CBT and EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization

& Reprocessing (EMDR)

​EMDR is a technique designed to alleviate the emotional pain associated with traumatic memories.  Francine Shapiro, Ph.D., developed this therapy that facilitates accessing and processing traumatic memories to bring them to adaptive resolution. Successful EMDR treatment leads to relief of emotional distress, reformulation of negative beliefs, and reduction in physiological arousal.

With EMDR therapy, the client thinks about the emotionally disturbing memory or experience in brief  doses while simultaneously focusing on the "here and now".  Bilateral stimulation (left-to-right repeated vibrations of a "tapper" held in each hand) leads to a decrease in reactivity and a reduction in both emotional and physical distress.  In the opinion of this therapist, EMDR has brought a deep and productive dynamic to the field of mental health; it has been a game changer in my practice, providing tangible relief in life-altering ways.

​

Dr. Shapiro (1995, 2001) hypothesized that EMDR therapy facilitates access to our traumatic memory networks so that new associations are forged between the traumatic memory and more adaptive information. New associations emerge naturally, along with new learning, elimination of emotional distress, and development of cognitive insights.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​​CBT and EMDR work beautifully together! While CBT provides structure, insight, and practical coping strategies, EMDR facilitates the processing of distressing memories and experiences that may be driving current symptoms.  Together, these approaches support both symptom relief and deeper resolution, allowing for more comprehensive and therapeutic, often life-long, positive outcomes.