EMDR
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, structured to reduce distress caused by traumatic or negative experiences.
EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based therapy to address trauma through eight structured phases. During EMDR processing sessions, a trained therapist guides a client through a series of sets that combine:
1. Focusing on specific aspects/associations of a negative experience with
2. Bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements or tapping)
EMDR can be a great tool for clients who struggle with PTSD, depression, anxiety, or other issues related to negative past experiences. It can also help clients who:
Recently experienced or witnessed a life-threatening event
Talk therapy has not been helpful in reducing trauma-related symptoms
Do not want to talk about the details of their past experiences
Are seeking a “bottom-up” approach to their issues (as opposed to a “top-down” therapy such as CBT)
EMDR will not erase the past, but after successful EMDR therapy, you will be able to recall the traumatic experience without distress. You can move forward with more helpful beliefs about yourself and others.
At Sky + Stone Counseling, I am passionate about supporting professionals who are regularly exposed (directly or indirectly) to potentially traumatic events. EMDR may be a valuable tool to process through work experiences for:
First Responders
Nurses, NICU Providers, Doctors, Medical Support Staff
School Counselors + Teachers
Therapists + Social Workers
Community and Religious Leaders
While EMDR is a powerful form of therapy, it is not appropriate for all clients. At Sky and Stone Counseling, we will go through a screening process to see if you might be a good candidate and then work together to prepare you for EMDR processing. This phase of EMDR may involve learning or practicing specific coping tools and ensuring you have the support you might need between sessions while you engage in EMDR therapy. It’s important to keep in mind that while EMDR for single-event traumas can reduce symptoms in a few sessions, more complex trauma (such as ongoing negative childhood experiences) will likely require significantly more preparation and time.
For more information on EMDR, I encourage you to visit EMDRIA’s website here
If you are looking for a different trauma-focused therapy approach, I also offer Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).