Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Jane Benjamin, Ph.D.
This summer, I began training in EMDR — an acronym for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. EMDR is a treatment method used to health the symptoms of trauma, as well as other emotional conditions. It is one of the most effective and rapid ways to heal PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) as shown by extensive research.
EMDR Therapy uses bilateral stimulation (usually right/left eye movements), which activates the brain to release and process emotional experiences that have become "trapped" in the nervous system. By doing so, a client can finally metabolize and resolve traumas and move and grow beyond them. A wide range of traumas are treatable with EMDR — ranging from single incident traumas such as rape, accidents, natural disasters, terrorist attacks and death of a loved one - to more chronic repeated traumas such as childhood neglect, family discord, bullying in adolescence. Physical or sexual abuse or to her childhood traumas. EMDR is also effective in treating phobias, low self-esteem, work and relationship problems, chronic anxiety and excessive anger. EMDR resolves symptoms quickly - generally in 1-10 sessions and studies have shown that the resolution is enduring over time.
The Counseling Center's ability to offer EMDR to the community will be a great addition to Mental Health Services in the area. In today's world that is filled with anxieties, fears and potential threats, EMDR is a great tool for helping people manage their lives.
If you are interested in or have questions about EMDR, please feel free to call Dr. Benjamin at 793-3388, ext 32.
