EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing

Changing the memories that form the way we see ourselves also changes the way we view others. Therefore, our relationships, job performance, what we are willing to do or are able to resist - all move in a positive direction

- FRANCINE SHAPIRO

WHAT IS EMDR?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a highly effective trauma treatment that allows for the brain to access its own ability to heal. With a trained EMDR therapist, you are guided safely through your traumatic experiences and supported towards healing. Kelly Klene reports “clients are able to access similar insights and growth as with more typical talk therapy, but they are able to access it much more quickly. What might take six months in talk therapy may take a single session with the use of EMDR.”

To learn more about EMDR please visit the EMDR international association website. There you can find information on how EMDR works, articles and publications about the efficacy of EMDR, and information about the requirements for EMDR therapists.

What to Expect in an EMDR Session

  1. Initial Consultation: Your journey begins with an initial consultation, where you’ll discuss your history and current struggles. This helps the therapist understand your needs and tailor the approach for you.

  2. Creating a Safe Space: Establishing a trusting relationship is essential. Your therapist will work to create a safe, supportive environment where you can openly express your feelings and experiences.

  3. Preparation: Before diving into the EMDR process, you’ll learn about the therapy and what to expect. This phase includes developing coping strategies to manage any distress that may arise.

  4. Processing Memories: During EMDR sessions, you’ll focus on specific traumatic memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements. This process helps to desensitize the emotional charge of the memories and allows you to reprocess them in a healthier way.

  5. Integration: After processing, you’ll have the opportunity to reflect on your experiences. This phase encourages the integration of new insights and feelings, leading to a more positive perspective.

  6. Closure and Follow-Up: Each session will end with a grounding technique to help you return to a state of calm. Your therapist will also discuss progress and plan for future sessions to continue your healing journey.

Benefits of EMDR

  • Rapid Relief: Many clients experience significant emotional relief in just a few sessions.

  • Empowerment: EMDR helps individuals regain control over their thoughts and feelings, fostering a sense of empowerment.

  • Reduced Symptoms: Clients often report a reduction in symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

  • Improved Quality of Life: By processing traumatic experiences, individuals can move forward, enhancing their overall well-being.

Is EMDR Right for You?

EMDR is suitable for anyone who has experienced trauma or distressing life events, including veterans, survivors of abuse, and individuals facing anxiety or phobias. Clinicians at Cairn will assess your situation and determine if EMDR is the right fit for your healing journey.

Take the First Step

If you’re ready to explore EMDR therapy and embark on a path toward healing, contact us today. Together, we can begin your journey to reclaiming your life and finding peace.

Sessions are generally done on a weekly basis. To learn more about what clinicians at Cairn Counseling charge for weekly work, and what insurances we accept, please click here

WHAT IS AN EMDR INTENSIVE?

An EMDR Intensive is a period of several hours designed to allow the brain to resume its natural healing processes through eye movement. It helps the individual resolve unprocessed traumatic memories without detailed memory recall through talking. EMDR therapy is widely recognized by professional organizations as an effective method for treating trauma and PTSD, including the American Psychiatric Association, the American Psychological Association, the United Kingdom’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs/Dept. of Defense, and the World Health Organization, to name a few. 

Cairn Counseling offers half-day (3 hours) and full-day (6 hours) Intensives to allow for more movement to happen in the session time, often cutting down on the total number of hours to integrate the memory. For many clients, this therapy can be completed in fewer sessions than other types of therapies.

PRICING

Half-day sessions (3 hours) - $500

Full-day session (6 hours) - $1000

Want to know if EMDR is right for you? Complete our contact form to get started today.