Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Move past trauma and recurring reactions to events.

Sometimes just talking about what happened doesn’t take the sting out of it. You may find yourself having flashbacks, intrusive images, nightmares, hypervigilance, anxiety or panic, or thoughts that you know aren’t true… but they feel true.

Often, people have a difficult time explaining what they are feeling and thinking. Almost like you have no words to describe what you experienced. Other times what you experienced was so traumatic, you don’t want to burden others with what you saw or felt.

EMDR can be an effective alternative to traditional talk therapy.

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EMDR therapy can lessen, or eliminate, reactions to past events

Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an evidence-based method that provides relief from difficult emotions, thoughts, or reactions to events. It uses your body’s natural healing ability to process and file away whatever is keeping you from moving on.

EMDR has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms such as flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, and emotional distress. How it works isn’t fully understood, but theories suggest that EMDR helps process and file away traumatic memories. When events or memories are unprocessed, the brain will find ways to remind you that you have unfinished business to deal with. By engaging in EMDR therapy, you begin to integrate the memory to the past which reduces the emotional intensity and the associated reactions or symptoms.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (BLS) through eye movements, tapping, or sounds which are believed to be soothing while also engaging both sides of your brain. BLS has been found to be instrumental in the facilitation of memory processing and inducing a relaxation response.

EMDR Therapy is effective.

While EMDR sounds like witchcraft or hypnosis, you are fully present throughout the session. Most clients experience results after just one session, and often past events can be resolved in significantly fewer sessions that traditional talk therapy.

How Does EMDR Therapy Work?

Learn more about how EMDR therapy works and what an EMDR session looks like

EMDR is a multi-phase therapy approach that incorporates elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and other therapeutic techniques.

The following is a general overview of the EMDR therapy process:

  1. History and Treatment Planning: The therapist will conduct an initial evaluation of the client to assess their history and determine whether EMDR is an appropriate treatment approach. The therapist will also develop a treatment plan that identifies specific memories or experiences to be targeted during EMDR therapy.
  2. Preparation: The therapist will help the client develop coping skills and relaxation techniques to use during EMDR sessions. This phase may also include educating the client about the EMDR process and how it works.
  3. Assessment: The therapist will work with the client to identify a specific target memory or experience to address during the EMDR session. The client will be asked to recall the memory and describe the associated emotions and physical sensations.
  4. Desensitization: The therapist will guide the client through a series of eye movements, taps or sounds while the client holds the traumatic event in their mind. During this process, the client will be instructed to focus on the negative beliefs, emotions, and physical sensations associated with the traumatic event.
  5. Installation: The therapist will help the client focus on positive thoughts and beliefs, and strengthen the connection between the positive thoughts and the target memory.
  6. Body Scan: The therapist will guide the client in noticing any remaining physical sensations in the body that may be associated with the traumatic event.
  7. Closure: The therapist will help the client return to a calm and relaxed state at the end of the session.
  8. Re-evaluation: The therapist will monitor the client’s progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed to address any remaining distress associated with the target memory or experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR Therapy in Eugene, Oregon

What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy, which is a form of psychotherapy that was developed in the late 1980s to help people process traumatic experiences. It is a structured and evidence-based therapy that has been shown to be effective for a variety of mental health concerns, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and phobias.
When is EMDR therapy typically needed or recommended?
EMDR therapy is typically recommended for individuals who have experienced a traumatic event or series of events that are causing significant distress and interference in their daily life. Trauma can be defined as any event that overwhelms a person’s ability to cope and results in a sense of helplessness or terror. Traumatic experiences can include, but are not limited to, physical or sexual assault, accidents, natural disasters, combat, and childhood abuse or neglect.
How much does EMDR therapy cost?
The cost of EMDR therapy can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the location of the therapist, the therapist’s level of experience and qualifications, and the length and frequency of the therapy sessions. EMDR therapy is covered by most insurance plans, particularly if it is being used to treat a diagnosed mental health condition, such as post-traumatic stress disorder. However, coverage and reimbursement can vary widely, and it is important to check with your insurance provider to determine what your out-of-pocket costs may be.
How long does the EMDR therapy process take?
The length of the EMDR therapy process can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the severity of the trauma, the individual’s level of distress, and the individual’s readiness and willingness to engage in the therapy process. Treatment can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete, depending on the individual’s needs and progress.
How do I know if EMDR Therapy is right for me?

Determining if EMDR therapy is the right treatment approach for you will depend on a variety of factors, such as your mental health history, the severity and nature of your symptoms, and your personal preferences and goals for therapy.

Here are some factors to consider when deciding if EMDR therapy may be a good fit for you:

  1. You have experienced a traumatic event or series of events that continue to impact your daily life and well-being.
  2. You are struggling with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance behaviors.
  3. You are experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mental health symptoms that are related to past traumatic experiences.
  4. You are motivated to work through your past experiences and are willing to engage in the therapy process.
  5. You are open to the use of eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation as part of the therapy process.
  6. You have a therapist who is trained and experienced in providing EMDR therapy.

It is important to note that EMDR therapy may not be appropriate for everyone and that it is important to discuss your options with a qualified mental health professional. A therapist can help you determine if EMDR therapy is the right fit for your needs and can work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals.

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Want to learn more about how EMDR therapy can help? Reach out through email or by calling to get started.

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