What is EMDR?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.   It is a type of psychotherapy enabling clients to heal from emotional distress due to trauma.  For example, EMDR enables people to heal from pain caused by a single traumatic event such as a car accident or repeated traumas such as a history of physical or emotional abuse. 

Why use EMDR?

When a trauma occurs, it may get locked in our brains and can replay in our minds like a movie.  People may experience the original sights, sounds, smells, and feelings of the trauma as if it were happening all over again.  EMDR unlocks the brain, so to speak, and allows these memories to become much less disturbing and disruptive.  Studies have shown EMDR to reduce symptoms of trauma in as little as 3-6 sessions which is typically much faster than other types of therapies.

What is the difference between EMDR and Hypnosis?

EMDR and hypnosis are very different.  During EMDR the client is wide awake and actively participating in the EMDR sessions.  With hypnosis the therapist induces deep relaxation and makes suggestions to modify the client’s behavior in order to change their behavior and reach their goals such as quitting smoking.

Who can benefit from EMDR?

EMDR was originally developed to treat people who had experienced trauma and those suffering from PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).  It is also effective in treating other issues such as grief and loss, anxiety, and eating disorders.  Your therapist will decide if EMDR is the right treatment modality for you.

A therapist must be trained and certified to use EMDR. For more information about EMDR visit the website EMDR.com.

We have therapists certified in EMDR, call today to schedule a session 239-289-9796.

– Dr. Linda Alexander, Psy.D

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