EMDR Therapy in Colorado Springs
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a structured psychotherapy approach designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Polaris Wellness Group can use EMDR if it’s the right fit for one of our clients. All of our therapists have specialized training in EMDR, and our massage and reiki provider offers trauma informed massage and energy work.
Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR integrates elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy with bilateral stimulation, typically through eye movements, taps, or tones. The process involves accessing traumatic memories, identifying associated negative beliefs, and then using bilateral stimulation to facilitate the brain’s natural healing mechanisms. This assists in processing the distressing memories and replacing negative beliefs with more adaptive ones. EMDR is utilized for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but its applications have expanded to include various anxiety disorders, phobias, and other conditions where distressing memories are central.
Benefits of EMDR
There are a number of benefits to EMDR treatment. Including:
- Effective treatment for PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and trauma-related symptoms.
- Facilitates processing of traumatic memories, reducing their emotional impact.
- Helps to alleviate distressing symptoms such as anxiety, flashbacks, and nightmares.
- Can lead to significant improvements in overall psychological well-being.
- Integrates well with other therapeutic approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
- Provides a structured framework that guides the therapeutic process.
- Generally shorter in duration compared to some other forms of therapy.
- May help to enhance emotional resilience and improve coping mechanisms.
- Can be adapted for use with various populations, including children and adolescents.
- Supported by a growing body of research demonstrating its effectiveness across different conditions.
Who is Right for EMDR Treatment?
You might be a right fit for EMDR Therapy if you fall into any of these categories:
- Experienced Trauma: Individuals who have experienced significant trauma, such as abuse, accidents, or combat-related events.
- Symptom Persistence: Those experiencing persistent symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, or anxiety related to past events.
- Seeking Rapid Relief: Individuals looking for a therapy that can potentially provide relief in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional talk therapies.
- Openness to Reliving Memories: Willingness to engage in reprocessing traumatic memories and exploring associated emotions.
- Collaborative Approach: Comfort with a therapy that involves active participation and collaboration between therapist and client.
- Comprehensive Assessment: Completion of a thorough assessment with a qualified therapist to determine appropriateness and readiness for EMDR.
- Support System: Availability of a support system or coping mechanisms to manage any distress that may arise during or after sessions.
- No Current Crisis: Not currently in crisis or acute mental health condition that may require immediate stabilization before engaging in trauma-focused therapy.
- Therapist Recommendation: Recommendation from a qualified therapist who believes EMDR therapy would be beneficial based on individual circumstances and needs.
- Desire for Lasting Change: Desire to address underlying issues contributing to symptoms and achieve lasting emotional healing and resolution.
Want to find out how to become a Polaris Wellness Client?
A Safe and Inclusive Place
PWG is passionate and committed to helping all clients. We offer a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment to culturally diverse and LGBTQIA+ clients. We are dedicated to providing culturally competent, quality wellness services with providers who are supportive, aligned, and accepting.
