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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) was developed by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro, following her observation that eye movements can reduce the intensity of disturbing thoughts and her study of this effect.
EMDR appears to directly affect the way that the brain functions; after a successful EMDR session, a trauma may be recalled without being relived. It allows a person to see disturbing material in a new, less disturbing way.
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How does it work?
Briefly, in EMDR a qualified therapist guides the client in vividly but safely recalling distressing past experiences ("desensitization") and gaining new understanding ("reprocessing") of the events, the bodily and emotional feelings, and the thoughts and self-images associated with them. The "eye movement" aspect of EMDR involves the client moving his/her eyes in a back-and-forth ("saccadic") manner while recalling the event(s).
Fact Sheet on Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR--Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing--is an innovative method of psychotherapy which has been used by trained mental health professionals to help an estimated half million people of all ages from many different countries. The focus of EMDR treatment is the resolution of emotional distress arising from difficult childhood experiences, or the recovery from the effects of critical incidents, such as automobile accidents, assault, natural disasters, and combat trauma.
Many scientific studies have shown that EMDR is effective (see list of studies provided by EMDR Institute).
This technique contains components of relaxation training, systematic desensitization and cognitive restructuring. It is a brief treatment approach and seems to be useful for the following problems:
- Anxiety disorders
- Posttraumatic stress
- Phobias
- Panic attacks
- Performance anxiety
- Stress reduction
- Complicated grief
- Sexual and Physical abuse
- Disturbing memories
- Addictions
For more information, call our office at (319) 358-9397 or see the following resources:
- Online
- The EMDR Institute was founded and is directed by Dr. Francine Shapiro, the originator of EMDR. The site provides an annotated list of controlled studies of EMDR, as well as a schedule of training and other resources.
- The EMDR International Association is a professional association for EMDR practitioners.
- National Center for PTSD Fact Sheet on Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Books (available through Amazon.com)
- EMDR : The Breakthrough Therapy for Overcoming Anxiety, Stress, and Trauma. Francine Shapiro, Margot Silk Forrest
- Small Wonders: Healing Childhood Trauma with EMDR. Joan Lovett, Francine Shapiro
