What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a form of psychotherapy to help process trauma and was created by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D in 1987.
Although primarily used for trauma, it can also be used for phobias, grief, stopping smoking, weight loss, confidence, public speaking and many other things.
How does EMDR work?
It works by using eye movements or other rhythmical or bilateral stimulation techniques to help process trauma that hasn’t been processed. Most traumatic experiences are naturally processed by the brain, but sometimes trauma has been processed in a dysfunctional way or been blocked. Once the trauma is processed, the person can integrate the experience without the associated traumatic feelings and emotions, so they can get on with living life!
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EMDR or HYPNOTHERAPY?
In my experience, EMDR, NLP (Neuro-linguistic programming) and hypnosis are all interconnected. There are a lot of cross overs between all of them. Within EMDR we use hypnotherapy and NLP and within hypnotherapy, we use NLP.
Hypnotherapy is brilliant for most things because it accesses the subconscious mind. Contrary to popular belief everyone can actually access hypnosis. Some people are just better at “getting into the zone!” Most business owners, athletes and professionals know how to do this well! It’s these people that can expect amazing results with hypnotherapy.
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EMDR can help achieve the results without any special skills. You just need to be able to follow the eye movement patterns and focus on what is coming up. If you can’t do that, there are other tapping and kinesthetic techniques we can use.
These modalities all create the space for healing. It’s just what technique works best for you!
Who can do EMDR?
It’s not advisable to do EMDR in your first session. There is the important groundwork that needs to be done first. A couple of counselling or hypnotherapy sessions will be needed first.
Eye movement Desensitization and Reprocessing work is not advisable for those who are epileptic, suicidal, have eye pain issues, are very frail or have heart issues.
Where can I do it?
It can be done in the clinic or online via zoom.
How much does it cost?
EMDR requires setup sessions, so it’s worked into a package that can be discussed at the time of inquiry.
You can book a free info session here to find out how these modalities can help heal your trauma.
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