EMDR is most commonly known for helping people process ‘big T’ traumas related to PTSD symptoms from abuse, a traumatic accident, etc. And, I often use EMDR with clients to heal attachment – based traumas (‘little t’s) that most of us experience to some degree. Attachment trauma is a relational wound we experienced as a child (i.e. abandonment, lack of attunement, emotional neglect, etc.). We may notice that certain patterns or “triggers” are showing up in our adult intimate relationships that feel difficult to shift out of. EMDR can help us to loop out of these patterns and heal our nervous system.
What does an EMDR session look like?
EMDR therapy uses bi-lateral stimulation through either eye-movement, self tapping, tones, or hand held tappers to stimulates a sensory experience to unlock the nervous system and allow your brain to process difficult memories or challenging or “stuck” emotions. It is similar to what is thought to happen in REM (dream sleep), where unconscious material is processed. In addition to the bi-lateral stimulation, the therapist supports the client in accessing the details of the trauma (the ‘picture,’ emotions, somatic experience and negative beliefs).
Through this process, the left and right sides of the brain are linking, and the trauma is being ‘unlocked’ in the nervous system. The main goal is for the client to feel a significant decrease in the level of disturbance from the traumatic experience or memory. A successful EMDR session will result in the client feeling the trauma move through their system, discovering integration and healing.
Let’s connect
I offer a free 20 minute discovery call to explore the possibility of working together. This provides an opportunity to learn more about how EMDR could support you on your unique healing journey.
