I recently asked a client how she would describe the experience of EMDR Therapy. She thought for a moment and said: “it feels like it goes deeper than talk-therapy. It feels like the changes in me are some-how more deeply rooted in my brain.”

It was an insightful comment. Imaging studies done on the brain before, during and after EMDR Therapy treatment show that EMDR changes the brain’s structure for the better. The process of EMDR seems to tap into the brain’s natural healing mechanism.

EMDR Therapy focuses on past traumatic events, current triggers and managing or even eliminating these triggers in the future. It is very focused on the mind-body connection. The stress that is felt in the body is targeted and reduced, and perceptions of self often change from negative to significantly more positive.

Francine Shapiro invented EMDR Therapy in the late 1980s. Since then it has helped millions of people world-wide. There have been over 30 controlled studies that support EMDR Therapy. Additionally, the American Psychiatric Association and the World Health Organization consider it one of the most effective treatments for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

EMDR Therapy has many applications. In my practice, I have used it successfully to help my clients overcome PTSD symptoms, manage anxiety disorders, and calm depression. The outcomes of EMDR Therapy can be life-changing and empowering. It does not work for everyone, but when it does, the results can be inspiring.

Additional information on EMDR can be found on line at: emdr.com or emdria.org

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. EMDR Therapy fosters the state of bilateral stimulation in the brain which can lead to healing. There are other methods than the eyes that can be used to create bilateral stimulation ~ auditory and tactile also work. Because of this, Francine Shapiro has said if she could name the therapy again, it would be Reprocessing Therapy.