EMDR and Trauma Therapy

What is EMDR?

EMDR, which stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. Repeated studies show that by using EMDR therapy people can experience the benefits of psychotherapy that once took years to make a difference. It is widely assumed that severe emotional pain requires a long time to heal. EMDR therapy shows that the mind can in fact heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma (EMDR Institute). This specialized approach to healing past trauma and painful experiences utilizes the brain’s information processing system to remove blocks in processing and allow the brain to reprocess past experiences and move into healing. A number of counselors at Heritage have received specialized training to conduct EMDR with clients. In addition to EMDR, our counselors have a range of certifications, training, and experience that equip them to walk with clients through trauma and process painful experiences. We believe that healing from trauma is a process that involves the mind, body, and spirit and we work diligently to equip ourselves to walk that journey with you.

The goal of EMDR therapy is to facilitate the effective reprocessing of traumatic events or adverse life experiences and associated beliefs, to an adaptive resolution. Reprocessing includes setting up a learning state that will allow adverse experiences and maladaptive emotionality to be integrated and stored appropriately in your brain. The goal of EMDR therapy is to leave you with emotions, understanding, and perspective that will lead to healthy emotional responses, behaviors and interactions.

What is it used for?

How does it work?

EMDR is used to treat troubling symptoms such as anxiety, depression, guilt, anger, and post-traumatic reactions. It can also be used to enhance emotional resources such as confidence and self-esteem.

You are fully conscious, and have the power/control to stop the session at any time. The therapist serves as a guide to help you stay on track and get the most out of session. The therapist will provide or reinforce positive coping skills, resources and ways to manage high emotionality that may be useful both in and out of session, should the need arise.

Will I be in control?

Who Offers EMDR?