What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a type of psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. New Horizons Counseling in Pigeon Forge, TN is 1 of 2 providers offering EDMR to clients.
About EMDR Therapy
Our brains have a natural way to recover from the effects of traumatic memories and events in our lives. While many times disturbing life experiences can be managed and resolved on their own, some events may require outside help in order to be resolved. Stress responses are part of our natural fight, flight, or freeze instincts. When distress from a disturbing event remains, the upsetting images, thoughts, and emotions may create feelings of being overwhelmed, being back in that moment, or being “frozen in time.” EMDR therapy helps the brain process these memories and allows normal healing to resume. The experience is still remembered, but the fight, flight, or freeze response from the original event is resolved.
How is EMDR Different from other therapies?
EMDR therapy does not require talking in detail about the distressing issue and there is no homework between sessions. EMDR, rather than focusing on changing the emotions, thoughts, or behaviors resulting from the distressing event, allows the brain to resume its natural healing process. EMDR therapy is designed to resolve unprocessed disturbing memories that are stored in the brain. Part of the therapy includes alternating (saccadic) eye movements, sounds, or taps.
Is EMDR for me?
EMDR is extremely beneficial for individuals who are dealing with long-term effects resulting from a variety of disturbing life experiences to include Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It has also shown to be effective in treating other symptoms such as depression, anxiety, grief, panic attacks, and addictions.