Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) releases the emotions and behaviours of events or people whom may of caused shock, upset, disturbance or stress. It is a powerful treatment method designed to alleviate distress caused by traumatic experiences.
Since its development, EMDR has been extended to many problems other than PTSD, including phobias, generalized anxiety, paranoid schizophrenia, learning disabilities, eating disorders, substance abuse, and even pathological jealousy.
(Beere 1992; Marquis 1991; Shapiro 1989)
How Trauma is Created
Many of our distressing life experiences take place during the course of our childhood and can include hurtful experiences with parents, peers or incidences’. The negative impact on the person’s sense of self takes place since, just as with diagnosed ‘PTSD’ Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, “unprocessed memories” are running the show.
This materialises because the experience was so distressing that it disrupted the information processing system of the brain. One of the jobs of this system is to take distressing experiences to mental adaptation. So if something occurs to us that are distressing, the processing system “digests” the experience and the proper connections are made, while the responses that are no longer valued — such as the negative self-talk, emotions and physical sensations — are let go.
Yet, if an experience is too distressing, it disturbs the system, it will then cause the memory to be stored with the negative emotions, physical sensations and beliefs. Current experiences must link with the memory networks in our brain to be understood. If there is an untreated memory, the negative emotions and sensations can appear and alter our perception of this current situation. In short, the past is present.
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a highly specialized form of psychotherapy designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences and distressing memories. EMDR has been extensively researched and proven effective for treating conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and more.
Why Choose EMDR?
EMDR stands out as a powerful therapeutic approach due to its unique and comprehensive methodology. Here’s how EMDR can benefit you:
- Rapid Healing: EMDR often brings quicker resolution to trauma and distress compared to traditional therapy methods.
- Effective for a Range of Issues: Proven to help with PTSD, anxiety, depression, phobias, and more.
- Holistic Approach: Addresses both the emotional and physiological symptoms of trauma.
How EMDR Can Help You
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a specialized therapy designed to tackle trauma at its core. By facilitating bilateral stimulation and guided eye movements, EMDR helps individuals process distressing memories and emotions, promoting healing and relief. Learn more about how EMDR uniquely approaches trauma and facilitates a path towards recovery.
What to Expect in Our EMDR Sessions
During our EMDR sessions, we will work together through an eight-phase protocol that ensures your safety and comfort:
- History and Treatment Planning: Understanding your background and identifying targets for EMDR.
- Preparation: Learning about the EMDR process and developing coping strategies.
- Assessment: Identifying specific memories to target and establishing baselines.
- Desensitization: Using bilateral stimulation to process and reduce the impact of traumatic memories.
- Installation: Strengthening positive beliefs to replace the negative ones.
- Body Scan: Ensuring the absence of residual physical tension related to the trauma.
- Closure: Ensuring you leave each session feeling safe and in control.
- Reevaluation: Reviewing progress and addressing any remaining issues.
Begin EMDR today
If you’re ready to transform your life and heal from past traumas, I invite you to reach out and schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to harness the power of EMDR and unlock your potential for healing and growth.
Get in touch: contact@thechoicetochange.co.uk or 01494 883815.