EMDR THERAPY
Ever wonder why an event for one person is traumatic or disturbing while another person with the same or similar event has no issues. Well, this has more to do with the brain, then the actual event experienced. When the brain attempts to process and store an event or memory, it can become what is called “stuck” being processed. This usually happens because we have a negative belief about ourselves concerning the event. The brain, in a sense, gets short circuited and remains unable to store the memory properly. This “stuck” processing can manifest in several ways such as, impacting current life experiences, flashbacks, and somatic responses, even if we do not realize the two are connected. The brain’s natural processing and filing of our life events occurs during REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) taps into this same natural process while you are awake.
EMDR is a method of psychotherapy that has been used for over 30 years to release the “stuck” events and memories that are overwhelming experiences by reorganizing the memory and our feelings about ourselves connected to the event. During the EMDR process, the individual’s perceptions of the experience immediately begin to shift, negative beliefs change to a positive perspective, tensions and somatic responses are released in the body, and emotions relax. EMDR helps the brain when it is unable to successfully process and store the event during normal REM sleep and therefore, allows the memory to safely process and integrate as all other memories.
EMDR can be used with disturbing experiences, as well as, other issues such as self-esteem and performance concerns. EMDR creates amazing results and deep healing experiences that regular talk therapy would be unable to resolve. EMDR is one of the most researched types of psychotherapy and can be used for the majority of therapeutic needs. EMDR is not a good fit for everyone, and we can discuss if EMDR is a good option for your needs.
MaryEllen McCloud, LPC is an EMDRIA approved Trained EMDR Therapist. To inquire more about EMDR therapy, please contact MaryEllen
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EMDR International Association
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