EMDR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy is a type of psychotherapy designed to help people heal from traumatic experiences. Developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR focuses on helping individuals process and integrate distressing memories that have not been fully resolved. The therapy involves recalling traumatic memories while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movements, sounds, or taps. This process is believed to help rewire the brain, reducing the emotional intensity of the memories and promoting healing.

In an EMDR session, a therapist guides the patient through a structured process, starting with discussing the traumatic event and identifying negative beliefs associated with it. The therapist then uses bilateral stimulation while the patient focuses on the traumatic memory. Over time, this helps the brain process the memory more adaptively, allowing the person to feel less distressed by it. EMDR has been shown to be effective for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and other emotional difficulties, helping individuals regain a sense of control and well-being.

EMDR therapy works by helping the brain process and integrate traumatic memories that have not been fully resolved. Here’s a simplified breakdown of how it works:

1. Preparation and Assessment: The therapist first explains the EMDR process and ensures the patient is comfortable and ready to begin. They discuss the traumatic event and identify specific memories, along with any negative beliefs or emotions associated with them. The therapist may incorporates guided imagery, meditation. and breathing skills. The Flash Technique may be used for individuals who are highly sensitive to their traumatic memories, providing a gentler way to start the healing process.
2. Bilateral Stimulation: During the therapy session, the patient focuses on the traumatic memory while the therapist uses bilateral stimulation techniques. This can involve side-to-side eye movements, sounds, or taps. The purpose of this stimulation is to engage both hemispheres of the brain, which helps in processing the traumatic memory more effectively.
3. Desensitization and Reprocessing: As the patient concentrates on the traumatic memory and experiences bilateral stimulation, they begin to reprocess the memory. The therapist guides the patient through this process, helping them to gradually reduce the emotional intensity and negative impact of the memory. This can lead to new, more adaptive beliefs about the experience.
4. Installation and Body Scan: Once the memory has been desensitized, the therapist helps the patient reinforce positive beliefs and feelings associated with the memory. The patient is then guided through a “body scan” to check for any remaining physical tension or discomfort related to the memory, ensuring that it has been fully processed.
5. Closure and Reevaluation: At the end of the session, the therapist ensures the patient feels safe and grounded. They may provide techniques for self-soothing and coping if any distressing emotions arise between sessions. In subsequent sessions, the therapist and patient reevaluate the progress and address any remaining or new memories that need processing.

EMDR therapy is structured yet flexible, allowing for adjustments based on the individual’s needs and responses. It’s been found effective for treating various psychological issues, especially those rooted in trauma, by enabling the brain to heal from the past and move towards healthier functioning.

“As a mental health counselor for over two decades, I have helped individuals overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, family relationship issues, and other life stressors. Specializing in EMDR Therapy, I guide clients through this effective approach to process traumatic memories and achieve emotional healing. Additionally, as a certified Master Fitness Science Personal Trainer, I can integrate a wellness plan into our sessions to enhance your overall mental and physical health.

In our journey together, we can build a comprehensive support plan tailored to your needs. My experience includes leading clients through CBT, DBT, and mindfulness strategies, always with a focus on empathy and clinical expertise. I am committed to providing a safe, supportive space where we can work side by side to overcome traumas and barriers to your goals. I believe that a willingness to engage in the process is essential for success.”

Mike prides himself on offering a compassionate, empathetic approach, ensuring that clients feel supported and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey.

Go To Mike’s Therapist Profile

Mike Minnella, Licensed Clinical Professional
Counselor and EMDR Therapist

EMDR therapy can help a wide range of individuals, particularly those who have experienced traumatic events. Here are some of the groups that can benefit the most:

1. Individuals with PTSD: EMDR is especially effective for people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It helps them process and reduce the distress caused by traumatic memories, leading to improved emotional stability and reduced symptoms.
2. Survivors of Abuse and Violence: Those who have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, as well as victims of violence or crime, can find relief through EMDR therapy. It assists in processing the traumatic events and alleviating the associated negative emotions and beliefs.
3. Accident and Disaster Survivors: People who have gone through accidents, natural disasters, or other traumatic incidents can benefit from EMDR. It helps them process the shock and trauma, enabling them to recover more effectively.
4. Individuals with Anxiety and Depression: EMDR can also be beneficial for those dealing with anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. By addressing and reprocessing traumatic or distressing memories that may contribute to these conditions, EMDR can help improve overall mental health.
5. First Responders and Military Personnel: Those in high-stress professions, such as first responders and military personnel, often face traumatic experiences. EMDR therapy can help them process these experiences, reducing the risk of developing PTSD and other stress-related disorders.

Overall, EMDR therapy is a versatile treatment that can aid anyone struggling with the aftermath of trauma, helping them move towards healing and emotional well-being.