Understanding EMDR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy — a powerful, research-backed approach to healing and personal growth.

​

​

What Is EMDR?

 

EMDR is an interactive psychotherapeutic technique used to alleviate psychological stress. It's a relatively new form of therapy designed to diminish negative feelings associated with memories of traumatic events. Unlike traditional forms of cognitive behavioural therapy, EMDR focuses less time on the traumatic event itself and more on the disturbing emotions and symptoms that result from the event. The goal is to reprocess these traumatic memories, reducing their impact
and helping you to develop more adaptive coping mechanisms.

​

​

The Journey of EMDR: A Fusion Of Science And Innovation

 

The creators of EMDR, led by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, discovered that bilateral stimulation (eye movements similar to those during REM sleep) could reduce the intensity of disturbing thoughts. This approach has evolved, incorporating structured protocols to help individuals process traumatic events and move forward with resilience and emotional strength.

​

​

The EMDR Experience

 

EMDR therapy is a multi-phase treatment typically delivered in eight distinct stages, involving:

• History-taking

• Preparation

• Assessment

• Desensitization

• Installation

• Body scan

• Closure

• Re-evaluation

 

During the desensitization phase, you'll focus on a troubling memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements), which is believed to contribute to the changes in how the memory is stored, reducing its lingering effects.

​

​

Who Can Benefit from EMDR?

 

EMDR therapy has been extensively researched and proven effective for individuals suffering from trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, its benefits are not limited to these conditions. EMDR has also shown promise in treating:

• Anxiety and panic attacks

• Depression

• Stress

• Phobias

• Sleep problems

• Complicated grief

• Pain and somatic disorders

• Addictions

​

​

Take The Next Step Towards Healing

 

If you're seeking relief from the burden of traumatic memories or looking for a path to emotional well-being, EMDR therapy might be right for you. We invite you to contact us at the Airdrie Counselling Centre to learn more or to schedule a consultation. Together, we can work towards restoring your peace of mind and embarking on a journey to a more joyful, fulfilling life.