EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

What is it?

EMDR is a psychotherapy technique that was developed to help process trauma. It can be used for other purposes beyond trauma work.

What it can treat:

Shock trauma, attachment trauma/ issues, self-esteem/self-image, sexual trauma, medical trauma, anxiety, phobias, depression (by working with negative beliefs), chronic pain, and health issues (it does not cure these, but can offer some support around anxiety, negative beliefs or trauma that is coupled with chronic issues). It can help with sexual issues that are a result of negative beliefs.

Bilateral Stimulation:

One of the main features of EMDR is bilateral stimulation. There are many different types of bilateral stimulation: tapping back and forth (on different parts of the body or a surface), being directed to move your eyes back and forth (with light or by the therapist’s hand), buzzers or tappers (devices that vibrate in your hands). When combined with expressive arts therapy, drawing, painting, or using instruments can provide bilateral stimulation. Even the eye movement is in the title of EMDR—you do not need to do eye movements.

Together with the therapist, the client will choose a memory to use for re-processing. Then, the client will choose the bilateral stimulation to use. The therapist will ask the client to think of the chosen memory while directing them when to use bilateral stimulation and when to stop.

Will it be re-traumatizing?

EMDR is done in a trauma-informed way that is slow and directed by the client and their comfort levels. You will never be asked to do something you do not feel comfortable doing. You can always stop at any time during EMDR.

For added support and effectiveness, I use IFS-informed EMDR. This means I will help you identify your parts (your internal protective system), and we will make sure your parts are comfortable and consenting at every step of the way.

EMDR pairs well with other somatic approaches, IFS, attachment work, sex therapy, expressive arts, and Ketamine integration. EMDR intensives are also an option, allowing more time to complete all the phases of EMDR.