What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a unique, evidence-based therapy that uses eye movements or bi-lateral stimulation to access the brain’s natural ability to heal. When someone experiences a traumatic/disturbing event, the emotions, thoughts, and sensations can get “stuck.” The memory is stored in a way that is fragmented and disconnected from new, adaptive learning. When faced with present day triggers, your brain/body may automatically respond through the lens of those old, painful events. Through EMDR, your brain will resume it’s natural healing process so that you still remember the event, but let go of painful emotions, beliefs, and sensations.
While EMDR was initially developed to treat trauma, it can be applied to a range of challenges including: anxiety, negative self-talk, limiting beliefs, adverse childhood experiences, attachment wounds, grief, and more.
This video was created by EMDRIA (EMDR International Association), and gives a more thorough explanation of the EMDR process.
I completed EMDR Basic Training through Rick Levinson, LCSW, an EMDRIA-Approved Basic Training Provider (Rick is featured in the video above). I am currently pursuing EMDR Certification through ongoing consultation and training.