Question 1

What is EMDR?

Accepted Answer

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences.  Repeated studies show that by using EMDR therapy people can experience the benefits of psychotherapy that once took years to make a difference.

Question 2

Who is a good candidate for EMDR?

Accepted Answer

Individuals struggling with symptoms of PTSD, Anxiety, Depression and Mood Disorders are great candidates for EMDR. Additionally, clients who are willing and emotionally prepared to discuss traumatic events and potentially re-live emotional memories are good candidates for EMDR. If you're not ready to discuss trauma, we get it - and Neurofeedback Therapy is a better option for you.

Question 3

What happens during an EMDR session?

Accepted Answer

Your sessions will be guided by an eight part process and will therefore look different from session to session. Some sessions will require your therapist to assess readiness for emotional processing and delving into potential traumatic memories. Other sessions will involve discussing memories, sensations in the body and negative beliefs about the memory while tapping, listening to tones and tracking movements in the eyes. Your therapist will work collaboratively with you to determine what part of the eight step process is most appropriate for you to start with. Interestingly, the process may not be linear and you will likely move forward and backward in the steps based on readiness.

Question 4

Does EMDR replace Neurofeedback Therapy?

Accepted Answer

Nope! These modalities are vastly different in their approaches and outcomes. Think of EMDR Therapy as basic counseling for trauma with whipped cream, sprinkles and hot fudge on top. It is a specialized form of therapy and gets deep into the emotional state of an individual with a scientifically backed formula. Neurofeedback Therapy, on the other hand, utilizes operant conditioning and technology to alter brainwave activity and therefore neuronal connections that are contributing to negative behavioral patterns such as panic attacks, nightmares, anxiety, brain fog and more. Neurofeedback is passive and does NOT involve talking about memories/emotions.

Question 5

How many sessions of EMDR do I need to do?

Accepted Answer

There is no straightforward answer for this question, unfortunately! Each client is different and will need to meet with a therapist on our team who specializes in EMDR to understand how many sessions they may need. At a minimum, you can expect to complete eight EMDR therapy sessions in replacement of eight regular counseling sessions.

Question 6

Is EMDR effective for body dysmorphia disorder?

Accepted Answer

Yes! 'Brown, McGoldrick, and Buchanan (1997) found successful remission in five of seven consecutive cases of Body Dysmorphic Disorder cases after 1-3 EMDR therapy sessions that processed the etiological memory.'

Question 7

What role does placebo play in EMDR treatment?

Accepted Answer

Many studies have found that EMDR is more effective when compared to a placebo treatment. EMDR has also been studied in comparison to active listening (regular talk therapy without a specific modality attached) and cognitive therapy, psychodynamic therapy and behavioral therapy. In all of these cases, EMDR has had more succesful outcomes.

EMDR Therapy in Denver

What to Expect From An EMDR Session

EMDR Therapists in Denver