What is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from different treatment approaches. EMDR has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma.
What Does EMDR Help?
- Panic Attacks
- Complicated Grief
- Dissociative Disorders
- Disturbing Memories
- Phobias
- Pain Disorders
- Performance Anxiety
- Addictions
- Stress Reduction
- Sexual and/or Physical Abuse
- Body Dysmorphic Disorders
- Personality Disorders
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy technique used to help people process and heal from traumatic memories and other distressing life experiences. One of the core components of EMDR is bilateral stimulation (BLS) — a method that activates both hemispheres of the brain in a rhythmic, alternating pattern.
Bilateral Stimulation with Hand Tappers
Hand tappers (also called tactile pulsers) are devices used in EMDR to deliver bilateral tactile stimulation. Here’s how it works:
Why Use Hand Tappers Instead of Eye Movements?
Key Points
- Bilateral stimulation helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories by mimicking REM sleep mechanisms (which naturally help with memory integration).
- Hand tappers provide a consistent, comfortable form of BLS.
- EMDR using hand tappers can be just as effective as using eye movements, depending on the client’s needs and preferences.
For a more detailed explanation, please visit the EMDR Institute, Inc.
Still Not Sure?
Do you experience distressing emotions that seem excessive given the current situation? Are you highly reactive to certain triggers? Do you have one or more dysfunctional beliefs about yourself that you intellectually know are not true?
If so, you may still be a good candidate for EMDR therapy. Contact me to see if EMDR might help you release what no longer serves you.