What Is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy that uses bilateral stimulation, eye movements, and other forms of stimulation to help people process traumatic experiences, manage stress, and reduce or resolve symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). EMDR has been utilized in the clinical setting for over 30 years and is considered one of the most effective forms of trauma treatment given its ability to address both emotional distress as well as behavioral difficulties associated with PTSD. The main goal of EMDR therapy is to help individuals reprocess their distressing memories so they can better cope with them and move forward.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR works by targeting the unprocessed memories stored in the brain that are connected with a traumatic event. During the session, your therapist will guide you through different sets of bilateral stimulation exercises that involve eye movements or other forms of alternating input between the left-side and right-side of your brain. This stimulation helps to break up stuck thought patterns related to a traumatic experience and allows for more adaptive ways of thinking about it. Additionally, your therapist will also be helping you build coping skills throughout each session which can be used when experiencing future triggers or stressors.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy:
Reduce Intrusive Thoughts & Flashbacks: EMDR can help reduce intrusive thoughts and flashbacks associated with traumatic memories.
Decrease Anxiety & Depression Symptoms: As individuals begin reprocessing distressing memories, they may begin noticing a decrease in anxiety and depression symptoms as well.
Improve Self Esteem & Coping Skills: Through practicing mindfulness techniques during sessions, individuals may see an increase in self esteem & learn healthy coping strategies for managing overwhelming emotions.
Manage Emotions More Effectively: With increased understanding of how their mind works, EMDR clients can gain greater control over their emotions allowing them to make more informed decisions about how to respond to various situations.
Strengthen Relationships: Often times trauma is connected to our relationships. Processing events through EMDR can lead to improved communication within relationships both old & new by addressing past traumas.
Should I Try EMDR Therapy?
If you have experienced trauma or are struggling with any form of mental health difficulties such as PTSD, depression, or anxiety, then considering Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy might be beneficial for you. While no single form of therapy will work for everyone, research has found that EMDR is an effective treatment option for many individuals who want to move forward from their past experiences without being overwhelmed by them. Additionally, because this type of therapy focuses on building skills rather than just talking about difficult topics it makes it easier for some people to engage in the therapeutic process allowing them long-term affects even after completing treatment.
Take Action
Every individual’s needs are different which means finding a therapist who understands your specific goals is key when seeking out any type therapy. If you think that Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy could be helpful, then call us or schedule an appointment online. Your journey towards healing begins now and we are ready to help you.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy that uses bilateral stimulation (like guided eye movements) to help people process traumatic memories, reduce distress, and alleviate symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression. In Springfield, MO, EMDR is offered by licensed therapists at Psych Associates who are trained in trauma-informed care.
EMDR therapy is a good option for people in Springfield who have experienced trauma—such as accidents, abuse, loss, or other distressing life events—and are coping with persistent symptoms like intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, nightmares, or overwhelming anxiety. It can also benefit those whose talk therapy has helped some, but not sufficiently, and who want an approach that addresses both emotional and physiological responses to trauma.
The number of EMDR sessions varies depending on how long ago the trauma occurred, its severity, how many memories need processing, and individual resilience. Some people begin noticing relief—such as fewer flashbacks or less emotional distress—after just a few sessions. More complex trauma may require several months of EMDR and other supporting therapeutic approaches. Your therapist in Springfield will collaborate with you to set goals and track progress.
EMDR is generally considered safe, but like any intensive psychological therapy, it can bring up strong emotions, vivid memories, or discomfort during processing. Therapists in Springfield prepare clients by building coping and stabilization skills, to ensure you have sufficient emotional support before engaging deeply with trauma.
When seeking EMDR therapy in Springfield, Missouri, it’s important to choose a licensed therapist who has completed EMDRIA-approved training. At Psych Associates, our therapists are experienced in both EMDR and other trauma-informed approaches, ensuring safe and effective care. You can schedule a consultation to discuss your needs, confirm insurance coverage, and create a personalized treatment plan for PTSD, anxiety, or trauma recovery.