children and Adolescents with PTSD from the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS, 2018).​
It is very common for children and adolescents to feel worried following a trauma. In most cases symptoms improve within a few weeks. Unfortunately, a small percentage will go on to develop symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as other symptoms such as anxiety or hopelessness.
PTSD is caused by an inability to process the traumatic event naturally, often when the traumatic event feels especially overwhelming, shocking or distressing. An indication that your child or teenager may be struggling with symptoms of trauma following a traumatic event may include disturbances (episodes of ‘remembering’ the original event), flashbacks (where the child or adolescent may behave as if they are re-experiencing the original event) or avoidances of reminders of the event alongside behavioral or emotional changes. For some young people, therapy may be beneficial.

​EMDR Videos