Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a powerful psychotherapy approach designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Developed by Francine Shapiro, EMDR has been extensively researched and shown to be effective for treating a wide range of psychological difficulties, especially disorders related to trauma.

The theoretical underpinnings of EMDR are rooted in the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model. This model suggests that the brain has a natural capacity to process and integrate experiences, allowing for adaptive resolution. When a traumatic or highly distressing event occurs, this processing system can become overwhelmed, causing the memory to be “stuck” in the brain in a raw, unprocessed form. These unprocessed memories can continue to trigger negative emotions, physical sensations, and painful behaviors in the present.

EMDR therapy works by facilitating the brain’s natural processing of these stuck memories. During an EMDR session, the client is asked to focus on a distressing memory, including its associated images, negative beliefs, and body sensations. Simultaneously, the therapist guides the client through bilateral stimulation, typically in the form of eye movements, but also sometimes using taps or tones. This bilateral stimulation seems to activate the brain’s information processing system, allowing the memory to be reprocessed and integrated in a more adaptive way. This process helps to connect the distressing memory with more adaptive information, reducing its emotional charge and allowing for new, more positive perspectives to emerge.

EMDR can help clients address a wide range of issues, including:

• Trauma and PTSD
• Anxiety disorders
• Phobias
• Panic attacks
• Grief and loss
• Childhood abuse and neglect
• Addictive and compulsive behaviors

By facilitating the reprocessing of traumatic memories, EMDR empowers individuals to heal from past experiences and live more fulfilling lives. If you are struggling with the impact of past trauma or other distressing experiences, EMDR may be a highly effective treatment option for you.

(Read more about EMDR here.)

Claire’s EMDR resume

• EMDR Basic Training (Deany Laliotis) – 9/2015, 1/2016
• EMDR Therapy and the Treatment of Substance & Behavioral Addictions (Hope Payson, Kate Becker) – 9/2017
• Treating Complex PTSD & Dissociation Using EMDR (Denise Gelinas) – 10/2018