Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) is an entire therapy model that has been proven to be highly effective for those who have experienced trauma. It is recommended by the World Health Organization for treating PTSD and is considered an evidence based practice.
During trauma our brain processes memories differently and sometimes stores them improperly. This improper storage can lead to memories feeling very present, almost like they lose their original time stamp. Related or unrelated stimuli in the present can cause a reaction from the person as if the trauma is occurring in that moment. Both the brain and body feel that the traumatic event is happening, repeatedly, thus resulting in further trauma.
EMDR therapy is founded on the basis that our emotional well-being is interwoven with our physical (somatic) state. EMDR employs a body-based technique called bilateral stimulation during which a therapist will guide a client through eye movements or taps which allows the brain to shift the improperly stored trauma memory to a more functional part of the brain. This shift removes the intensity of the trauma memory, allowing the person to react in the moment without the past interfering and taking over.
The fee for this type of therapy is $155 to $220, plus HST when applicable.
