EMDR
in the Brainerd Lakes Area
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
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EMDR is a proven, evidence-based method that effectively supports individuals in recovering from trauma and other challenging life events. It aims to assist the brain in processing unresolved memories while tapping into its inherent healing abilities. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR therapy operates on a quicker and deeper level and is recognized by numerous organizations worldwide as a highly effective treatment option.
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Nicole completed EMDR training from an EMDRIA approved trainer in 2023
What Does EMDR Treat?
EMDR is not just for PTSD. It's not just about trauma. It has also been shown to help people process any negative feelings they have about themselves or negative emotional states they feel stuck in. EMDR allows people to find relief by gently guiding the brain to reprocess, reorganize, and reduce negative thoughts or emotions brought about by distressing experiences.​
EMDR has been shown to work on a number of issues, including, but not limited to:
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Anxiety and Panic attacks
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Chronic pain
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Depression
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Eating disorders
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Emotional, physical, sexual abuse
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Fears and Phobias
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Grief and Loss
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Interpersonal difficulties
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Low self-esteem
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Negative self-talk
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Painful and Disturbing memories
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Post-Traumatic stress
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Relationship issues
How Does EMDR Work?
Your brain’s information system gets blocked or creates an imbalance caused by the impact of a disturbing event, and the brain is unable to fully process your reactions to a healthy state of resolution. When this happens, the negative feelings, thoughts, and physical sensations about the event get stuck in our nervous system and are not able to naturally resolve. These unresolved memories can affect how you experience everyday life. Your brain cross-references everything you experience in the present with information stored in your memory system.
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EMDR activates the body’s natural healing process by utilizing an eye movement technique called Bilateral Stimulation (BLS). BLS is similar to what occurs during REM sleep and helps to facilitate information processing and relieve the effects of trauma and negative beliefs.
Upon completion of EMDR therapy, you will still remember what happened, but you will not be overwhelmed when recalling the painful memories of the incident, it will be recalled as a distant memory behind a veil. This allows you to access positive ways of viewing the original trauma and to release the stored negative emotional reactions related to it.
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Watch the video below from the EMDR International Association for more information:
EMDR Heals
After EMDR therapy, you will still remember what happened, but you won’t be overwhelmed when you recall the painful memories. This will give you the opportunity to access a more positive way of viewing the original traumatic event, and releasing any stored negative emotional reactions related to it.
Watch the video below from the EMDR International Association: Healing Trauma: EMDR Patients Share Their Stories
* * WARNING: This video contains mentions of potentially triggering events for some viewers. * *