What is EMDR?

EMDR is a process of reprocessing information that has been stored in the brain in a dysfunctional way. Typically, our brains do a good job processing and digesting information, even when we have a “bad day." The information is stored in a way that is useful, much the way our food is distributed where it needs to go in the digestion process. But when a person experiences a traumatic event, the sensory information that is experienced at that time (sights, sounds, smells , etc.) becomes stored in the brain with the memory in a sort of frozen state. When the memory is recalled, the same disturbing sensory data and accompanying thoughts are re-experienced. This can be quite stressful and painful.

EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, evolved from the discovery by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro that stimulating both sides of the brain by facilitating eye movements from side to side across the midline of the body can reduce the negative effects of trauma. Further research confirmed that auditory stimulation (beeps coming from right and left through a headphone) and tactile stimulation (pulses alternately reaching left and right hand-held pulsers) could also be effective. The memory is not forgotten, but becomes neutralized.

If I feel that EMDR is appropriate, I will guide the client to focus on a specific problem, go through a sequence of feeling, thought, and body identifications, and then proceed with the desensitization stimulation.

Clients suffering from post-traumatic stress have seen positive results with EMDR. Success has also been reported for a variety of disturbing conditions including addiction, eating disorders, excessive stress, phobias, and sexual and physical abuse.

I have completed Levels 1 and 2 of the basic training and have received advanced training in working with children.

EMDR Institute

EMDR International Association

EMDR Therapist Network