After completing part two of my Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) training this past weekend, I left feeling grounded, energized, and — dare I say — hopeful. This felt like a stark contrast to the energy of the weeks and months leading up to it given the anxiety we have collectively been buzzing with. So I thought about why that might be and, importantly, what that means about EMDR. This experience was particularly impactful not in spite of, but because of it coming right after an exceptionally charged week for the world. We’re all carrying a lot of pain and uncertainty these days, and diving into this training was a powerful reminder of why healing, repairing, grounding, and rooting ourselves in the here and now is more important than ever.
What is EMDR?
For those who might not be familiar, EMDR is a psychotherapy approach designed to help people process and heal from traumatic experiences. Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has been extensively researched and validated as an effective treatment for trauma and other distressing life events. The therapy involves using bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movements, to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge and allowing for more adaptive thinking and functioning.
During EMDR sessions, clients recall distressing memories while simultaneously focusing on external stimuli, often the therapist’s hand movements. This process helps integrate the traumatic memories into the brain’s natural healing processes, leading to a reduction in the symptoms of trauma.
A Powerful Reminder of Our Purpose
Going through EMDR training during such turbulent times has been both challenging and reaffirming. As we navigate global and personal adversities, the need for effective trauma therapy becomes even more apparent. The training reinforced the importance of our work in helping individuals heal and regain their sense of stability and peace.
Why Healing is More Important Than Ever
Our world is in need of healing, and EMDR offers a path to achieve it. This training has underscored the significance of grounding ourselves in the here and now, focusing on repairing the damage inflicted by trauma, and fostering a sense of hope and resilience.
An Invitation to Experience EMDR
If you’re curious about EMDR and its potential benefits, I encourage you to reach out and learn more. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care, and we believe in the transformative power of trauma therapy and EMDR. Whether you are dealing with recent events or longstanding trauma, EMDR can offer a path to healing and a renewed sense of well-being.
This training has been a profound reminder of why we do what we do. Amidst the pain and chaos, we remain committed to supporting our clients in their healing journeys. If you or someone you know is interested in exploring EMDR, we invite you to come and experience its benefits. Together, we can work towards a future where healing and resilience are within everyone’s reach.
