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  • Writer's pictureBecky VanDenburgh

Using EMDR Therapy for Trauma at Think Well Live Well Counseling and Telepsychiatry




In the realm of mental health therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) has emerged as a powerful and effective treatment for trauma. At Think Well Live Well Counseling, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the most advanced and evidence-based therapeutic interventions available. EMDR therapy stands out as one of the most impactful approaches for those dealing with trauma, and our practice is committed to leveraging its benefits to help our clients achieve meaningful recovery and improved well-being.


Understanding EMDR Therapy

Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR therapy is designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR involves a structured process that includes eight phases, incorporating elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with bilateral sensory input, such as side-to-side eye movements. This approach helps clients process and integrate traumatic experiences in a way that reduces their lingering emotional impact.


The EMDR Process

The EMDR process at Think Well Live Well Counseling begins with a comprehensive assessment to determine the suitability of EMDR for each client. The eight phases of EMDR therapy are then employed as follows:

  1. History Taking: Gathering detailed information about the client's history and identifying traumatic memories to target.

  2. Preparation: Ensuring the client understands the EMDR process and developing necessary coping mechanisms.

  3. Assessment: Identifying specific aspects of the traumatic memory and establishing baselines for emotional distress.

  4. Desensitization: Using bilateral stimulation to process and diminish the emotional intensity of the traumatic memory.

  5. Installation: Strengthening positive beliefs to replace the negative ones associated with the trauma.

  6. Body Scan: Identifying and addressing any residual physical discomfort linked to the trauma.

  7. Closure: Ensuring the client returns to a state of stability at the end of each session.

  8. Reevaluation: Reviewing progress and planning future sessions as needed.


Benefits of EMDR Therapy

The efficacy of EMDR therapy in treating trauma is well-documented, with numerous studies highlighting its benefits:

  1. Rapid Relief: Clients often experience quicker relief from symptoms compared to other forms of therapy. EMDR can significantly reduce the duration of treatment needed to achieve substantial improvements.

  2. Holistic Healing: EMDR addresses the emotional, cognitive, and physical components of trauma, facilitating comprehensive healing.

  3. Empowerment: By reprocessing traumatic memories, clients gain a sense of control and empowerment over their experiences.

  4. Long-Term Results: EMDR has been shown to produce enduring positive changes, reducing the likelihood of relapse and promoting long-term mental health.


Client Success Stories

At Think Well Live Well Counseling, we have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of EMDR therapy. Many clients who have struggled with trauma for years have found relief and renewed hope through our EMDR sessions. For instance, one client, who had been dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a car accident, reported significant reductions in flashbacks and anxiety after just a few sessions of EMDR. Another client, a survivor of childhood abuse, was able to process deeply buried emotions and move towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.


EMDR therapy represents a cornerstone of our therapeutic offerings at Think Well Live Well Counseling. Its unique approach to processing trauma has provided our clients with a pathway to healing that is both efficient and profound. We remain committed to utilizing EMDR as a primary tool in our practice, ensuring that those who walk through our doors are met with compassionate, cutting-edge care designed to foster resilience and recovery.

For individuals grappling with the weight of traumatic experiences, EMDR therapy at Think Well Live Well Counseling offers a beacon of hope and a route to reclaiming their lives. Our experienced therapists are dedicated to guiding clients through the EMDR process, helping them to think well and live well in the aftermath of trauma.

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