Today, we are highlighting Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a trauma treatment option offered by three clinician’s in our office, Julie Sharpe, Natalie Gillis, Kim Medford, and Lee Ann Calabrese.
When speaking about trauma treatment options, it’s important to define trauma; the CAMH defines trauma as “the lasting emotional response that often results from living through a distressing event”. The video linked does an excellent job explaining EMDR. If you don’t have the time to watch it, here are some highlights:
“The whole point behind trauma treatment is to help an individual move past or process that trauma to where the brain is not reacting as if it’s still in danger.” – Dr. William Henry Petty Our mind makes us think we are reliving the experiences, not just remembering them. EMDR helps process these memories so that the stress response is not activated anymore regarding that specific memory. EMDR allows us to remember, instead of re-live. The bilateral stimulation involved in EMDR encourages the body to stay in the present moment, rather than being pulled into the stress response associated with the memory being processed. EMDR is a “kinder, a gentler way of treating trauma rather having to open old wounds and stare at them.” – Dr William Henry Petty
If you are interested in learning more about EMDR, check out our website or contact us for more information.