EMDR therapy is an evidence-based practice for PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), acute trauma and other traumatic experiences. It is a recommended treatment for these mental health issues by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), The World Health Organization (WHO), the Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense (VA/DOD), and SAMSHA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). It is also used for a variety of other mental health issues (depression, anxiety, panic, phobias, OCD, chronic pain, complicated grief, addictions, etc.) with clinical trials in underway to show efficacy in these additional areas.
EMDR was developed over 30 years ago by Francine Shapiro, PhD. It uses eye movements or other bi-lateral stimulation such as taps or tones, to facilitate reprocessing of maladaptively stored memories. When disturbing, emotionally charged memories are fully reprocessed using this technique, the results are remarkable! People generally find that the memories, and the unwanted emotions and behavior associated with them – such as fear, anxiety, depression, anger, etc. — no longer hold such power over them. After reprocessing people have told me that they feel “free,” “lighter,” able to experience happiness and joy more fully, are more self-confident, and able to move forward in their lives toward positive goals and healthy relationships.
I have done a considerable amount of additional training in EMDR than just the level 2 training. I am an EMDRIA certified therapist, which means I have extensively trained and consulted with EMDR expert trainers and consultants.
If you are interested in EMDR therapy, give me a call today! The links below, including a very recent news story provide more information.
CBS News story about EMDR with a veteran with PTSD
Dateline video on Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR)