EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is one of the most researched and empirically supported forms of therapy that has proven effective in treating trauma. EMDR can also be effective in working with negative beliefs and addiction, as well as help you process and move through life experiences that continue to create distress. I have been trained in basic EMDR training since 2018. I also have completed additional, advanced EMDR trainings in order to practice EMDR with dissociative disorders, complex PTSD, grief & loss, and attachment issues. EMDR involves utilizing bilateral stimulation (the use of alternating right and left stimulation through sounds, visual cues, or touch cues) while the client is processing a traumatic memory or thought. In addition to the soothing aspects of bilateral stimulation, this also allows us to utilize both sides of our brain at the same time. This allows us to process piece of information or memories that may be causing distress by essentially moving that stimulus from one side of the brain to another. When EMDR is completed successfully, clients often say that they are able to experience memories of trauma or face trauma triggers and no longer experience distress or symptoms of PTSD. In doing EMDR therapy, we will first spend time going over your trauma history, then working on developing grounding and coping strategies, such as a “safe place”. When a client is stable and has effective coping ability, we can begin to engage in the bilateral stimulation and processing. Clients are able to choose from using eye movements or touch (I utilize small handheld devices called “buzzies” that emit a very gentle vibration) based upon their preference. Please know that effective trauma resolution through EMDR can require multiple sessions, which varies depending on the person, the complexity and severity of trauma.