Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing(EMDR)
What is EMDR and why is this so important? Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a technique designed to remove the profound effects of prior traumatic experiences.
When we suffer in silence, it is often that our emotional problems and destructive behavioral patterns feel like they are impossible to overcome when fueled by the ongoing influence of trauma. Change requires the working through these memories and/or experiences. EMDR is a powerfully effective therapy that helps in how we suffer with the pain from trauma, even when events are repressed or forgotten. It helps the unconscious and thought blocking defense mechanisms to back down and desired changes are able to be resolved and cleared out.
EMDR is particularly effective in the treatment of victims of accidents and crimes, emotional, physical and sexual abuse, PTSD, loss, performance anxiety and anxiety/panic. It is also becoming quietly wide known for use with people who suffer from eating disorders, history of cutting issues, as well as substance abuse disorders. Whether the trauma is a single incident or something to which someone is exposed over a long period of time, EMDR can provide quick and lasting relief.
Before beginning EMDR treatment, you should gain a good therapeutic rapport with your therapist and feel comfortable.
The EMDR process varies for each person, and could be a faster or slower process depending on the issue or core issues in a person’s life. When discussing EMDR understand the process fully so you don’t get confused on why you might feel that you aren’t “finished” or “completed” yet.
EMDR therapy is an accepted treatment for PTSD by the American Psychological Association (APA), Veterans Administration (VA), the Department of Defense (DOD) and The International Society for Traumatic Stress (ISTSS).