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What is EMDR?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and is a form of trauma resolution therapy that utilizes bilateral stimulation.

EMDR is a process or style of therapy that is being used all over the world. There are over one million people who have experienced trauma of one kind or another. Many of these individuals suffer from the disease of addiction, others have not found relief from their excessive anxiety, and there are those whose lives are so filled with stress that they have been unable to function to their fullest capabilities.

According to the EMDR Institute, “EMDR integrates elements of many effective psychotherapies in structured protocols that are designed to maximize treatment effects. These include psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, interpersonal, experiential, and body-centered therapies.”

The EMDR Institute states that “during EMDR, the client attends to past and present experiences in brief sequential doses while simultaneously focusing on an external stimulus.” Various forms of bilateral stimulation (light, sound or touch) serve to prompt the brain to function in new ways. Reactivity to memories or present day concerns is reduced. New memories may surface. Stress and anxiety levels are lowered.

Generally, clients will see benefits after the first session and following only a few sessions most report marked relief.

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