EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), is an information processing therapy which contains elements of several psychotherapies including cognitive, behavioral, interpersonal, experimental and body centered approaches.
During treatment, eye movements are commonly used as a stimulus to reprocess and produce changes, but auditory tones, tapping and other types of tactile stimulation may also be used.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR is believed to work by replicating some of the brain chemistry and activity we experience during deep sleep (REM), although the patient is not placed in a trance or hypnotic state. Active patient involvement is essential to the process.
After EMDR, clients report their emotional distress is gone or greatly reduced, and they have gained important cognitive insights. This typically leads to spontaneous behavioral and personal changes.
Benefits of EMDR
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) has proven beneficial for treating chronic conditions such as addiction, anxiety, depression and eating disorders. However, EMDR is very effective in helping process emotionally painful and traumatic experiences, including PTSD. When combined with other treatments, EMDR can help resolve trauma-related problems more quickly.
EMDR can be useful in treating:
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Anxiety
- Trauma
- Phobias
- Physical Or Sexual Abuse
- Depression
- Overwhelming Fears
- Panic Attacks
- Low Self-Esteem
- Performance And Test Anxiety
EMDR is also beneficial for improved professional and athletic performance.