What is
EMDR?
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing(EMDR) therapy is a highly effective trauma treatment. This evidence-based therapy is the most researched of trauma therapies and is grounded in neuroscience. EMDR can treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other issues of trauma.
How Can
EMDR Therapy
Help Me?
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy helps the mind heal from psychological trauma much like the body heals from physical trauma. In a relaxed, supported state, EMDR will literally create new neural pathways in the brain, moving the traumatic memories from the short-term memory into long-term memory.
Can we really change our brains?
As a result, while you will still remember what happened, the memories will not have the same effect. You will no longer be hit with jolts of fear, overwhelming sadness or debilitating shame or rage. Your stomach will unclench, the lump in your throat will soften and the weight on your heart will lighten. The negative views of yourself in relationship to the incident(s) will be reframed into positive ones. Rather than feeling in danger, you will know that you are safe.
What is an EMDR Treatment Session Like?
With your therapist you will choose a memory you would like to work on and identify a positive belief you would like to have about yourself. Your therapist will begin a set of bilateral stimulation and almost immediately your body will relax and the disturbing image will begin to soften, blur or seem more distant.
When your memory has been completely processed, you will still remember the event but the visual memory will have changed profoundly and you will no longer be triggered by it.
Best of all, your belief about yourself will have changed from negative to positive. For instance, you might begin with “I should have done something” and end with “I did the best I could” or you begin with “I am unlovable” and end with “I am lovable”.
Our EMDR and Trauma Therapy Practice
Sharing the specific details of your traumatic event is often not necessary in this eye movement therapy. If you do decide to share, we will open the door very slowly and never judge you or your experience. We will work collaboratively to decide what trauma to focus on and the pace that is comfortable for you. Building a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship is key to successful trauma treatment.
We know both personally and professionally the effectiveness of EMDR. This powerful tool accesses the miraculous healing powers of the body. It is truly possible to leave trauma in the past and move on with your life.
Free Phone Consultation
If you’re seeking Trauma Therapy or PTSD Treatment, we invite you to call us for a free 15-minute phone consultation.
Call Stephanie at 310-339-5812 or Lee Ann at 310-980-8988.
