EMDR is an efficient form of therapy that utilizes Bilateral Stimulation (BLS) in the form of eye movements, tapping or auditory tones to accelerate the brain’s capacity to process and heal troubling memories, intrusive thoughts or feelings, phobias, etc. Bilateral Stimulation stimulates the same eye movements which occur during Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep and uses two parts of the brain to work in conjunction to reintegrate a memory. Some clients can experience relief or positive effects after just a few sessions, while those with more complex difficulties may require more sessions for reprocessing. EMDR is proven effective in alleviating trauma-related symptoms, whether the event was recent or occurred many years ago. EMDR often yields results with minimal talking, without the use of pharmaceuticals and does not require work be completed between sessions. Evidence based research has established EMDR as an effective treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, phobias, panic attacks, anxiety disorders, stress, ongoing symptoms related to past abuse, disturbing memories, complicated grief, addictions and chronic pain. EMDR treatment should only be facilitated by a licensed psychotherapist who has completed EMDRIA-approved training.

Possible benefits of EMDR include the following:
1. When a memory is remembered the painful emotions and disturbing physical sensations/thoughts are no longer present.
2. When a trigger is encountered the painful emotions and disturbing physical sensations/thoughts that were previously present are no longer present.
3. EMDR allows the brain to reintegrate memories and store them in more appropriate parts of the brain. As a result of this, the client’s brain does the healing.

The possible risks of EMDR include the following:
1. Remembering and reprocessing a memory may bring difficult emotions or physical sensations. This is normal and will get better as those memories are reprocessed.
2. Reprocessing may continue after the end of a formal EMDR session. Additional memories, flashbacks, feelings and sensations may arise. Some clients also have dreams associated with a targeted memory. Frequently, the brain is able to process these additional memories without help but arrangements will be made with client for if coping becomes difficult or emotions become unbearable.
3. Those with medical conditions should consult their medical professionals prior to participating in EMDR therapy

Rates

Intake: $175

Session 60 min: $150

Session 45 min: $125

*In-Network for Anthem, Magellan, and Husky

For more information or to schedule your appointment, call us at (203) 691-1685