What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective, research-based treatment which reduces the psychological and physiological effects of adverse life experiences or trauma as well as helps improve performance and overcome barriers to progress.

Resources to learn more about EMDR: 
Research supporting the effectiveness of EMDR: 
  • “Twenty-four randomized, controlled trials support the positive effects of EMDR therapy in the treatment of emotional trauma and other adverse experiences relevant to clinical practice.
  • Seven of 10 studies reported EMDR therapy to be more rapid and/or more effective than trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. 
  • Twelve randomized studies of the eye movement component noted rapid decreases in negative emotions and/or vividness of disturbing images, with an additional 8 reporting a variety of other memory effects. 
  • Numerous other evaluations document that EMDR therapy provides relief from a variety of somatic complaints.
  • Research and frequently asked questions about EMDR from the EMDR, Institute, Inc.

What is trauma?

The experience of trauma isn’t limited to car accidents or combat. 
If you have been through any of the following, you may be experiencing the impact of complex or relational trauma…
  • A cold and distant parent, a parent who left, or an otherwise emotionally immature parent
  • A parent who made you their friend and confidant rather than their child
  • A family member being incarcerated or suffering from addiction
  • A medical admission or emergency, even as an infant
  • A difficult or physically painful birth or infant loss 
  • Physical or sexual abuse as a child or adult
  • Premature sexualization
  • Being bullied 
  • Adoption 
  • … and many others unique to your experience

“Simply, [trauma] is what happens to a person when there is either too much too soon, too much for too long, or not enough for too long.” - Duros & Crowley

What does trauma look like?

Any experience which leaves you feeling mentally lost and emotionally drained can be form of trauma that affects your ability to function day-to-day.

Everyone has had experiences which leave them confused, unsure, and maybe even feeling stuck. Have you considered your difficult experiences have shaped you and how they affect your life today?

Here are some things you may be noticing as a result of relational or complex trauma:

  • It is difficult to understand, and especially explain, how you are feeling

  • People say you have a “short fuse” or are quick to become angry

  • It takes a lot of time and solid evidence for you to trust someone; maybe you don’t trust anyone

  • It is difficult to emotionally connect to your partner, children, or friends

  • You often feel like a “doormat” or that people can get whatever they want from you even if it hurts you in some way

  • Being out of control of your environment makes you feel anxious and/or frustrated.

  • Elevated voice levels or conflict make you want to run, hide, or escape the situation

  • If someone you care about is unhappy, it is your job to make them feel better

  • You generally feel pretty bad about yourself, like you’re worthless, not as good as other people, or have something wrong with you

  • It feels uncomfortable when others want to touch, hug, or otherwise connect with you physically

  • Vulnerability is not safe

Note: EMDR is an effective treatment method, however not everyone is psychologically ready to engage in this approach. At Redefine Counseling, clients will be assessed for stability and preparedness for EMDR processing prior to engaging in this method. There is no standard timeline for readiness and we cannot guarantee every client will be an appropriate fit for EMDR treatment. Client safety and well-being is the utmost priority and will ultimately be the determining factor in decisions to utilize this treatment method or others which may be more effective.