EMDR
What is EMDR?
We all have an inborn ability to process disturbing events and feelings. In most instances, the brain reprocesses painful information over time so that it is stored in our normal memory system without any symptoms. In normal circumstances, the individual can access memories without being unduly stressed. However, there are instances in which the brain becomes overwhelmed 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 system, often out of conscious awareness. These memories then have a lasting negative effect; influencing the way we see the world, react to everyday situations, and relate to others.
EMDR helps to unlock painful and negative memories, and helps the brain to more effectively reprocess old information so that it becomes less debilitating. The use of bilateral stimulation of the brain via eye movements and sound allows for a resumption of the normal reprocessing so that images, sounds, thoughts, and feelings can be experienced without undue upset and disorganization.
EMDR helps to unlock painful and negative memories, and helps the brain to more effectively reprocess old information so that it becomes less debilitating. The use of bilateral stimulation of the brain via eye movements and sound allows for a resumption of the normal reprocessing so that images, sounds, thoughts, and feelings can be experienced without undue upset and disorganization.
What Problems Can EMDR Help With?
|
EMDR is the most researched form of psychotherapy to date regarding posttraumatic stress disorder, and its results have proven to be effective and long lasting. It has also been successfully used to help clients with:
Grief and Loss Anxiety Fears and Phobias Adult and Childhood Trauma Sexual Abuse Disturbing Memories Depression Stress Reduction |
|
Does EMDR Work with Children?
EMDR can work for children's issues and can be used with children of all ages. EMDR has been used successfully with very young children, as well as with teens who do not want to talk out loud about the upsetting issues. As with any intervention, the younger the child or the more avoidant the child, the more challenging it is to find ways to engage them and focus their attention on the problem at hand. However, EMDR has been used sucessfully to help children deal with traumatic events, depression, anxiety, phobias, and other behavioral problems. Just as with adults, the EMDR process is different for each child, because the healing process is guided from within. Some children report that EMDR is relaxing and have an immediate positive response. Other children may feel tired at the end of a session, and the benefit from the treatment comes in the days to follow. (EMDR and Children: A Guide for Parents, Professionals, and Others Who Care About Children, emdria.org)