Unlocking Healing: Understanding EMDR Therapy
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It's a type of therapy that helps you deal with tough memories, feelings, and experiences. Unlike traditional therapy, you don't have to talk a lot about what happened, and there's no homework to do between sessions. EMDR lets your brain naturally heal itself.
How does EMDR work?
Our brains are pretty good at getting over bad stuff that happens to us. But sometimes, we need a little help. When something really stressful happens, like a scary event, different parts of our brain get involved. EMDR helps these parts work together better, so we can feel better.
What is "processing" in EMDR?
"Processing" means teaching your brain to handle tough memories differently. Instead of feeling scared or sad when you think about something bad that happened, you learn to feel okay about it.
What is it used for?
EMDR can help with lots of things, like feeling anxious, sad, or angry. It can also help you feel more confident and better about yourself.
What is an EMDR session like?
In an EMDR session, you talk about what's bothering you, and then you focus on one thing you want to feel better about. While you do this, your therapist might ask you to watch their finger move from side to side or listen to a sound. This helps your brain work through the tough stuff.
What typically happens in a session?
Everyone's different, so EMDR feels different for each person. Sometimes, old memories come up that are connected to what's bothering you now. This can be uncomfortable, but it usually passes quickly.
Why bring up a painful memory?
Avoiding bad memories just makes them stronger. EMDR helps you face them in a safe way, so they lose their power over you.
Will I be in control?
You're always in charge during EMDR. You can stop anytime, and you don't have to talk about anything you don't want to.
Are there any precautions?
While EMDR holds huge healing potential, it's important that your therapist has undergone formal training to ensure its safe and effective application. Following specific procedures tailored to your needs, emotional stability, and medical conditions principal to preventing potential harm.
What happens afterwards?
After a session, you might keep thinking about things for a while. That's normal. If you feel really bad, tell your therapist right away. As you keep going to sessions, you'll learn new ways to feel better.
How long does EMDR therapy take?
It depends on lots of things, but usually, it takes a few weeks to a few months. Some people might need more time, though. But EMDR can make therapy shorter overall.
Ready to take control of your mental health and start feeling better? Complete our contact form to request a consultation with our EMDR therapist, Annie, and begin your journey towards processing past trauma and moving forward with confidence. Your healing starts with a simple step - reach out today.
