What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR stands for: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy
The EM is for eye movement because when EMDR was first developed eye movements were all that were used.
We now know that eye movement, touching (tactile) and sounds can be used to help people desensitize and reprocess past experiences.
The D is for desensitization. This means that memories that still carry a negative charge, and cause disturbance or distress can be desensitized.
EMDR can lead to these memories being stored so that they no longer cause distress.
When a memory has been desensitized, it no longer elicits negative or problematic feelings, sensations and reactions.
The R is for reprocessing. Reprocessing is when the meaning that is made of the experience has been changed.
The negative beliefs one held due to the experienced are replaced with a more adaptive, healthy, and positive belief.
EMDR therapy is a therapeutic approach and not just the technique we use with the traumatic memories.
And EMDR therapy has been found to be an effective, evidence-based treatment for PTSD and is used to treat many types of issues and problems.
EMDR therapy is a powerful form of therapy, with the potential to facilitate some amazing healing.
And because it is powerful, it can also cause harm when wielded by insufficiently trained or knowledgeable people.
To find therapists who are sufficiently trained I suggest using the Find A Therapist function on the EMDRIA.org website.
I recommend finding a therapist who is certified or in the process of getting on-going consultation and training.
