EMDR Therapy
EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing model, which proposes that distressing experiences can sometimes remain insufficiently processed and continue to influence how we respond to present-day situations.
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a structured, trauma-focused therapy that can help people process distressing experiences that continue to affect how they feel, think or respond in the present.
Sometimes, after a difficult or traumatic experience, the mind and body continue to respond as though the experience is still happening. Certain memories, situations or reminders can bring up strong emotions, physical sensations or negative beliefs about ourselves, even when we know we are safe in the present.
EMDR helps you work through these experiences in a safe and supported way. During EMDR therapy, your therapist guides you through specific steps that may include grounding and calming techniques, developing personal resources, identifying thoughts and feelings connected to an experience, and using bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or other forms of left-right stimulation.
The goal of EMDR is not to erase a memory or change what happened. Instead, it can help reduce the emotional distress associated with the memory so that it no longer feels as overwhelming or disruptive.
EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which proposes that some distressing experiences may not become fully integrated with other memories and experiences. When this happens, reminders of the experience can continue to trigger strong emotional or physical responses. EMDR supports the processing and integration of these experiences so they can become less distressing over time.
EMDR is a collaborative process. Preparation and establishing a sense of safety are important parts of therapy, and Mary will work with you to determine whether EMDR is appropriate and when you are ready to begin.
What can EMDR help with?
traumatic experiences
grief and
loss
anxiety related to past experiences
PTSD
symptoms
relationship
trauma
distressing
memories
accidents or
injuries
childhood experiences
experiences that affect present life
Does EMDR erase memories?
No. It doesn't erase what happened. The goal is to reduce the distress associated with the memory so that the experience feels less overwhelming when remembered or triggered.
Is EMDR right for me?
EMDR may be helpful for people who continue to experience emotional or physical distress related to difficult or traumatic experiences. This can include experiences that happened recently or many years ago and may continue to affect how you feel, think or respond in the present.
You do not need to have a formal diagnosis of PTSD to explore whether EMDR may be appropriate for you. What matters is understanding your individual experiences, needs and goals for therapy.
EMDR is a collaborative process, and you do not have to know whether it is the right approach before reaching out. Mary will take the time to learn about what brings you to counselling, answer your questions and discuss whether EMDR may be a good fit for your circumstances.
Preparation and a sense of safety are important parts of EMDR therapy. Depending on your needs and readiness, therapy may begin with grounding, coping strategies and resource-building before moving into trauma processing.
If you are curious about EMDR and would like to learn more, contact Mary to start the conversation.