EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an integrative psychotherapy approach that mimics the brain's natural ability to heal itself from emotional disturbances and psychological trauma. Developed by American Psychologist Francine Shapiro in the 1980's, EMDR was originally developed for the treatment of PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). Today however, the treatment is widely used to help people overcome a variety of different challenges including:
Panic Attacks
Grief
Depression
Anger management
Addictions
Life transitions
Stress
Performance Anxiety
Disturbing memories
Phobias
Sexual/Physical abuse
The mind heals from psychological trauma much like how the body does. For example, if you have a shallow cut, chances are good that your body will heal itself and no further assistance is necessary. If, however, that cut is deep enough, it's important to ensure that the cut is properly cleared of infection so your body can resume with its natural healing. A similar process occurs with mental healing. EMDR therapy assists in fully processing and clearing out any negative residual blocks that can result from a traumatic or distressing experience so your mind can go about its natural healing process. This can result in feeling freed from negative emotional baggage that has been holding you back and preventing you from living in the present.
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