EMDR therapy is a widely researched, evidenced-based treatment proven effective in treating a variety of issues. It is particularly effective for treatment of PTSD and other distressing life experiences as well as depression and anxiety. At Solutions For Change, we utilize EMDR to assist our clients in experiencing relief and achieving desirable outcomes rapidly.
EMDR facilitates healing from emotional distress and other symptoms resulting from disturbing life experiences. The brain’s information processing system naturally moves toward mental health. If the system is blocked or imbalanced by the impact of a disturbing event, the emotional wound festers and can cause intense suffering. Once the block is removed, healing resumes. Using the detailed protocols and procedures learned in EMDR therapy training sessions, clinicians help clients activate their natural healing processes.
EMDR was first studied in 1989 and has become a widely used method. It is recognized by numerous mental health departments and trauma organizations as the treatment of choice for addressing trauma.
All humans have a physiologically-based information system, which processes the multiple elements of our experiences (such as sensations, emotions, words, and other types of input) and stores memories in an accessible and useful form. Memories are linked in networks that contain related thoughts, images, emotions, and sensations. Learning occurs when new associations are forged with material already stored in memory.
When a traumatic or very negative event occurs, information processing may be incomplete, perhaps because strong negative feelings or dissociation interfere with information processing. The memory is then dysfunctionally stored without appropriate associative connections and with many elements still unprocessed. When the individual thinks about the trauma, or when the memory is triggered by similar situations, the person may feel like she is reliving it, or may experience strong emotions and physical sensations. A prime example is the intrusive thoughts, emotional disturbance, and negative self-referencing beliefs of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Information processing is thought to occur when the targeted memory is linked with other more adaptive information. Learning then takes place, and the experience is stored with appropriate emotions, able to appropriately guide the person in the future.
Ultimately, EMDR is one of the fastest and most effective ways to process unhealed trauma. At Solutions for Change, we utilize EMDR to help clients on the road to recovery and wholeness. Whether you’re struggling with addiction, substance abuse, or mental health disorders, we can help.
Available for appointments 7 days a week. 9AM – 9PM
