A Quick Look at EMDR
Our brains are constantly processing the information we receive every day and storing it as memories for us to use later. When someone experiences a traumatic event they often have very strong negative feelings associated with it, which can disrupt the brain’s information processing. When this process is disrupted, this memory can be incorrectly stored and left unprocessed. When a person has experienced something traumatic and the memory is dysfunctionally stored in their brains, recalling it can cause him or her to feel severe emotional disturbances or even physical symptoms, even though logically they know they should not be feeling this way.
What Is EDMR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing or EMDR, involves reprocessing disturbing memories that may be the cause of psychological disturbances. EMDR can help someone change the way that memory is stored so that contains more adaptive and logical information. Participants are supported as they recall difficult memories through an eight-step process. Although Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is most recognized for its use in treating trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with adults and children, EMDR can also be used to treat a variety of other problems such as depression and anxiety. EMDR can only be used by practitioners who are certified and trained in this approach.
Why Should Someone Seek EMDR Treatment?
EMDR is an evidence-based treatment option for trauma, depression, and anxiety
It is effective for processing disturbing events and memories
It can help resolve problems quicker than traditional talk therapy
It enables an individual to develop healthy coping skills