Recognized as one of the most effective treatment methods for trauma worldwide.  In the US, this includes recognition from organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association and Department of Defense. More than twenty randomized studies support the effectiveness of EMDR therapy in the treatment of trauma.

A traumatic experience is unexpected and unpredictable, uncontrollable, and terrifying. Emotional responses to traumatic experience are often overwhelming and may include terror, helplessness, and extreme physiological arousal that do not lead to helpful reactions. These emotional responses often coincide, leading to overwhelmed, confused, and out of control feelings.  Trauma like this stops the brain from processing normally and leads to nightmares, intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and anxiety that continues to increase.

In addition to traumatic experiences EMDR is used to treat teens and adults with the following:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

• Panic attacks

• Performance anxiety

• Physical or sexual abuse, rape

• Disassociative Identity Disorder (DID)

• Complicated grief

• Disturbing memories

• Personality disorders

• Addictions

• Experiences of bullying

• Witnessing a violent act

• Military trauma

• Phobias

• Post surgical medical trauma

What is an EMDR therapy session like?

A therapist specially trained in EMDR guides a person through an eight phase intervention which starts with the history of the experience and a treatment plan.  EMDR may not be sufficient treatment utilized alone and may be utilized in conjunction with other psychotherapy treatments.

In the desensitization phase the person’s own rapid, rhythmic eye movements are used to allow the brain to process the experience.  Once the brain can process the experience negative emotions are weakened.

If you are ready to experience EMDR, we invite you to call us at 833-HEAL-ATL or send us an email!