EMDR was invented by a psychologist called Francine Shapiro in 1987. The therapy she developed is based on a natural phenomenon that occurs during Rapid Eye Movement sleep where the mind naturally heals itself and processes events and feelings by way of dreams. Dr. Shapiro replicated this phenomenon while awake and noticed that moving her eyes from side to side seemed to reduce the impact and occurrence of her own distressing memories. In time she theorized that trauma causes negative emotions to be stored in trauma time which is why often times one responds as if still stuck in the place where the trauma happened. EMDR is a treatment method that uses bilateral stimulation similar to the REM.

WHO MIGHT BENEFIT FROM EMDR?

Whilst EMDR was originally established as a treatment for PTSD for war veterans, contemporary research has found it to be effective in treating an array of clinical issues arising from traumatic or distressing life events. This includes, but is not limited to, depression, anxiety, stress, grief, phobias, addictions, trauma and dissociation. 

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF EMDR?

• Non-intrusive
• Non-threatening
• Permanent resolution of issues.
• The ability to transform self-limiting beliefs into beliefs that support your goals and desires for your life.
• Healing of trauma, flashbacks, night terrors and dissociation.
• Ongoing self-improvement.
• Relatively quick results compared to talk therapy.
• Improves the ability to live a holistic life.

HOW LONG DOES EMDR TAKE?

Whilst EMDR has been found to be better comparable to more traditional treatments (such as talk therapy, CBT or exposure therapy), it is also believed that results can be achieved in a much shorter timeframe than when using other therapeutic approaches. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to trauma therapy, and that includes EMDR. Whilst results can be seen very quickly, it is important to be aware that for long standing, complex trauma, this work can still take a significant period of time.

HOW CAN STELLA HELP?

Stella is extremely skilled at practicing EMDR. She has used this approach in the therapy room since 2008 and is familiar and comfortable using a variety of EMDR protocols. She understands the nuances of the way this technique works and is brilliantly adept at using the information given to her to benefit her clients in the deepest, most meaningful, life changing ways.