What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective way of reducing the intensity of disturbing thoughts and is often used to help those struggling with traumatic memories. This non-invasive method of psychotherapy has been found to alleviate distress faster and through fewer visits with a practitioner.
Rather than having to fully describe the details of an event to a practitioner, with EMDR, the individual is guided through a process in which they call to mind the disturbing issue or event; what was seen, felt, heard, etc., and what thoughts and beliefs are currently held about that event. The therapist facilitates the directional movement of the eyes or other dual attention stimulation of the brain. The practice helps the mind to reprogram the memory so that it becomes less disturbing and is associated with positive thoughts and beliefs about one's self. For example, a patient will reprogram the memory to be associated with the feeling that "I did the best I could".
Rather than having to fully describe the details of an event to a practitioner, with EMDR, the individual is guided through a process in which they call to mind the disturbing issue or event; what was seen, felt, heard, etc., and what thoughts and beliefs are currently held about that event. The therapist facilitates the directional movement of the eyes or other dual attention stimulation of the brain. The practice helps the mind to reprogram the memory so that it becomes less disturbing and is associated with positive thoughts and beliefs about one's self. For example, a patient will reprogram the memory to be associated with the feeling that "I did the best I could".