Therapists and researchers are always looking for new treatments for trauma and other psychological disorders. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) has emerged as a powerful and effective therapeutic method, offering new hope for those grappling with the lingering effects of trauma. In this blog, we will dive into what EMDR therapy is and where you can find it offered in Savannah, GA.
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. Initially designed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR has since expanded its application to various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and phobias. The central premise of EMDR lies in the belief that trauma and distressing memories can become “stuck” in the brain, hindering the individual’s ability to process and integrate them healthily.
Key Principles of EMDR
- Bilateral Stimulation:
- EMDR utilizes bilateral stimulation, typically in the form of guided eye movements, tactile taps, or auditory tones. This rhythmic left-right stimulation is believed to activate both hemispheres of the brain, facilitating the processing of traumatic memories.
- Eight-Phase Approach:
- EMDR follows an eight-phase protocol, guiding clients through a structured journey of desensitization and reprocessing. These phases include history-taking, treatment planning, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, reevaluation, and integration.
- Targeting Negative Beliefs:
- EMDR aims to identify and challenge negative beliefs that have developed as a result of traumatic experiences. By targeting these negative cognitions and replacing them with positive ones, the therapy works towards reshaping the individual’s perception of themselves and their world.
The EMDR Process
- Assessment:
- In the initial phase, the therapist collaborates with the client to identify specific target memories and associated negative beliefs. This stage lays the foundation for the subsequent therapeutic work.
- Desensitization:
- The core of EMDR involves desensitizing the emotional charge attached to traumatic memories. Through bilateral stimulation, clients are guided to process these memories, allowing for the integration of the experience on both emotional and cognitive levels.
- Installation:
- Positive beliefs are installed during this phase to replace the negative beliefs identified earlier. This contributes to the restructuring of the client’s self-perception and worldview.
- Body Scan:
- EMDR recognizes the interconnectedness of mind and body. The therapist guides the client to scan their body for any residual tension or discomfort, addressing physical manifestations of trauma.
- Closure and Reevaluation:
- The therapist ensures that each EMDR session concludes with a sense of closure. Subsequent sessions involve reevaluating the progress made and addressing any new material that may have emerged.
Benefits of EMDR
There are many benefits to EMDR, however three are at the top of the list. First, let’s talk about efficiency. EMDR is often praised for its relatively brief duration when compared with traditional talk therapy. Many clients experience significant improvement in a shorter time period. The second benefit is versatility. Originally designed for PTSD, EMDR has demonstrated efficacy in treating a broad spectrum of mental health conditions, making it a versatile option for therapists and clients alike. Finally, there are lasting results. Research suggests that the effects of EMDR endure over time, with clients often reporting sustained improvement even after completing the therapy.
Where to get EMDR in the 912?
If you are looking for EMDR in the 912 area code, look no further than Water’s Edge Counseling. Water’s Edge Counseling can offer EMDR treatment to Savannahians and the surrounding areas. Alli Negaard, MS, NCC, loves working with young adults, adults, adolescents, and families. Her areas of expertise include trauma, substance use, sexual and domestic violence, depression, and anxiety. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and would be happy to explore this option with clients if appropriate.
She believes in taking a holistic approach with a client when starting therapy in order to gain a full picture of the difficulties one is experiencing and adapting to a client’s needs and desires as their time in therapy progresses. Taking the first step to come to therapy can be intimidating so creating a safe and open space is important.
Alli is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University where she earned her Masters of Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling as well as a Bachelors of Psychology and Religious Studies. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and she is working under supervision to obtain her LPC in Georgia. Alli is also credentialed as a National Certified Counselor. Book an appointment with Alli today by calling 912-319-5552.
EMDR in Savannah, Georgia
As the field of mental health continues to evolve, EMDR stands out as a beacon of hope for those seeking relief from the burdens of trauma and distressing memories. Its unique approach to reprocessing and desensitization, coupled with a structured and goal-oriented protocol, has made it a valuable addition to the therapist’s toolkit. As more individuals have access to EMDR in Savannah, GA, we hope to see a transformative shift in healing and recovery.
Start Receiving Support From Therapists in Savannah, GA
At Water’s Edge Counseling, we understand just how difficult it can be to calm your mind. In fact, sometimes finding ways to calm your anxiety just isn’t as simple as reading a blog on mindfulness. If you or someone you know is struggling in their daily life, consider seeking help from a professional counselor at Water’s Edge Counseling. You can connect with a professional counselor at Water’s Edge Counseling to help support you or your loved one with maintaining a balanced mindset and overall mental health. Our team would be honored to offer support from our Savannah, GA-based practice. You can start your therapy journey by giving us a call at 912.319.5552 or emailing us at [email protected].
Other Services Offered With Waters Edge Counseling
We understand that you may experience issues with more than one mental health concern at a time. This is why we are happy to offer support with a variety of mental health services. Our team is happy to offer support with multiple mental health services including online counseling, clinical supervision, coping after a cancer diagnosis, and SCAD student counseling. We are also happy to offer therapy for anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance abuse, teen substance abuse, and counseling for men. In addition, we also offer counseling for teens, child counseling, family counseling, Christian counseling, grief counseling, and marriage counseling.