Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

What Is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)?

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a popular type of psychotherapy that’s useful in helping alleviate the symptoms that stem from trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). First developed in 1987 by Dr. Francine Shapiro, EMDR uses rapid and rhythmic eye movements under the instruction of a psychotherapist and is often combined with a series of tapping exercises or the playing of alternating sounds in each ear.

Disturbing events tend to stay locked in our subconscious and those events may replay in our minds repeatedly. EMDR aims to disrupt these painful memories so that healing can begin.

The symptoms seen most often in clients that could benefit from EMDR therapy include:

  • Experiences frequent panic attacks
  • Has several phobias
  • Has social or performance anxiety
  • Has a history of sexual or physical abuse
  • Has a history of drug and or alcohol abuse
  • Has a history of personality disorders.

EMDR Treatment Phases

EMDR has eight treatment phases, including:

  1. History Taking
  2. Preparation
  3. Assessment
  4. Desensitization
  1. Installation
  2. Body Scan
  3. Closure
  4. Reevaluation

Utilizing EMDR In Treatment

EMDR can prove beneficial for clients with a history of trauma including clients with depression or anxiety. When combined with our other effective therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), clients can make excellent progress in their recovery.

Note: EMDR is only utilized at the Villa Orlando, not at Smoky Mountain Lodge or the Stables Autism Program.

To learn more about our treatment programs, call us today at 407.624.5185 or complete our contact form.