EMDR is an acronym for Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing. It is a technique that uses eye movements, similar to those in REM sleep, to stimulate both sides of the brain.

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Our brains don't work well to integrate experiences and memories that are painful and laden with emotion. It is like a DVD player that gets "stuck" when a disc has a blemish, causing that image or thought to come to the surface over and over.  EMDR allows the brain to heal the "blemish on the disc," allowing the memory to be integrated and no longer cause emotional pain or behavioral acting out. 

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By stimulating both sides of the brain, this allows these experiences and memories that are "stuck" on one side of the brain to be able to flow to the other side and be integrated. 

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EMDR therapy is appropriate for adults, teens, and children. When I use this modality with children, I modify it to incorporate playful interventions, both to make them comfortable with the process and to provide appropriate therapeutic distance.

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This modality may be utilized with children, teens and adults. It may be incorporated into treatment to build internal resources as well as to assist in working through difficult issues.

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