EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy

EMDR is an effective and evidence-based therapy protocol that has been practiced for over 25 years. It is particularly helpful in relieving the symptoms of trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and panic.

When we undergo a traumatic experience, oftentimes the memory feels as though it is “stuck” and has not been fully processed. This can lead to anxiety, overwhelming emotions, disturbing or intrusive memories, and other PTSD symptoms such as flashbacks and a heightened startle response. EMDR helps the brain process and re-file these memories using various therapeutic techniques, including bilateral stimulation (which simply means that we use both sides of the brain). This can be done with eye movement, auditory sounds, or gently vibrating handheld tappers. The 8-phase protocol of EMDR can lead to a safe reprocessing of memories, which can help negative thoughts and memories to dissipate or disappear.

For some individuals, having to consistently recount their story can feel overwhelming and re-traumatizing. One of the wonderful things about EMDR is that it allows individuals to process trauma without having to share the details of their painful memories. 

EMDR can be a safe and effective treatment for “big T traumas” including assault, rape, abuse, car accidents, and natural disasters, and well as “little T traumas”, which could be painful experiences or events that have negatively impacted our sense of self or of our view of the world around us. EMDR is used to treat a wide range of concerns and disorders such as PTSD, panic disorder, anxiety, complex trauma, phobias, negative self perception, and depression.

Please feel free to reach out to me at (323) 438-9972 to schedule a consultation.