Offering EMDR both Virtually and in Person
What is EMDR?
EMDR is an evidence-based, body-mind integrated therapy that is highly effective for Trauma and its lingering effects on mental health.
EMDR therapy rests on the belief that trauma disrupts the brain's natural ability to store and code information through complex memory networks within the mind.
These memory networks control how we experience the world in the present, and they are they form of our present day beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions. Therefore, unprocessed trauma can take away our present sense of safety in the world.
However, EMDR therapy is focused on the present. The emphasis is on understanding how the past impacts the present. Historical data is collected, but the primary purpose is to explore how memories are stored.
When trauma has occurred, the brain goes into protection mode by storing away the events of the trauma. Although seemingly helpful, the brain cannot undo what has been done and so the impact of the trauma ends up getting stuck. Immediately, or over time, this creates an over-active and hyper-vigilant (intense anxiety) response in the system, or an underachieve and hypo-vigilant (depression symptoms) response in the system.
Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro, EMDR harnesses the brain's natural ability to heal by stimulating bilateral brain activity through eye movements, taps, or sounds while focusing on distressing symptoms within the memory network.
The memory network may provide information in ways that don't seem attached to the trauma event, such as acute or chronic body pain, smells or sounds that create a reaction in the system or even things that may seem joyful or pleasant in the current state but leave you with a sense of strange curiosity.
The important thing to remember is that EMDR does not require the exact trauma memory, or memories that have been stored away. By focusing on present day symptoms EMDR can support adaptive shifts in all components of the memory network.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR has eight phases, that are weaved in and out of during treatment, and it navigates into the past, present and future During EMDR sessions, you will be guided by your therapist to recall distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This process helps desensitize the emotional charge associated with traumatic experiences and facilitates the reprocessing of these memories, leading to adaptive resolution and emotional healing.
Who can benefit from EMDR Therapy?
EMDR Therapy is highly effective for individuals struggling with a variety of mental health issues, including the following:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): EMDR is recognized as a leading treatment for PTSD, helping individuals process and integrate traumatic memories, reduce hyperarousal, and alleviate symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance.
Anxiety Disorders: EMDR can be beneficial for individuals with anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder, by addressing underlying trauma or triggers contributing to their symptoms.
Depression: For individuals with depression, EMDR can help identify and process unresolved trauma or negative beliefs that contribute to feelings of hopelessness and low self-worth, leading to improved mood and overall well-being.
Phobias and Fears: EMDR can assist individuals in overcoming phobias and irrational fears by desensitizing the emotional distress associated with specific triggers or past experiences.
Addiction: EMDR can complement addiction treatment by addressing underlying trauma and negative emotions driving addictive behaviors, facilitating recovery and reducing the risk of relapse.
Why choose us for EMDR Therapy?
At Restorative Mind Body Connections our certified EMDR therapists are dedicated to providing effective EMDR therapy to help you overcome trauma, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Our personalized approach focuses on empowering you to heal from within and reclaim your sense of safety and well-being.