EMDR FAQ
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
In EMDR we use stimulation on both sides of the body to activate processing in the brain. This stimulation on both sides of the body
is known as bilateral stimulation (BLS).
Similar to when your eyes move during REM sleep, bilateral stimulation helps speed along your brain's processing of traumatic events.
Are you trained for this?
Yes! I have undergone over 40 hours of EMDR training and am working toward my international certification. I also have frequent support from an internationally certified EMDR therapist.
What does EMDR help with?
Research shows that EMDR can decrease flashbacks, nightmares, depression, anxiety, and reduce how distressing trauma memories are. It can also increase sleep, positive thoughts about self, relationship and life satisfaction, and emotion regulation.
EMDR can also be beneficial for cultural and oppresive traumas
such as racial and gendered violence.
Do I have to move my eyes?
Not necessarily! Eye movement is the type of stimulation that was originally studied with this method. However, we now know that many different types of bilateral stimulation (BLS) work to process difficult experiences and feelings.
If the eye movements are uncomfortable for you, you can tap your hands, walk in place, or use sound for BLS.
What does EMDR look like at Iris Therapy?
At Iris, I use EMDR for many of my clients, sprinkled in among other therapy types. Occassionally a client will want strictly EMDR, maybe while they have a separate talk therapist, and I'm happy to work with them as well! I use EMDR both virtually and in-person.
EMDR FAQ
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
In EMDR we use stimulation on both sides of the body to activate processing in the brain. This stimulation on both sides of the body is known as bilateral stimulation (BLS).
Similar to when your eyes move during REM sleep, bilateral stimulation helps speed along your brain's processing of traumatic events.
What does EMDR help with?
Research shows that EMDR can decrease flashbacks, nightmares, depression, anxiety, and reduce how distressing trauma memories are. It can also increase sleep, positive thoughts about self, relationship and life satisfaction, and emotion regulation.
EMDR can also be beneficial for cultural and oppresive traumas such as racial and gendered violence.
Do I have to move my eyes?
Not necessarily! Eye movement is the type of stimulation that was originally studied with this method. However, we now know that many different types of bilateral stimulation (BLS) work to process difficult experiences and feelings.
If the eye movements are uncomfortable for you, you can tap your hands, walk in place, or use sound for BLS.
What does EMDR look like at Iris Therapy?
At Iris, I use EMDR for many of my clients, sprinkled in among other therapy types. Occassionally a client will want strictly EMDR, maybe while they have a separate talk therapist, and I'm happy to work with them as well! I use EMDR both virtually and in-person.
Are you trained for this?