EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) in Vancouver
Ever feel like past experiences are holding you back? Are you ready to explore an alternative method for reprocessing memories?
EMDR therapy is a powerful, science-backed method designed to help you break free from the emotional weight of trauma, anxiety, and stress. This therapy uses bilateral stimulation such as guided eye movements to help rewire how your brain processes distressing memories, so you can move forward with greater peace and clarity.
What is Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy?
EMDR, formally known as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy, is a specialized mode of therapeutic treatment which is designed to support individuals with reprocessing experiences of trauma, anxiety, and distressing events. Through a structured process involving bilateral stimulation—often with guided eye movements—EMDR helps the brain process and reframe these memories, reducing their emotional charge. EMDR aims to help clients regain control over their thoughts and emotions, ultimately leading to a healthier, more balanced life.
How Does Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Work?
In the experience of trauma, memories often can get stuck or remain unprocessed in the subconscious mind. EMDR therapy works by helping the brain process and reframe distressing memories that remain unprocessed. In EMDR therapy, the therapist will guide the client through a series of eye movements (or other forms of bilateral stimulation) while focusing on a traumatic memory. This dual attention process helps the brain rewire and store the memory in a healthier way, reducing its emotional intensity. Over time, EMDR can help clients release negative beliefs and emotional pain, allowing a sense of increased groundedness and sense of control.
EMDR Therapists can assist with:
- Establishing coping strategies for revisiting memories of traumatic events
- Support clients in building emotional resilience toward their anxieties
- Integrate healthier beliefs while working with distressing memories
Techniques used in an EMDR session may include:
- Bilateral stimulation which may include eye movements, body tapping or auditory stimulation involving sounds.
- Desensitization where clients recall a distressing memory during engagement with bilateral stimulation
- Cognitive Interweave which is a gentle process designed to help clients to shift their thinking while reframing the experience
- Body Scans involving awareness drawn to different body parts holding tension while the therapist may support in guiding a tension release exercise.
How do I know if EMDR Therapy is for me?
This type of therapy will be most helpful if you:
- Have experienced a traumatic or distressing event and want to reprocess it
- Have tried traditional talk therapy and want to explore bilateral therapy further
- Struggle with Anxiety, PTSD, or debilitating Phobias
- Are open to new methods of therapy and want a structured, focused therapy approach
- Want to overcome limiting beliefs about self or negative perceptions about experiences
