Best Utilized By an Experienced Psychotherapist

For over a decade, EMDR has been gaining attention as a powerful therapeutic tool for treatment of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. It was discovered quite by accident in 1987 by Dr Francine Shapiro. What she found was that a particular kind of eye movement has a way of affecting disturbing thoughts and proved to be an effective form of trauma therapy. She experimented using the technique with war veterans, survivors of rape and childhood abuse, and found more and more positive results. Clients reported that many of the emotional, physical and cognitive blockages that occur with trauma were cleared. EMDR therapy was then developed and shown to bring healing to people suffering from a wide variety of disturbances.

There are several theories on how EMDR therapy works though it is not completely known. When someone has a trauma, the brain can get overwhelmed with information flooded with negative thoughts, painful body sensations, emotions and images. EMDR therapy utilizes sequential bi-lateral stimulation of the brain through eye movements, tapping or sounds. This has a positive and integrating effect on how the brain processes and stores information. So people who have been stuck on the same old images and material can now move on. Memories are still there but the upset–painful feelings, uncomfortable body sensations, obsessive negative thoughts can decrease. This processing can allow one’s natural state of well being to come through again.

There are several theories on how EMDR therapy works though it is not completely known. When someone has a trauma, the brain can get overwhelmed with information flooded with negative thoughts, painful body sensations, emotions and images. EMDR therapy utilizes sequential bi-lateral stimulation of the brain through eye movements, tapping or sounds. This has a positive and integrating effect on how the brain processes and stores information. So people who have been “stuck” on the same old images and material can now move on. Memories are still there but the upset–painful feelings, uncomfortable body sensations, obsessive negative thoughts can decrease. This processing can allow one’s natural state of well being to come through again.

EMDR therapy is best utilized by an experienced psychotherapist. What is most important in any therapy relationship is developing a sense of trust this is especially true when trying to heal the deep wounds of childhood or trauma.   Having someone who is skilled using EMDR and well-trained in psychotherapy and trauma therapy can ensure that this powerful tool is used to its full potential. EMDR therapy can be used on its own or be an adjunct to regular “talk” therapy. Since the focus is often on very vulnerable material, it is important that the clinician values creating trust and safety in a therapeutic relationship. Finding an EMDR therapist that you are comfortable with helps facilitate the healing process self better is a professional association where the highest standards for the clinical use of EMDR therapy are set. Many therapists are trained in EMDR but certification by the EMDR International Association means the therapist has met specific requirements regarding experience, consultation and continuing education. A licensed psychotherapist who is also certified by EMDRIA can help determine if EMDR is right for you.   For more information about the compassionate, experienced therapy visit the site http://selfbetter.com/