EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
Considered the gold standard of all evidence-based treatments for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, EMDR Therapy has been successfully used in reprocessing small and large single incident traumas as well as complex traumas so that the person no longer experiences emotional activation over the events. Small and complex traumas often lead to considerable distress in a person's life without their even being aware of the original source of the distress. EMDR uses the technique of bilateral stimulation combined with various psychotherapy approaches. Although it is not completely understood, the theory of bilateral stimulation (BLS) is that it causes a "lighting up" of the neural pathways associated with the trauma(s) as well as linking the right and left hemispheres and other parts of the brain, perhaps allowing the natural processing of trauma to proceed to successful completion. BLS can be accomplished by eye movements back and forth, alternate tapping on knees, holding paddles that alternately vibrate in each hand, hearing sounds in alternate ears and other methods. It is not invasive. BLS has been used for more rapid learning and performance enhancement in addition to being a healing practice. EMDR Therapy is a mind-body approach that trusts in the individual to heal themselves. The therapist guides the client to activate processing and uses their skills to assist when the client feels stuck.
A clinician who is EMDRIA Certified in EMDR is licensed in their profession for independent practice and has had a minimum of two years experience in their field. They have completed an EMDRIA approved training program in EMDR therapy, have conducted a minimum of fifty clinical sessions in which EMDR was utilized, and have received twenty hours of consultation in EMDR by an Approved Consultant. In addition they must complete twelve hours of continuing education in EMDR every two years.
The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) is a certifying professional association for EMDR therapists and contains a location service for those seeking a therapist. Deirdre is a member of EMDRIA and was trained by Dr. Laurel Parnell, an internationally celebrated clinical psychologist, author, consultant and EMDR trainer and Dr. Caryn Markson, clinical psychologist and esteemed EMDR consultant. Visit EMDRIA for additional information about this effective treatment.
According to EMDRIA, EMDR is an evidenced-based treatment for post traumatic stress. They further note that clinicians also have reported success using EMDR in treatment of the following conditions:
A clinician who is EMDRIA Certified in EMDR is licensed in their profession for independent practice and has had a minimum of two years experience in their field. They have completed an EMDRIA approved training program in EMDR therapy, have conducted a minimum of fifty clinical sessions in which EMDR was utilized, and have received twenty hours of consultation in EMDR by an Approved Consultant. In addition they must complete twelve hours of continuing education in EMDR every two years.
The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) is a certifying professional association for EMDR therapists and contains a location service for those seeking a therapist. Deirdre is a member of EMDRIA and was trained by Dr. Laurel Parnell, an internationally celebrated clinical psychologist, author, consultant and EMDR trainer and Dr. Caryn Markson, clinical psychologist and esteemed EMDR consultant. Visit EMDRIA for additional information about this effective treatment.
According to EMDRIA, EMDR is an evidenced-based treatment for post traumatic stress. They further note that clinicians also have reported success using EMDR in treatment of the following conditions:
- Panic attacks
- Complicated grief
- Dissociative disorders
- Disturbing memories
- Phobias
- Pain disorders
- Performance anxiety
- Stress reduction
- Addictions
- Sexual and/or Physical abuse
- Body dysmorphic disorders
- Personality Disorders
- Attachment Disorder
