According to the American Psychiatric Association Guidelines(2004), EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies (CBT) are declared equally effective to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in adults. In fact, they are often two of the top methods recommended for PTSD. Both are considered well-supported by the evidence and research. Unlike CBT which has “homework”, EMDR can be applied in the therapist’s office with no outside work.

You may at first but this usually passes quickly. As you participate in the EMDR treatment, you should become more and more desensitized to your negative feelings. You will be in a safe setting but are always welcome to stop at any time.

This is doubtful. But there are precautions to take to make sure your experience is effective and not harmful. Make sure you receive therapy from someone like me who is formally trained in EMDR and who is skilled at recognizing and treating trauma.

No, you don’t have to share every detail of your past experiences. Just share what you feel comfortable sharing. The therapy will be just as effective.

An empathetic discussion with a therapist or counselor about negative experiences is effective and sometimes is all that is needed. EMDR’s use of bilateral stimulation goes over and beyond counseling and uses the brain’s natural ability to adapt and store memories. EMDR helps to break through the emotional interference or blocks that can get “stuck” in the brain. Other therapy approaches might be used, as well.

People respond differently and have different struggles they are addressing, both big and small. However, many patients report seeing improved emotional relief after the first session.

Some patients only need one session. Others may need multiple sessions to see results. Your overall treatment plan and goals will determine the number of EMDR sessions you might need, but that plan will be flexible if you experience results sooner or if you need more time.

In 1988, Dr. Francine Shapiro, an American psychologist, noticed a connection between increased eye movements and a reduction of anxiety. When applying bilateral stimulation to her patients, their traumatic symptoms and anxiety lessened. Naming the therapy EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, she soon shared this treatment with the rest of the world.

More than thirty years later, we can confidently claim that EMDR therapy is backed by a large body of research. Additionally, EMDR treatments for children and teens have been developed by experts in the field. Thanks to Dr. Shapiro and the many therapists following her example, EMDR is gaining in popularity to treat all kinds of trauma and help patients return to a state of calmness and confidence.

Watch an excellent video on EMDR therapy at this website: https://www.emdria.org/

Centrally located near Boise Towne Square.

No, but I can provide forms to submit to insurance.

By appointment.

1-hour appointments or 4-hour intensives or 3-day retreats.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is nonpharmacological and does not involve hypnosis. It involves an integrated treatment approach including identifying negative memories and using bilateral stimulation and feedback to work through emotional interference. The goal is to update your thoughts and beliefs about yourself with healthier ones. We will work together to integrate these healthier perspectives and beliefs into your life.

Thousands of people have reported healing from this psychotherapeutic procedure. With EMDR we are able to enhance the positive experiences and reduce the stress and impact of the distressful experiences.