THERAPY SERVICES
EMDR
At Dream Big Counseling & Wellness, we offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to help individuals who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. EMDR is a type of psychotherapy that was originally developed to help people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but has since been found to be effective for a wide range of issues.
So, what exactly is EMDR therapy and how does it work?
EMDR therapy involves using bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, hand taps, or sounds, while the individual recalls a traumatic event or distressing memory. The bilateral stimulation is believed to activate the brain’s natural healing processes, allowing the individual to process the traumatic event in a new and less distressing way.
EMDR therapy typically involves eight phases, including history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation. During the desensitization phase, the individual is asked to focus on the traumatic memory while receiving bilateral stimulation. The installation phase involves replacing negative beliefs about the self with positive ones, while the body scan phase involves identifying any physical sensations or body sensations associated with the traumatic memory. EMDR therapy can be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy, such as talk therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), to provide a more comprehensive treatment approach.
At Dream Big Counseling & Wellness, our trained and licensed therapists are experienced in using EMDR therapy to help individuals heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. If you’re interested in learning more about EMDR therapy and how it could benefit you, please contact us to schedule a consultation.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is an integrative psychotherapy approach that combines elements from various treatment approaches to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. Developed by Francine Shapiro, EMDR therapy is based on the idea that the brain processes traumatic memories differently than regular memories, leading to ongoing distress and symptoms. Through EMDR therapy, individuals can reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge and allowing the brain to reorganize thoughts, feelings, and experiences into adaptive information.
EMDR therapy is a standardized protocol that has been extensively researched and proven effective for treating a range of symptoms, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and substance abuse. By targeting the way memories are stored in the brain, EMDR therapy can help individuals manage distressing memories that hamper everyday functioning. Our licensed therapists are trained in EMDR therapy and can help you determine if this approach is right for you.
Benefits of EMDR therapy:
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Treatment of trauma:
EMDR therapy has been shown to be effective in treating trauma and PTSD. It can help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce the intensity of associated emotions and physical sensations.
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Relief of anxiety and depression:
EMDR therapy can also be used to address symptoms of anxiety and depression. By targeting negative beliefs and emotions associated with past experiences, individuals can experience relief from symptoms of these conditions.
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Reduction of panic attacks:
EMDR therapy is effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks by helping individuals process painful memories and reduce associated distress.
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Support for chronic illness:
EMDR therapy can provide compassionate support for individuals dealing with the complexities of chronic illness, helping them manage mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety.
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Improved self-esteem:
EMDR therapy can help individuals develop a more positive self-image and increase self-confidence. By working through negative beliefs and experiences, individuals can learn to view themselves in a more positive light.
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Enhanced performance:
EMDR has been found to enhance performance in a variety of areas. For example, athletes have reported improved focus, confidence, and performance after EMDR sessions. EMDR has also been used to help musicians and performers overcome stage fright and performance anxiety, allowing them to perform at their best.
EMDR Therapy at Dream Big Counseling and Wellness
At Dream Big Counseling and Wellness, EMDR therapy is at the forefront of our treatment approaches, offering a powerful method to help individuals heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Our licensed therapists are extensively trained in EMDR, utilizing this integrative psychotherapy approach to assist clients in reprocessing distressing memories and alleviating emotional distress.
EMDR therapy at our center involves a structured protocol that includes eight phases, each designed to guide clients through the healing process. From history-taking and preparation to desensitization and reevaluation, our therapists work closely with clients to ensure a personalized and effective experience. EMDR therapy is particularly beneficial for addressing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as symptoms related to anxiety, depression, and chronic pain.
Our commitment to using EMDR therapy is rooted in its proven effectiveness and ability to transform lives. By targeting how memories are stored in the brain, EMDR therapy helps clients manage distressing thoughts and emotions, paving the way for a more fulfilling and balanced life. If you’re ready to explore the potential of EMDR therapy, our compassionate team at Dream Big Counseling and Wellness is here to support your journey towards healing and growth.