The idea behind EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is that your brain and your body have a natural ability to heal. If you cut your finger, your body automatically knows what it needs to do to heal itself. Our brains typically function in the same way. Most of the time, when you experience something upsetting, your brain is able to process the event without any help. You may think about what happened, talk about it, or even dream about it, and, over time, the event no longer bothers you.

But sometimes, if an event is too overwhelming or stressful, this natural healing ability becomes stuck and your brain is unable to process what has happened to you. EMDR believes the events that remain unprocessed in your brain are the cause of depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger, resentment, and many other negative emotions and symptoms.
EMDR allows you to process those memories so that they are no longer a source of discomfort or cause you to think and feel in ways you may not want to. You don’t forget what happened to you, but the negative emotions and thoughts connected with that memory are resolved in a positive, healthy way.

In the initial sessions of EMDR, we will spend some time exploring the concerns that brought you to counseling. We will talk about what you are struggling with, how those struggles are present in your daily life, and how your relationships are impacted.

It is also important for us to talk about any past experiences that might be influencing what you are struggling with today. People often tell me “The past is the past, it shouldn’t bother me anymore.” I used to think and feel the same way, but, through my work as a counselor, I have learned the past can still impact your present life. Together we will explore events such as significant losses from death or divorce, childhood events, times you have struggled in the past, failed relationships, and even medical problems.

Once we have a good idea of how the past and present fit together, we will then address your goals one at a time; focusing on your most pressing concern to give you the most benefit in the shortest possible time.

Bad things happen to good people all the time and the results can be long lasting. EMDR can help you put the past in its place so that you can be the person you want to be.

Call or email today to find out more or to set up your initial consultation.