EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences, including PTSD, anxiety, abuse, attachment wounds, eating issues, sexual dysfunctions and the after-effects of other adverse life events.

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When a person is overwhelmed, the brain cannot process information in the way it is intended to, and a moment (such as a traumatic event) can become “frozen in time”. Remembering this even can feel as bad as going through it the first time because the images, sounds, smells and feelings can re-occur just as in the original moment(s). Such memories have a lasting negative effect that interferes with the way a person sees the world and the way he or she relates to other people. 

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EMDR utilizes bilateral stimulation (BLS) to reprocess these memories, which is achieved through eye movements, sounds, or physical tapping. This stimulation activates the brain's innate healing mechanisms, facilitating the reprocessing of troubling memories, emotions and negative messages in a secure and controlled setting. 

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The EMDR therapy process involves eight distinct phases and draws upon elements of cognitive therapy, exposure therapy, and bilateral stimulation techniques. The primary objective of EMDR is to promote the adaptive processing of past traumatic experiences or distressing memories by reorganizing how these memories are stored in the brain. Through this transformative process, negative beliefs, emotions, and sensations associated with the traumatic event can be modified and replaced with more positive and adaptive thoughts and feelings.

EMDR therapy is particularly effective for individuals who have experienced traumatic incidents like accidents, assaults, or natural disasters. It also relieves symptoms of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and sexual issues. But EMDR isn't just for trauma! While it is incredibly effective for processing traumatic experiences, EMDR is equally powerful for addressing a wide range of other concerns as well as performance enhancement. EMDR has been used by many professional athletes as part of their competition preparation.

I work with countless clients who have previously experienced therapy, even EMDR therapy, and who have had difficult experiences. In my EMDR work, I operate from an Internal Family Systems lens, which merges the structured, brain-based precision of EMDR with the compassionate, nuanced parts work of Internal Family Systems (IFS). This model is designed to reach clients whose protective parts are deeply entrenched, often making traditional methods less effective. This integrated approach facilitates comprehensive and profound healing by honoring and working with these protective parts while addressing the mind's deepest wounds. The Integrated EMDR and IFS Model makes trauma therapy more accessible and effective for survivors of complex trauma, offering a powerful pathway to transformative healing. I create a personalized plan for each client. While maintaining integrity to the therapy models, I tailor all sessions to fit your unique needs and goals. Whether you prefer multiple, consecutive days of focused therapy or ongoing clusters of intensive sessions, I am here to help.

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In our sessions, we will collaborate to identify specific target memories or experiences contributing to your current challenges. Through focused attention, bilateral stimulation, and guided processing, EMDR allows for the desensitization and reprocessing of distressing memories and enhancement of desired strengths. This empowers you to gain fresh insights, release emotional burdens, and experience greater resolution and relief.

EMDR therapy is a collaborative and client-centered approach. You are an active participant and engaged throughout the process. I will provide a nurturing and secure environment, guiding you through each therapy step while respecting your unique needs and pacing.

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Following successful treatment, adaptive information processing is resumed, and you will find that you no longer relive distressing images, sounds and feelings when an experience is brought to mind but rather remember it as something of the past. You will also find yourself more able to operate in desired ways once certain resources and skills are strengthened in your neural network.

• Childhood sexual abuse

• Sexual assault

• Past physical abuse

• Past emotional and/or psychological abuse

• Neglect

• Shame

• Anxiety, Panic attacks

• Compulsive eating

• Attachment wounding

• Grief and loss

• Sexual dysfunction 

• Performance anxiety

• Performance enhancement

• PTSD and other trauma-related issues