Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a therapeutic approach commonly used to treat trauma. Traumatic memories often become stuck, making them easily triggered in daily life. This can lead to re-experiencing the trauma emotionally, mentally, or even physically, disrupting one’s ability to function, especially in situations that remind them of the past. For instance, someone with medical trauma may experience intense fear in medical settings, which can hinder their ability to receive the care they need.

Prior to starting processing in EMDR and with any form of trauma treatment the therapist will ensure that clients have learned and are implementing distress tolerance and emotion regulation skills. After preparation work is complete you will be able to begin working through your trauma using EMDR. EMDR is a form of therapy that bilateral stimulation to mimic REM sleep a time in which brains process events. By coupling bilateral stimulation with the therapists guidance clients are able to process and release these past events, allowing them to stay in the past and no longer interfere with present life. It’s like carrying a heavy backpack of bricks—EMDR allows you to set it down, freeing you from the weight of the past.