Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is interactive psychotherapy technique used to relieve psychological stress. It can be used to treat a variety of illnesses and symptoms such as: Anxiety, Phobias, Panic Disorders and Trauma. This practice is still fairly new but is quickly becoming a popular alternative and a great addition to talk therapy.
What to Expect?
- Phase 1 – History gathering sessions, this is how every therapy session starts; learning about you
- Phase 2 – Preparation/Assessment, our trained EMDR Therapists will answer all of the questions you have regarding treatment
- Phase 3 through 6 – targeting a traumatic event, then desensitizing and reprocessing said memory
- EMDR patients are usually told to recall a distressing event
- While recalling said event(s), the patient will repeat a repetitive gesture like tapping, moving the eyes side to side, or they may hold onto something that produces a rhythmic vibrating frequency. This is called bilateral stimulation.
- Phases 7 & 8 – Closure and evaluation, distressing thoughts/memories are locked away sometimes using imagery and you and your EMDR therapist will discuss your progress
Bilateral Stimulation is Key
- a relaxation effect
- the problem/distressing event seems more distant
- overall one is more removed from the event, almost like watching the event instead of reliving it
- Bilateral Stimulation allows one to look at and assess the event with less emotional and psychological attachment
EMDR allows the patient to relax and revisit a distressing experience and recall the feelings and emotions that were felt at the time. This allows patients to confront negative emotions in a safe and controlled place, with the intent to overcome them. Connections Wellness Group has a team of exceptionally trained EMDR Therapists capable of utilizing the detailed protocols of EMDR. We take you through the whole eight part process of EMDR to make sure you have a productive experience. If you are interested or have any questions in regards to EMDR please contact us.
