EMDR (EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING)

Stress responses are part of our natural fight, flight, or freeze instincts. When distress from a disturbing event remains, the upsetting images, thoughts, and emotions may create feelings of overwhelm, of being back in that moment, or of being “frozen in time.” EMDR is a mind-body technique that aims to transition upsetting (often labeled traumatic, distressing, or disturbing) memories or experiences from that “frozen in time” point to a more integrated and positive or neutral place and is used to process disturbing memories that contribute to unexplained fears and self-defeating beliefs and behaviors.

EMDR therapy helps the brain process these memories, and allows normal healing to resume. The experience is still remembered, but the fight, flight, or freeze response from the original event is resolved.

How Does EMDR Work?

“EMDR therapy does not require talking in detail about the distressing issue or completing homework between sessions. EMDR therapy, rather than focusing on changing the emotions, thoughts, or behaviors resulting from the distressing issue, allows the brain to resume its natural healing process.” (EMDRIA). This link from the EMDRIA website is a great written explanation of EMDR and here is a video from the EMDRIA website for those that might prefer visual information.