Tuscaloosa Christian Counseling

EMDR – Is it right for you?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy treatment originally designed to alleviate distress associated with traumatic memories. For example someone who has been in a car wreck might find themselves remembering vivid details of the wreck. That image may replay over and over causing great distress. This is because when a person is very upset, the brain does not process information in the usual way. Disturbing images, thoughts, and sensations can get “locked” in the brain. This stored information can crop up at times, often unexpectedly, causing a high degree of disturbance. The lasting negative impact can interfere with how a person interacts with others as well as how they view themselves and the world. To continue our example of a car wreck victim, the victim might have developed an irrational belief that they are unsafe in cars. They might have great difficulty traveling in cars despite the negative affects on their life.

EMDR can have a direct impact on the way the brain processes information. Following EMDR therapy, many clients reprocess the disturbing images or thoughts in a way that reduces the level of disturbance. The person still remembers what happened, but the memories are less intense. In addition, the client may develop new insights and notice positive behavior changes.

Over 20 controlled scientific studies have established the effectiveness of EMDR. EMDR is a very effective treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as well as associated anxiety. EMDR can also be effective in dealing with:

• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Grief
• Disturbing memories
• Phobias
• Pain disorders
• Performance anxiety
• Stress reduction
• Abuse
• Addictions

Your EMDR-trained therapist will complete a thorough assessment in order to understand the nature of the problem and to also decide if EMDR is an appropriate treatment. A typical EMDR session lasts from 60 to 90 minutes. EMDR is not a one-session therapy but clients are typically able to reprocess their issue in fewer sessions than with traditional talk therapy. EMDR can be used along with standard talk therapy, as a compliment to other treatments, or as a treatment all by itself.

I have used EMDR effectively with clients struggling with a variety of issues. EMDR may be able to provide you with the relief you have been searching for. I can perform an assessment to help you determine if EMDR might be helpful to you. To set up an appointment, please call (205) 752-7557.