EMDR Therapy

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What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a breakthrough, integrative psychotherapy proven to effectively treat survivors of psychological trauma and many types of emotional distress.  It is known as the "gold standard" for the treatment of trauma. 

How does EMDR work?

EMDR follows an eight-phase protocol to enable a natural healing process.  Through the use of bilateral stimulation, the brain's information-processing system becomes activated and assists in the desensitization of targeted disturbing material so that one can learn to integrate it into a more adaptive way of living.

In other words, EMDR positively impacts our brain functioning, allowing for upsetting events to be remembered without the associated distress and disturbing symptoms.  A fully processed targeted memory in EMDR will no longer produce nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, negative self concept or emotional distress when recalled. 

What does a typical EMDR session look like?

During our first couple sessions together, I will work together with you to better understand those issues or situations that are most troubling to you.  This can be an issue or event that is currently upsetting or one from the past.  Some sample targets for EMDR might be; a past or recent traumatic event, negative beliefs, relationship problems, multiple relapses, panic attacks, performance anxiety and more. 

Once we have pinpointed potential targets for EMDR treatment, we can begin processing using bilateral stimulation.  This can be in the form of eye movements or alternating taps or tones.  You will select the method you feel most comfortable with before actual processing begins.  Throughout EMDR sessions, I will guide you as material connected to the original target is processed.  You are completely in control of each EMDR session.

I'm interested, but is it for me? I don't have PTSD or a history of trauma. 

While EMDR is recognized by the American Psychiatric Association, International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, and U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs and Department of Defenses as an effective, evidence-based practice for the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) it has also proven to treat the following:

  • Addictions  
  • Panic attacks
  • Performance anxiety
  • Complicated grief
  • Stress reduction
  • Eating disorders
  • Phobias
  • Disturbing memories
  • Dissociative disorders 
  • Complex trauma 
  • Sexual and/or physical abuse
  • Pain disorders
  • Body dysmorphic disorders

If you'd like to learn more about EMDR to determine if it's a good fit for you, call today for a free phone consultation or send inquires by e-mail: maggie@maggiespeltz.com.