What problems are helped with EMDR?

EMDR is the most researched form of psychotherapy to date regarding post-traumatic stress disorder and its results have proven to be effective and long lasting. It has also been successfully used to help clients with:

• Anxiety

• Grief and Loss

• Fears and Phobias

• Adult and Childhood Trauma

• Depression

• Chronic Pain

• Stress Reduction

• Disturbing Memories

• Sexual Abuse

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How does EMDR help to resolve Problems?

People have an inborn ability to process disturbing events and feelings. In most cases, the brain reprocesses painful information over time so that it is stored in our normal memory system without any symptoms. In normal circumstances, individuals can access memories without being unduly stressed. However, there are instances in which the brain becomes overwhlmed and isn't able to process the memory in an adaptive way. The memory seems to become "frozen" in our mind, and the painful images, thoughts and feelings associated with the event seem to be "locked" in the nervous stem, typically out of conscious awareness. These memories then have a lasting negative effect and influence the way we see the world, react to everyday situations and relate to others. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation of the brain to "unlock" the system in a way that permits the negative information to be discharged from the nervous system and allows the brain to process the experience in a healthy way. Your own brain will be doing the healing and you are the one that is in control. 

 

What is trauma?

Trauma is the response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms an individual's ability to cope, causes feelings of helplessness, diminishes their sense of self and their ability to feel a full range of emotions and experiences. Psychological trauma is associated with numerous changes in the nervous system. As a result, the information processing system is unable to function optimally, and the information acquired at the time of the event, including images, sounds, affect, and physical sensations is stored in its disturbing state. Stored in this distressing, excitatory, state-specific form, that original material can be triggered by various internal and external stimuli and can also be expressed in the form of nightmares, intrusive thoughts and flashbacks. 

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What are common reactions to trauma?

• Depression 

• Inability to form close relationships

• Anxiety

• Phobias/fears

• Poor concentration

• Disturbing memories, nightmares, or flashbacks

• Anger

• Addiction/Substance abuse

• Dissociation

• Guilt and self-blame

• Mood swings and irritability

• Feeling disconnected or numb

• Insomnia or nightmares

• Withdrawal from others

• Feeling sad or hopeless

 

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