Eye Movement Desensitization And Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from various treatment approaches. To date, EMDR therapy has helped millions of people of all ages relieve many types of psychological stress. It has obtained the seal of approval from the American Psychiatric Association, the International Society for Traumatic Stress, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Defense.
EMDR
Can EMDR work for you? Scientific research has established EMDR as effective for post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, clinicians have also reported success using EMDR in treatment of the following conditions:
Panic attacks
Complicated grief
Dissociative disorders
Disturbing memories
Phobias
Pain disorders
Performance anxiety
Stress reduction
Addictions
Sexual and/or Physical abuse
Body dysmorphic disorders
Personality Disorders
Although EMDR may produce results more rapidly than previous forms of therapy, speed is not the goal, it is important to remember that every client has different needs. For instance, one client may take weeks to establish sufficient feelings of trust, while another may proceed quickly through the first six phases of treatment only to reveal something even more important that needs treatment. Treatment is not complete until EMDR therapy has focused on the past memories that are contributing to the problem, the present situations that are disturbing, and whatever skills the client may need for the future.
Excerpts from: F. Shapiro & M.S. Forrest (2004) EMDR: The Breakthrough Therapy for Anxiety, Stress and Trauma. New York: BasicBooks.
The above resources taken from the EMDR IA web page for accuracy.
What Previous Clients Have Said…
“This is just a note to let you know about how EMDR has changed my little girl. We started therapy in November 2005, and we have had 8 sessions so far. She is 6 years old and has had severe symptoms of PTSD from being abused. Although regular therapy had been a little successful, her progress was slow and arduous. Now through EMDR my daughter seems happier, and her “fits” (aggressive rages) have been significantly reduced. Even though we are still in EMDR therapy, I could not wait to tell you how much we think this therapy has helped our precious daughter. Nothing we have tried was this successful.” Warmest Regards, R. A. Colorado