Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of psychotherapy that taps in to our brain’s natural ability to move toward healing. EMDR can be used to build up coping strategies and personal resources, as well as work through upsetting experiences, thoughts and feelings.
EMDR is a “whole brain activity”. It engages our thoughts, emotions, body sensations, memories and experiences, using these as “entry points” to begin to work through challenges. By addressing how these things are stored in our brain, our distress is significantly reduced, supporting the development of a greater sense of safety, connection and calm.
EMDR is extensively researched and is supported by the World Health Organization and the American Psychological Association. It was originally developed for the treatment of Veterans experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) over 30 years ago. It continues to be considered “the gold standard” for treating trauma and PTSD.
The word “trauma” is frequently used today, but it’s definition is much broader than you might realize, and it’s impact is further reaching. Many of the experiences that we struggle with most, that have the greatest impact on our lives, are ones we may not even identify as being “traumatic”.
Examples include:
- Growing up with a care-giver who was physically or emotionally unavailable
- Rigid, harsh, unpredictable or critical parenting
- Lack of emotional support or access to a stable person while going though something difficult
- Bullying, shaming or social isolation
- Exposure to unhealthy relationship patterns
- Poverty and lack of access to needed resources
- Generational trauma
These experiences can change our beliefs about ourselves, our sense of connection to others and our overall sense of safety in the world, having a profound impact on our day-to-day functioning.
In addition to PTSD, EMDR can also be beneficial in addressing:
- Phobias and social anxiety
- Single incident traumas, such as motor vehicle accidents and sexual violence
- Persistent negative beliefs
EMDR can be used with youth and adults, as well as children as young as 4 years of age. It is offered both in person and virtually.
Learn more about EMDR and how it can help you:
Interested in EMDR? Book a free consultation with Gillian or reach out for more information.