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  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

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    Find Healing with an Experienced EMDR Therapist Near You

    Have distressing or adverse life events caused anxiety, depression, or disconnection?

    Do you need professional help coming to terms with the loss of a loved one?

    Do you suffer from trauma related scars, nightmares, or flashbacks?

    Do you experience migraine, chronic, or phantom pain?

    Are you suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

    You should know you are not alone.

    At New Beginnings, we offer EMDR therapy as a powerful and research-backed treatment for individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and other distressing life experiences. Our licensed EMDR therapists provide a safe, compassionate environment where you can process painful memories and reclaim peace in your life.

    Why Choose EMDR?

    According to a study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress, the prevalence of PTSD is 8.3%, 4.7%, and 3.8% of the population, over a lifetime, the past year, and the past six month period. Add to this those who don’t fit the PTSD criteria yet face health challenges after enduring adverse life events and the numbers are huge.

    This means that millions of Americans just like you are suffering from serious, life altering signs and symptoms, and they need help to heal and recover.

    And as overwhelming and complex as trauma can feel, recovery is possible. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) has been shown to be effective for issues like those mentioned above, and more.

    As an article published in The Permanente Journal says, “EMDR therapy provides…an efficient approach to address psychological and physiologic symptoms stemming from adverse life experiences. ” (1)

    So if these describe you

    • You struggle with anxiety or depression
    • You relive traumatic events with accompanying unwanted memories, vivid images, palpitations, panic attacks
    • You are easily startled, feel on edge or are often irritable
    • You have trouble experiencing joy, love or other positive emotions
    • Chronic pain is negatively impacting on your life
    • You’d like professional help to better cope with previous trauma
    • You wish to create an easier, happier, more connected life

    …Then eye movement desensitization and reprocessing could be the right therapeutic approach for you.

    How Does EMDR Work?

    EMDR is a powerful psychotherapeutic approach that helps lessen, even eliminate, the painful mental and physical responses raised by the memory of traumatic events and seeks to create new healthier patterns in your brain.

    Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses guided eye movements or bilateral stimulation to help your brain reprocess traumatic memories and reduce their emotional impact. In EMDR we work with you through eight critical phases to safely identify the distressing memory or memories and those situations that bring emotional and physical suffering, desensitize your body and brain to harmful responses, and aim for rapid and positive therapeutic change. We also teach you techniques to manage stress on your own.

    Success with EMDR results in relief from emotional and mental distress, adjusts and redefines beliefs, and contributes to a relaxed and calmer mind and body.

    Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR

    How do I know if EMDR is right for me?

    EMDR is an effective tool for those who have experienced past trauma, have PTSD, are suffering from anxiety or panic attacks, or anyone who wants to process past memories.

    EMDR is not a good fit for those who have recently gone through a traumatic experience, as they may not be ready for this type of processing. They may benefit more from crisis intervention and stabilization first, and then can move into EMDR. EMDR is also not a good fit for those with severe conditions such as psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or those who struggle with substance use. They may benefit from other forms of care first.

    Does EMDR therapy re-traumatize people?

    EMDR is designed to help you revisit traumatic memories without becoming overwhelmed and process them in a healthier way.

    Your therapist will always go at a pace that feels safe, and grounding techniques are used to help manage emotional intensity. Re-processing trauma is not an easy process, so doing it alongside a trained therapist can significantly improve quality of life.

    Can you perform EMDR Therapy on Yourself?

    While technically one could perform EMDR therapy on themselves, it is not recommended. EMDR works best in a guided environment with a trained professional. Having a safe space with someone to ensure the client’s safety and prevent re-traumatization is crucial to effective EMDR practice.

    How long does EMDR therapy take?

    The length of treatment varies based on the individual and the complexity of their experiences. Some people notice significant changes in just a few sessions, while others benefit from a longer-term process. Your therapist will work with you to create a plan that fits your needs.

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