EMDR Therapy
Overland Park, KS
Does your past still haunt you?
It happened years ago, but it feels like yesterday.
You know it wasn’t your fault, but deep down, you can’t help feeling like it was.
The emotions you experience when you’re reminded of what happened are overwhelming.
You’d give anything to get the picture of it out of your head.
EMDR can help.
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for “eye movement desensitization and reprocessing.” It is an evidence-based treatment for trauma and PTSD.
EMDR uses eye movements to help your brain process trauma. These eye movements activate the brain’s natural ability to recover from PTSD.
How does EMDR work?
We don’t fully know how EMDR works, but research and trauma survivors can attest to its effectiveness.
Some scientists believe that EMDR activates both sides of the brain to help process trauma. Others suggest that the eye movements distract the brain so that it can process upsetting memories.
However it works, EMDR has proven to be a safe and effective treatment for PTSD.
You can learn more about how EMDR works by clicking here.
How long does it take for EMDR to be effective?
The amount of time it takes for EMDR to be effective can vary. Several factors, such as the intensity and amount of trauma, can affect the length of treatment. Many people experience some relief within the first five sessions.
Are there negative side effects to EMDR?
EMDR is a safe and effective way to treat trauma and PTSD.
Some people experience difficult emotions during EMDR. This is a normal reaction to reprocessing trauma.
Other people may experience eye strain during an EMDR session. If this happens, there are other forms of bilateral stimulation available.
A therapist trained in EMDR will help you stay safe and calm during an EMDR session.
People who have a history of seizures should consult with their doctor before participating in EMDR.
What happens during an EMDR session?
During an EMDR session, an EMDR therapist will help you identify a memory to target.
The therapist will ask you a series of questions to “activate” the memory. You will then think about the memory while moving your eyes back and for quickly.
Between sets of eye movements, the therapist will ask you to identify what you are noticing about the memory. Most people will notice that the memory soon starts to feel less distressing.
After the memory feels less distressing, the therapist will help you “install” a positive belief about yourself. You and the therapist will work together to find the belief that best fits your unique situation.
Finally, you’ll use eye movements to make sure that the trauma has left your body.
Is EMDR right for me?
EMDR can be helpful for most trauma survivors. First responders, child abuse survivors, servicemembers, and people involved in accidents or natural disasters have all benefitted from EMDR.
EMDR can be helpful for people who have experienced one traumatic event and for people who have experienced multiple traumatic events.
As with any therapy, a client’s motivation and readiness to engage in treatment can affect the outcomes of EMDR.
Is EMDR hypnosis?
EMDR is not hypnosis. Clients remain fully conscious during an EMDR session. EMDR prioritizes client autonomy and control. While the eye movements may seem similar to hypnosis, nobody is hypnotized from EMDR.
Can Christians do EMDR?
Although EMDR is a secular therapy model, it can easily incorporate a client’s faith. Truth from Scripture can be applied at every stage of EMDR.
This article may be helpful for Christians who are considering EMDR to read. The quote below summarizes the article nicely.
“As with most forms of therapy, the usefulness and truthfulness depend in large part on the counselor and the client. If a therapist and a client are committed to biblical truth and seeking healing ultimately from God, EMDR could be an acceptable means toward that end.”
Trauma is not the end of your story.
Take the first step toward healing from your trauma. We offer a free 15-minute consultation to all prospective clients.