EMDR

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and was developed by a psychologist named Francine Shapiro in 1987. EMDR is a therapeutic approach that operates on the belief that stress and trauma are not just a mental event, but are also stored in the body. This can look like a distressing event triggering physical and emotional responses, even years after it happened. EMDR integrates elements of mental, emotional, and physical experiences to address healing emotional distress and trauma. 

From a holistic perspective, I view healing using EMDR as a mind-body-spirit process, emphasizing the connection between thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and overall well-being. The goal of EMDR is to release trauma, stress or “stuck memories” from the nervous system by engaging in eye movements, tapping, or using audio tones bilaterally (alternating left and right). Bilateral movements in a therapeutic setting have been shown to be incredibly effective in working through trauma to a more balanced nervous system.

EMDR follows a structured yet flexible process to help clients heal from distressing memories or trauma. While each session is based on the individual, the process follows a general flow including preparation work, processing with bilateral stimulation (BLS) and finding closure. This process can occur anywhere from few to several sessions, depending on the individual.

During the preparation stage, you and I will work to establish and use self soothing and grounding techniques. These are important to use both in and outside of therapeutic sessions. We will also discuss the work, or “targets”, for EMDR.

During “reprocessing sessions”, BLS (bilateral stimulation) is used while focusing on the “target” and is done in one of three ways; visually, physically or auditory. Visual BLS is done with my hand or with a lightbar with a moving blue light; physical BLS is performed using vibration or tapping; and auditory BLS is performed using a headset and tones (in office only).

Closure of session ensures you are feeling grounded and back in the present moment before ending the session. This may use calming, self soothing, and safe place techniques.