EMDR

I can learn from it.

I can laugh at it.

I can let it go.

Gregory Smith, EMDR Trainer

What is EMDR?  How is it Used?

EMDR is a therapeutic modality which can provide relief from trauma, sadness and overwhelming stress.  EMDR is both an information and emotional processing therapy.  The use of tactile pulsers, audio tones or eye movements of the client following the clinician's hand motions facilitate bi-lateral stimulation of the left and right cortex during the treatment protocol.  This bi-lateral stimulation promotes self-regulation and healing.

Specifically, the clinician asks the client to focus intently on an image or emotion regarding a traumatic event or stressful situation, while either holding a tactile pulser in each hand, listening to audio tones or using a structured treatment protoco which makes use of eye movementsl.  EMDR helps to reduce negative and debilitating client beliefs (cognitions) and serves to strengthen confidence and positive self-attributions (cognitions).  Thus therapeutic change can occur through belief systems, emotional reactions, or sensory processing on the client's part.

Who Endorses EMDR?

EMDR is endorsed by practice guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association, the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, the US Department of Defense, the US Department of Veteran's Affairs, and the Israeli National Council for Mental Health (as one of three methods recommended for the treatment of terror victims).  EMDR was used successfully to treat survivors of the Oklahoma City bombing, and after 9/11 in NYC.  For more information about the efficacy and recommendations, please go to the EMDR and Institute for Traumatic Stress Studies websites.

How Does Dr. Heiko Use EMDR with Adults and Children?

• With adults, the client holds the tactile pulsers in each hand, or uses the eye movement protocol.  Client safety and comfort are paramount.  EMDR sessions are scheduled for one and a half hours to two hours each, and billed accordingly.  The client is asked to record a log after leaving the office, and encouraged to call into the office with any concerns, since processing of traumatic material often continues to occur after the treatment session.

• A parent is typically present during the EMDR protocol used with children.  The parent sits next to the child or holds the child on their lap.  Children generally enjoy using the "buzzies" (Karen Wheeler's name for the tactile pulsers) in their hands, shoes or socks.  Usually this part of the therapeutic session lasts less than 20 minutes, and the rest of the session is focused on play therapy or family therapy interventions.

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