EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy is an evidence-based protocol which has been developed and refined by leading clinicians and researchers in the mental health field around the world including the American Psychiatric Association, the World Health Organization, the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
The eight-step protocol is aimed at helping clients integrate, assimilate and reframe their memories and resolve their symptoms.
EMDR does two very important things.
First it “unlocks” the negative memories and emotions stored in the nervous system that come from emotionally painful and traumatic experiences. Then it helps the brain to successfully reprocess the experience and find peaceful resolution of the issues or events involved.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR relies on the use of bilateral stimulation. Bilateral stimulation simply means alternately using the left and right side of the brain by moving the eyes back and forth or by using bilateral sounds or sensations. During EMDR, you will experience this bilateral stimulation as you simultaneously focus on your bodily sensations, memories, emotions and thoughts. This helps your right brain (where trauma is stored) integrate with your left brain, where logic and language reside.
This integration produces realizations, a feeling of something shifting internally, a sense of being unburdened or a feeling of freedom as the emotional pains of the past lessen.
EMDR Treatment is for Everyone
Initially thought to be useful only for symptoms of PTSD, EMDR Therapy is now a proven effective treatment for a variety of symptoms such as phobias and fears, grief, anxiety, panic attacks and disorder, depression, addiction, and chronic pain, although this list is not exhaustive.
Let’s Talk
I’m a fully trained EMDR therapist through the Center for Creative Mindfulness. Contact me if you would like to discuss how EMDR may be helpful for you.+1 (818) 245-5298
or e-mailing me at Therapy@RenaPollak.com
Rena Pollak, LMFT, CGP | 4872 Topanga Canyon Blvd., #152, Woodland Hills, CA 91364 | 818-245-5298