Healing, not just managing
EMDR treatment for painful memories
in Charlotte, NC & Statewide
You don’t just want to cope with the symptoms; you want to heal it at the source.
You’ve tried to move on
You’ve read the self-help books.
You’ve talked to loved ones (maybe even another therapist).
You keep showing up for work and family despite how hard it can be.
You’re exercising and eating right.
But nothing is really fixing it!
You’re ready to leave the past in the past.
How therapy works
What’s different about EMDR?
EMDR (short for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a leading treatment for trauma and other mental health concerns. It is the only treatment I am aware of that moves past coping with and accepting the past to actually healing it.
How? Notice this - Sometimes you can think of memories from the past, but they don’t bring up pain or hurt in the present moment. Other memories are different. When you think of them you feel strong emotions, as though the event just happened recently. This is because trauma memories are not processed the same way non-trauma memories are in our brains. EMDR allows your brain to finally store your most painful memories the same as difficult past experiences that don’t have an ongoing effect on you. You won’t forget the past, but you will be able to recall those memories only when you want and without the emotional charge.
Painful past experiences result in patterns of belief, thought, and behavior that keep us stuck in a reactive state. You are living in fight or flight mode almost all the time. EMDR will allow your brain to process your memories properly, which will then break those patterns and stop the cycle of reactive emotions and behaviors. This means no more disruptions at work when you can’t focus. Improved connections with friends and family. An ability to let your guard down with the confidence that you are safe and secure.
The phases of EMDR
Evaluation: I learn about your history, your goals, how trauma is affecting you today, how it is affecting your work and relationships, and the strengths and resources you already have for us to expand on.
Preparation: We develop your coping skills, establish self-care plans you can use during the treatment process, and ensure that you are ready to revisit painful memories without feeling out of control.
Trauma Resolution: Using guided eye movements during the session, we revisit trauma memories and allow your brain to process them in a new way.
Relapse Prevention: We establish plans for anticipated future challenges such as highly triggering situations and how to recognize the signs of relapse to be proactive in maintaining your wellbeing.
What Will You Lose?
Feeling out of control
Trouble sleeping
Panic attacks
Overwhelm when you need to focus
Disconnection in relationships
Feelings of shame and guilt
Nightmares
Avoidance of reminders
What Will You Gain?
Confidence in yourself
Calm in wake and sleep
Control over your nervous system
A proactive approach
Deeper connections with others
Feelings of peace and acceptance
Improved productivity
Control of your attention and time
Frequently asked questions about EMDR
FAQs
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No. While both include eye movements, EMDR does not involve suggestion from the therapist. You will not be in any type of hypnotic state or lose control of your awareness.
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Yes! EMDR helps us process any painful memories, not just “capital T” trauma. That means that EMDR can help with symptoms of depression, anxiety, phobias, and other challenges as well.
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The number of sessions needed varies widely depending on the individual. The assessment phase of treatment will help me make an educated guess at the duration of treatment. However, as we begin eye movement sessions on specific memories we may find that you progress more or less quickly than anticipated. We will discuss your progress openly as we work together.
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Yes. We can modify your treatment to use other forms of bi-lateral stimulation such as tapping on your shoulders to get the same effect.
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Check out the EMDR International Association here for more information or contact me to chat about your specific needs.
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The first step is easy, click here to set up a free consultation. If we both think we're a good fit, we will get you in for your first appointment as soon as possible.