How did EMDR therapy start? Who discovered EMDR? Why does EMDR work?
Simply put, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) therapy uses eye movements to facilitate and accelerate healing from emotional trauma.
EMDR History
While strolling through a park in 1987 Francine Shapiro, PhD noticed that her eye movements seemed to decrease the negative emotions that she associated with her own traumatic past. Repeated experimentation on herself and others proved that these eye movements had a desensitizing effect on trauma and anxiety after just one session. The technique was even more effective when used multiple times and in conjunction with other therapeutic processes.
Referred to as EMDR, it worked so well at treating PTSD, Dr. Shapiro began to quietly train other licensed clinicians in the methodology. In 1995, the “experimental” label was removed.
EMDR has been developed into an eight-step process that addresses past, present, and future traumatic or triggering events using memories, bilateral eye movements, and mental imagery. EMDR seeks to assist the brain in healing from trauma by allowing patients to tackle the triggers while diverting their attention. This lets the client handle the exposure but minimizing the negative response. You are removing or reformatting the painful memory so that it ceases to be an impediment to healing, and instead becomes a source of strength.
Today, EMDR is advocated for both children and adults by the World Health Organization, American Psychiatric Organization, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Department of Defense.
EMDR Therapy in Albuquerque/Rio Rancho, New Mexico at Trauma Treatment Center
If you would like more information about the EMDR services we offer at Trauma Treatment Center, please contact us.