Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing

What is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach designed for working with distressing or traumatic memories. The theory behind EMDR is that many psychological difficulties are the result of distressing life experiences which have not been stored in the memory properly and are said to be unprocessed or blocked.  These traumatic memories may need some help to become processed, and EMDR is one way to do this.

What is EMDR used to treat?

There is very good evidence that EMDR is an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  It is recommended by the American Psychological Association as an effective treatment for PTSD.  Other areas that EMDR can be helpful include distressing memories such as cancer, grief, or other traumatic stressors.

How long does treatment take?

EMDR sessions are sometimes slightly longer than typical therapy sessions, (up to 90 minutes).  The number of sessions needed will depend on the type and severity of trauma which you experienced.  A rough estimate is between 8-12 session for simpler traumas, with more sessions necessary for multiple traumas.   Treatment runs in conjunction with continuing to see one’s primary therapist.

Dr. Jamie Janssen is currently providing EMDR treatment at CDCW.  If you are interested in learning more or adding EMDR in conjunction to your current treatment, please contact CDCW.

What is EMDR? – EMDR Institute – EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING THERAPY

About EMDR Therapy – EMDR International Association (emdria.org)

Both comments and pings are currently closed.