EMDR Therapy

Sage Mental Health is now offering EMDR Therapy!

What is EMDR Therapy?

Just as our bodies instinctively know how to heal a physical wound, our brains possess a natural capacity for processing traumatic or difficult memories and experiences. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of therapy that utilizes bilateral stimulation (BLS), typically in the form of eye movements, repetitive tapping, or auditory tones, to accelerate the brain’s natural capacity to process and heal a disturbing memory, thought, or feeling. Prior to EMDR, traumatic memories are stuck in the emotional center of the brain, becoming easily cued or activated at reminders of the trauma (and may be experienced as flashbacks, anxiety, depression, nightmares, etc.). During EMDR, the BLS enables the disturbing memory contained in the emotional brain to be linked to the rational center of the brain, where the memory can be reintegrated and retained in a non-disturbing manner.

What might EMDR help with?

Research has shown that EMDR is effective for the treatment of post-traumatic stress, phobias, panic attacks, anxiety disorders, experiences of abuse, stress, disturbing memories, complicated grief, and chronic pain. EMDR is effective in treating trauma-related symptoms from events both recent and long ago.

Though difficult memories will still be remembered following EMDR, the levels of disturbance (e.g. painful emotions, unpleasant physical sensations, negative thoughts) should decline or disappear.

What are the risks associated with EMDR?

1) Reprocessing a memory or disturbing event may bring up other difficult memories. This is normal, and you will be supported in this. These associated memories will also be reprocessed.

2) During EMDR, you may experience bodily sensations, images, emotions, sounds and other reminders associated with the memory or event, which may be unpleasant at times. You will be supported in this and will remain in control at all times – this means that may stop or pause the therapy at any time.

3) It is normal for your brain to continue reprocessing the memory or event even after the end of the therapy session. Other experiences may include dreams, memories, flashbacks, feelings, and bodily sensations between sessions. Your brain is reprocessing these experiences and is often able to manage this without support, though additional support will be available if you require it.

Is EMDR right for me?

EMDR therapy has helped countless people heal from difficult experiences and may be an effective option for you as well. If you have questions about EMDR therapy, we welcome all inquiries at [email protected] or (604) 991-7127.