What is EMDR?
eye movement desensitization and reprocessing
Sometimes when something overwhelming happens, our brains have trouble fully processing the experience. Instead of being stored like an ordinary memory, it can stay “stuck” in the nervous system. When this happens, reminders of the event may trigger strong emotions, mood swings, strong somatic responses like panic and intense fear, or hypervigilance. We may also experience negative beliefs about ourselves, the world around us, our relationships, and the future. EMDR is a very well researched trauma approach that helps the brain process and release these stuck memories so they no longer feel as intense or disruptive to our daily lives.
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When appropriate, EMDR can be very helpful in the treatment of trauma and PTSD, anxiety and intense fears, limiting beliefs such as "I'm not good enough, I'm not safe, I'm not lovable," childhood trauma such as abuse or bullying, domestic violence, traumatic losses and grief, and other adverse life experiences that have left an emotional impact.