Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Introduced in 1987 by Dr. Francine Shapiro, EMDR is a treatment utilized to support healing from symptoms caused by trauma or life-threatening events.

How Does EMDR work?

When traumatic events occur, it may cause mental roadblocks that prevent the mind & body from processing the experience in a healthy manner. With the guidance of the EMDR certified clinician, through weekly in-person or online video sessions, EMDR utilizes direct eye movement to following lights or sounds or utilizes finger tapping while the client/ patient recalls events associated with trauma. These techniques help the brain process past traumatic experiences in a healthy manner by replacing the negative with positive associations or with neutral ones. As the body naturally heals over time, so does the mind. Once the roadblock is removed, then healing begins.

This is an evidence-based treatment for people with PTSD and complex PTSD. EMDR has also been shown to reduce symptoms for the following symptoms:

  • Anxiety
  • Panic attacks
  • Phobias
  • Depression
  • Grief and loss
  • Substance abuse
  • Other emotional distress

Benefits of EMDR

Allows for a More Positive Outlook: EMDR can help identify, reassess, and even transform negative thoughts that are blocking positive thought patterns.

Non-Invasive & Short-term: Compared to traditional treatments, EMDR does not require extensive discussions of painful events. EMDR is more appropriate for those who struggle with talk-therapy and in-depth discussions regarding painful traumatic experiences.

Efficient Yet Effective: The length of each session and treatment plan may vary as it is unique to the patient and provider. However, once traumatic memories are reprocessed and integrated, patients often experience reduced emotional distress associated with those memories in a timely manner as and long-term psychotherapy is not required.

If you or a loved one are interested in learning more about EMDR, please call us at (650) 691-3438 or email us at referral@psycheregistryservices.org.