What is EMDR?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based psychotherapy treatment that helps people heal from trauma and other distressing life experiences. Developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in 1987, EMDR is found to be highly effective for post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic attacks, eating disorders, addictions, and anxiety. It can help people process upsetting memories, thoughts, and feelings, and can reduce the power of those memories. It can also help people replace negative thoughts with more positive ones.

How Does EMDR Work?

During EMDR, patients recall a traumatic memory while simultaneously focusing on a rhythmic back-and-forth eye movement or sound. The goal is to reprogram the memory with a more positive belief. EMDR may be done as an adjunct to DBT or RO-DBT, or as a treatment on its own.

Benefits of EMDR:

• Reduces symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Alleviates depression and anxiety

• Improves self-esteem and self-worth

• Enhances overall mental health and well-being

Who can benefit from EMDR?

• Loss of a loved one

• Childhood abuse or neglect

• Sexual assault or abuse

• Natural disasters or accidents

• Other traumatic events

If you or a loved one is struggling with the effects of trauma, EMDR therapy at DBT Eastside may be a good fit for you or your loved one. Contact us for more information about how our program can help you! Our practice is based out of Bellevue, WA and through both in-person and virtual services we work with people in all around the Seattle area and throughout Washington State.