EMDR is a structured mental health treatment that supports a client in briefly focusing on a traumatic memory in order to create desensitization with the pain of that memory. While a client briefly processes a traumatic memory, the therapist will simultaneously guide a client in experiencing bilateral stimulation (at Mind Moving Therapy, this comes in the form or horizontal eye movements). These bilateral stimulations are associated with desensitization outcomes, such as a reduction in the intensity of emotions related to the traumatic memories. EMDR therapy is an extensively researched, effective mental health treatment modality that has been proven to help individuals reduce negative symptoms from traumatic experiences, PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, and social anxiety.

The American Psychiatric Association, the American Psychological Association, the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, National Alliance on Mental Illness, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the U.K. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs/Dept. of Defense, The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and the World Health Organization are among a few of the credited organizations that mark EMDR therapy as an effective treatment.

EMDR therapy is not a service provided by any mental health provider. EMDR therapy requires advanced training in order for it to be performed effectively and to avoid adverse side effects. At Mind Moving Therapy, we have two clinicians specifically trained in EMDR therapy: Aricka Marshall and Jamie Sarten.

EMDR therapy is not always a quick fix for complex trauma cases. However, for some clients, EMDR therapy can have quick and lasting results in just 5-10 sessions. EMDR therapy is also performed best with additional, traditional psychotherapy sessions performed before and after EMDR-specific sessions.

Some clients ask us if there is a risk to re-traumatize the event if discussed again in a therapeutic or EMDR-specific setting. Our trained therapists are experts in setting up both the proper safety and stability features necessary before beginning the EMDR process; these aspects of safety are in place to avoid a re-traumatization event. If you are seeking EMDR therapy in any therapy setting, we suggest you ask your therapist about the safety and stabilization steps to ensure your therapist is properly trained. Set up a free consultation with Aricka Marshall or Jamie Sarten to learn more about the process!