EMDR Therapy in Portland, OR
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR therapy is grounded in the idea that trauma can disrupt the normal processing of memories, leaving them stored in the brain in a fragmented and distressing manner. These unprocessed memories can lead to ongoing emotional and psychological difficulties.
How does it work?
In an EMDR session we will:
Identify Target Memories: We begin by identifying specific memories or experiences that are causing emotional distress or impacting your current well-being.
Use Bilateral Stimulation: Through guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, we help the brain reprocess these memories. This process allows for the integration of these experiences into a more adaptive and less distressing context.
Process Emotions and Beliefs: As we work through the memories, you may process associated emotions, thoughts, and beliefs, transforming them into more positive and adaptive perspectives.
Install Positive Beliefs: We focus on reinforcing positive beliefs and behaviors, helping you build resilience and improve your overall quality of life.
What can EMDR help with?
EMDR therapy is versatile and can address a wide range of issues, including:
Trauma and PTSD: EMDR is particularly effective for processing traumatic memories and reducing symptoms of PTSD, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance.
Anxiety and Depression: By resolving the root causes of anxiety and depression, EMDR can help alleviate symptoms and improve emotional well-being.
Phobias and Panic Attacks: EMDR can help desensitize and reprocess fear responses associated with specific phobias or panic attacks.
Grief and Loss: Processing grief and loss through EMDR can facilitate healing and help you find a path forward after experiencing significant life changes.
Why choose EMDR?
EMDR therapy is a well-researched and effective approach for trauma and emotional healing. It is particularly valuable for those who have found other therapeutic methods insufficient or who struggle to talk about their trauma directly. By engaging both the mind and body, EMDR helps you access deeper layers of healing and promotes faster recovery from emotional distress.
Frequently asked questions —
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The number of sessions varies. Some people feel relief after a few sessions, while those with complex trauma may need longer-term work
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Yes, EMDR can be adapted for telehealth using screen-based bilateral stimulation or self-tapping techniques.
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No, but it can change how you experience it. The goal is to reduce distress and reframe negative beliefs associated with the trauma.
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Possibly. EMDR can bring up strong emotions and sensations during and after sessions. However, this is part of the healing process, and we can work on grounding techniques to help manage distress.