Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a specialized form of therapy that helps individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. If you’re dealing with intense, distressing memories or find that certain thoughts trigger uncomfortable physical or emotional responses, EMDR could be beneficial. Signs that EMDR may be helpful include persistent intrusive thoughts, anxiety, or feelings of being “stuck” in the past.
EMDR therapy works by guiding clients through targeted eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation while recalling a distressing memory. This process helps the brain “reprocess” the memory, reducing its emotional impact and allowing you to view it in a new light. By calming the body’s stress response and easing symptoms, EMDR can be a powerful tool for those facing conditions like PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related concerns.
How Does EMDR Work?
Here’s a step-by-step overview of what to expect in EMDR therapy:
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History and Goal-Setting: Your therapist will help you identify specific memories or experiences that contribute to distress or trauma.
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Preparation for EMDR Sessions: You’ll learn coping techniques to manage any intense emotions that may come up during therapy.
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Focusing on the Memory: You’ll focus on a chosen memory while following the therapist’s eye movement guidance or other gentle stimuli.
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Processing Emotions: As you continue, you may notice shifts in how you feel about the memory, with emotions gradually softening.
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Closure and Grounding: Your therapist ensures you leave each session feeling calm and balanced, using relaxation strategies.
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Evaluating Progress: Your therapist will assess how you’re feeling and decide if further sessions are needed or if new goals should be set.
EMDR therapy was developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s after she noticed a reduction in her own distress when she moved her eyes from side to side while recalling difficult memories. Intrigued, Shapiro began researching how these eye movements could help others and developed EMDR as a structured, effective therapeutic approach. Since then, EMDR has been widely recognized and used around the world for trauma recovery, with other terms like “bilateral stimulation therapy” or “reprocessing therapy” sometimes used to describe similar approaches. Today, EMDR is recognized by organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) as an evidence-based treatment for trauma and related conditions.
Who Can Help
OUR LOCATIONS
Atlanta Office
Decatur, GA
Centrally located to our Metro Atlanta residents, the Kula Wellness Group headquarters is conveniently located in Decatur, Georgia near downtown Decatur. Our headquarters features an indoor multi-use yoga & therapy room, an additional therapy office, and a virtual conference center. We also have access to an outdoor lawn for yoga, mind & body wellness, and book club.
Gwinnett Office
Peachtree Corners, GA
Located in Gwinnett county, our Norcross office is near Duluth, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs. Our satellite office features 1 multi-use yoga and group therapy room and 1 therapy office and a key pad protected private entrance.