EMDR

What is eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)?

EMDR is a mental health treatment in which you move your eyes in a certain way while you process past traumatic events. It helps you heal from distressing life experiences in a healthy way to eliminate PTSD symptoms and other mental health concerns stemming from trauma. The Doran mental health experts are highly trained in EMDR and similar therapies.

How does EMDR work?

EMDR doesn't require you to discuss details about past trauma. Instead, you’ll focus on altering your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors related to distressing situations. This allows your brain to heal holistically. You’ll move your eyes to guided instructions by your mental health specialist to access memories, repair mental injuries linked to bad memories, and reprocess your mind. 

What is EMDR used to help treat?

EMDR is an effective mental health treatment for the following mental health concerns:

• PTSD
• Anxiety disorders
• Panic disorders
• Social anxiety
• Phobias
• Trauma
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Personality disorders
• Dissociated disorders
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

EMDR helps treat symptoms that negatively affect your quality of life, such as flashbacks, nightmares, fear, worry, constant sadness, and panic attacks.

What are the benefits of EMDR?

EMDR is a simple treatment that can dramatically restore your quality of life after trauma. It helps increase feelings of calmness, joy, and hope. Overcoming traumatic events can help you build healthier interpersonal relationships and succeed at work or in school. It may also improve your ability to focus, sleep, and experience less chronic pain linked to mental health conditions. 

What should I expect during EMDR therapy?

EMDR therapy often consists of eight phases over multiple treatment sessions with your therapist. After gathering information about your past trauma and medical history, your provider activates specific memories by helping you pinpoint negative thoughts, images, feelings, and body sensations. 

You’ll also focus on positive beliefs you’d like to build. Your provider guides you through eye movements during mind reprocessing.  

You might complete EMDR for several weeks or months and take part in medication management or lifestyle modifications when necessary. Follow up with the Doran team routinely to achieve optimal, lasting results.

You can schedule an in-person or telehealth evaluation today at Doran by phone or online to determine if EMDR is right for you.