emdr preparation

EMDR Therapy

Trauma is a prevalent issue that affects many individuals, just like you. It can stem from various experiences, ranging from acute events to prolonged exposure to distressing situations. This trauma often manifests in persistent emotional, psychological, and physical symptoms that can significantly hinder one’s quality of life. The impact of such experiences can be deep-rooted, causing continuous discomfort and distress. Our qualified team specializes in EMDR, a specific therapy for addressing trauma. We offer a complimentary consultation to gauge your objectives and pair you with a trained EMDR therapist who aligns well with your needs.

Trauma and PTSD

Experiencing trauma or PTSD often manifests in two distinct ways: either through a state of emotional shutdown characterized by feelings of dissociation, sadness, loneliness, and numbness, or through heightened responses such as anger, panic, hypervigilance, mood swings, and mistrust. These reactions can have a profound impact on your life, potentially leading to depression, substance abuse, anxiety, addiction, and strained relationships.

Acknowledging that you’re facing these challenges can be daunting, and the instinct might be to simply endure or ‘power through’ these tough times. However, conventional coping mechanisms may not always yield the desired relief. This is where  therapy come into play, offering a path to navigate and manage these intense emotions and physical sensations, empowering you to regain control of your life.

A Possible Solution: EMDR Treatment

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a well-established treatment that has been proven to effectively alleviate the symptoms of trauma. This innovative approach is recognized internationally and endorsed by numerous mental health organizations for its effectiveness in helping individuals overcome the lingering effects of traumatic experiences.

Initially, EMDR was predominantly used to treat PTSD, especially in individuals who had experienced combat or other severe traumatic events. Over time it has been shown to be effective for a variety of mental health issues not directly related to combat trauma, such as:

  • Anxiety and Panic Disorders: EMDR can help in processing the underlying experiences that contribute to anxiety and panic, reducing symptoms and improving overall functioning.
  • Depression: For some individuals, depression is linked to past traumas or distressing life experiences. EMDR can aid in processing these memories, potentially reducing depressive symptoms.
  • Phobias: By targeting the specific memories or experiences that may underlie a particular phobia, EMDR can help to desensitize an individual’s reaction to the phobic stimulus.
  • Childhood Trauma and Abuse: EMDR is used to treat PTSD symptoms stemming from traumatic experiences in childhood, including abuse and neglect.
  • Grief and Loss: Traumatic or sudden loss can lead to complex grief, where EMDR can help in processing the loss and the associated trauma.
  • Addiction and Substance Abuse: EMDR can be used to address the underlying traumas and stressors that often contribute to substance abuse and addiction.
  • Eating Disorders: In some cases, eating disorders are linked with traumatic experiences. EMDR can be part of a treatment plan to address these underlying issues.

EMDR therapy provides a secure environment for you to explore and process your experiences in a manner that may have felt inaccessible previously. Our approach is empathetic, accessible, and free from judgment. While EMDR follows a structured framework, we tailor our approach to suit the individual needs of each client.

How Does EMDR Work?

EMDR therapy is a structured eight-phase treatment that includes elements from various therapeutic approaches. It focuses on the client’s past, present, and future aspects of disturbing memories. The core of EMDR involves the client focusing on a traumatic memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements). This process facilitates the brain’s natural ability to process and integrate traumatic memories, reducing their lingering effects significantly. Sessions typically last about 60-90 minutes, and the number of sessions varies depending on the individual’s needs.

Take a look at our blog article – 6 Ways EMDR Can Help You Live a More Positive Life

Common Questions

    • Is EMDR safe?
      EMDR is considered a safe therapy with fewer side effects than many other treatments.
    • Will I have to relive painful memories?
      EMDR focuses on desensitizing and reprocessing memories, not reliving them. You’ll recall memories but in a way that’s less emotionally upsetting.  We may use the Flash technique which makes it less disturbing.
    • How long does it take to see results?
      Many clients begin to experience relief after a few sessions, but the length of treatment varies.
    • How can I prepare?
      Take a look at our blog article – A Comprehensive Guide To Preparing for Your EMDR Therapy
    • What Research is there to support the effectiveness of EMDR?
      Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of EMDR in treating trauma and PTSD. A review of 24 randomized controlled trials published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that EMDR was as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in treating PTSD.  Another significant study published in the Journal of EMDR Practice and Research reported that EMDR not only significantly reduces the symptoms of PTSD but also has a positive impact on depression and anxiety.
    • What Organizations approve of EMDR Therapy?
      American Psychological Association (APA): The APA recognizes EMDR as an effective treatment for trauma and PTSD, particularly emphasizing its efficacy in various populations, including children and adults who have experienced complex trauma.
      World Health Organization (WHO): WHO specifically recommends EMDR for adults, adolescents, and children suffering from PTSD, highlighting its non-reliance on talking therapy or medication.
      Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense: In the United States, these departments endorse EMDR in their clinical practice guidelines for managing PTSD in veterans and military personnel.

EMDR Therapy in the Denver Area

If you’re struggling with the effects of trauma, don’t wait any longer. Contact us today to begin your journey towards healing and reclaiming your life. Our experienced EMDR therapists are here to guide you through each step, offering a supportive and compassionate environment. Let’s work together to overcome the challenges posed by trauma and move towards a more peaceful and fulfilling life.

To get started, you can email us by using the contact page, or call 720-551-4553 for a free, 15-minute phone consultation.

 

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