What is EDMR?
EDMR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that focuses on the healing of deep emotional distress caused by disturbing life experiences and trauma. EDMR therapy is extensively researched and is a method proven to help those suffering from PTSD, anxiety, depression, panic disorders, and other conditions. Although it is commonly thought that healing from severe emotional pain requires significant amounts of time, EDMR shows that the mind can, in fact, heal from psychological trauma in much the same way as the body heals from physical trauma.
How Does EDMR Therapy Work?
The methods of EDMR therapy rely heavily on the brain’s neural networks. Traumatic memories are often archived in the right hemisphere of the brain. EDMR therapy helps to build bridges and access resources that facilitate integration, allowing a traumatic experience to be connected with a lasting reparative experience. Treatment is conducted in phases that focus attention equally on the past, present, and future. Though all memories are still maintained following treatment, they no longer trigger the negative emotion and response.
Who Might Seek EDMR Therapy?
There is no specific age or demographic that benefits from EMDR therapy more than any other. In any individual, EDMR therapy can be used to address a wide variety of challenges including:
Violence and abuse
Substance abuse and addiction
Sexual Assault
Anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias
Chronic illness and medical issues
Depression and personality disorders
Dissociative disorders
PTSD and trauma
Stress-related issues
Grief and loss
Performance anxiety
Eating disorders
How is EDMR Different?
Unlike other treatment methods, EMDR does not require talking in detail about deep, sensitive issues. Changing thoughts, behaviors, or emotions resulting from trauma is not the aim, rather EMDR methods seek to aid the brain in its natural healing process. This results in the resolution of distressing issues, not the masking of them. As one of Utah’s best rehab centers, Renaissance Ranch offers a wealth of experience in EMDR treatment. If you are passing through a time of particular distress, please contact us for more information or schedule an appointment.