What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for “Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing” and is a therapeutic approach that helps people to overcome traumatic memories and feelings. This may not necessarily be a big event (or a big “T” trauma), but could be a series of events (little “t” traumas), or repeated messages that people are exposed to that were not helpful or harmful. For example, someone may come to me because they feel worthless because of repeated bullying. People often tell me they understand what is happening and know they shouldn’t feel worthless, but they still feel bad and/or disturbed, and no matter what they have tried, the emotional resonance just will not lift.
This is where EMDR can help. EMDR can help move the upsetting feelings and sensations in the body and update them to stop their impact on day-to-day life. This is done by looking at past events, beliefs, and memories from a new perspective with an EMDR-trained professional. In sessions, we would help move the emotional feeling of being “worthless” to one of being a person of value and worth.
Is EMDR Effective?
Yes! Numerous studies and clinical trials show that EMDR is highly effective in treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other related conditions. It’s been endorsed by organisations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Psychological Association (APA) as a recommended treatment for trauma and PTSD.
Below is an introduction video on EMDR courtesy of the EMDR International Association. For more information, EMDRIA explain the EMDR therapy process here.
