Understanding EMDR

Eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) is a simple, efficient form of therapy utilizing bilateral stimulation (BLS), usually in the form of eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones to accelerate the brain’s capacity to process and heal a troubling memory, thought, feeling or phobia.  BLS stimulates the same eye movements that occur during rapid eye movement (REM) or dream sleep.  BLS causes the different parts of the brain to work in conjunction to reintegrate a memory. EMDR is effective in alleviating trauma-related symptoms, whether the traumatic event occurred many years ago or yesterday. It often yields desired results with little talking, without the necessity of medications.   Scientific research has established EMDR as effective for the treatment of post-traumatic stress, phobias, panic attacks, anxiety disorders, stress, sexual and physical abuse, disturbing memories, complicated grief, addictions, chronic pain, and migraines.