EMDR
EMDR is an innovative treatment that treats trauma and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). EMDR uses bilateral brain stimulation through rapid lateral eye movements, bilateral tapping and bilateral frequencies. The stimulation has the power to retrieve and unblock painful memories out of the limbic midbrain. Once retrieved the emotion that is attached to the event/ image is desensitized.
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EMDR does two things, firstly it unlocks the negative memory and emotion stored in the limbic system, and secondly, it allows the brain to successfully process the experience too.
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EMDR activates the opposite sides of the brain, the left and right hemispheres. It gets them working together to process past experiences that have been imprisoned in the nervous system. EMDR doesn’t just work on one thing at a time, it works on the mind the body and the emotions. Often traumatic events are locked in your muscle memory. EMDR can unlock that, so not only do you feel mentally better after a session, but you also feel physically better too!
EMDR - Otherwise known as ‘Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing’
Here is a great video on how EMDR works on the brain
What can EMDR treat?
EMDR successfully treat an array of different symptoms but is known for its success in treating trauma, including PTSD.
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Trauma doesn't have to be a big event it can also be what is classed as a small 't trauma this is events such as conflict with the family, divorce, or starting a new job the list is endless.
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“Small t” trauma are events that exceed our capacity to cope and cause disruption in emotional functioning. These events are not life-threatening but can leave you feeling helpless, ashamed and sometimes riddled with guilt.​
EMDR successfully treats…
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PTSD
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Grief and loss
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Eating Disorders
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Trauma
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Depression
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Disturbing memories
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Chronic Pain
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Nightmares
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Panic Attacks
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Anxiety
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Phobias
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Insomnia
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Sexual Assault
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Shame
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Guilt
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Addiction
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Attachment trauma
Drawing from Laurel Parnell's work in my practice
More recently, I've taken a strong interest in the work of Laurel Parnell. In my practice, I've specifically adopted her modified Attachment-Focused EMDR protocol. The incorporation of resource figures has been particularly effective in my work with clients. I find that her techniques closely reflect the hypnotherapy and neuro-linguistic programming methods I utilise. This integration blends seamlessly into my therapeutic approach, enhancing its effectiveness.
It's time to let go, your heart will heal and your tears will dry
Here is a picture of a brain scan before and after EMDR. The red in the first picture is the brain over actively working. The second picture is a scan of the brain after receiving EMDR. See how very little red there is. The activity is a lot less, a lot calmer.
