EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) emdr therapy emdr ther
Our Expertise
Mrs. Nguyen is a leading trauma specialist in Lloydminster, AB & SK, handling a full caseload of complex trauma cases. She has helped clients uncover the roots of lifelong behavioral and relationship challenges, guiding them toward healing and resolution. One of her primary therapeutic approaches is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which she frequently utilizes in her practice.
EMDR is a psychotherapy approach designed to help individuals process and heal from trauma, distressing memories, anxiety, and other emotional challenges. It was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s and has since become an evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and other mental health conditions. EMDR involves a structured 8-phase treatment process that helps individuals reprocess traumatic memories by stimulating both sides of the brain (bilateral stimulation), often through eye movements, but also through tapping, auditory tones, or other sensory activities. This stimulation is believed to facilitate the brain’s natural healing processes, allowing the client to integrate distressing memories in a more adaptive way.
The 8 Phases of EMDR
History and Treatment Planning
History and Treatment Planning
History and Treatment Planning
The therapist works with the client to identify specific traumatic memories and other issues to target in therapy.
The therapist also assesses the client’s current coping skills and readiness for reprocessing trauma.
Preparation
History and Treatment Planning
History and Treatment Planning
The therapist explains the EMDR process and establishes a safe environment for the client.
Grounding techniques and resources (like creating a “safe place”) are used to help the client manage anxiety.
Assessment
History and Treatment Planning
Desensitization
The therapist helps the client identify the specific memory or event to focus on.
The client is asked to identify negative beliefs related to the memory (e.g., “I am powerless”) and replace them with positive, adaptive beliefs (e.g., “I am strong”).
Desensitization
Desensitization
Desensitization
Using bilateral stimulation (usually eye movements), the client recalls the traumatic memory while the therapist guides them through the reprocessing.
As the client processes the memory, the emotional charge of the event typically decreases.
Installation
Desensitization
Installation
The therapist helps the client focus on the positive belief they want to replace the negative one with, reinforcing the new adaptive belief.
Body Scan
Desensitization
Installation
The therapist asks the client to notice any physical tension or discomfort in their body while recalling the memory.
Any remaining tension is processed using bilateral stimulation to help the body release stored trauma.
Closure
Reevaluation
Reevaluation
The session is closed with grounding techniques to help the client return to a state of calm.
The therapist may ask the client to note how they feel about the memory after the session to track progress.
Reevaluation
Reevaluation
Reevaluation
The therapist evaluates the effectiveness of the treatment in subsequent sessions.
Any residual distress is addressed, and the client’s progress is reviewed.