Trauma/EMDR Therapy in Salt Lake City and throughout Utah
You are more than your trauma.
Does it ever feel like you’re in a loop of not thinking, but simply reacting?
When people hear the word “trauma” they often imagine the big stuff- wars, natural disasters, violent crimes, etc. These catastrophic experiences are often referred to as “Big T” Trauma. Over the years, the definition of trauma has been expanded to include a myriad of human experiences which are now commonly referred to as “Little t” Trauma. By enlarging the definition of trauma, mental health professionals are able to acknowledge the prolific and profound effects trauma has in shaping our lives.
The effects of trauma can show up in many different ways:
Emotional reactions such as experiencing fear, anxiety, and panic
Mental reactions such as reduced concentration, and intrusive thoughts about the event
Physical reactions such as fatigue, stomach issues, and disturbed sleep
Behavioral reactions such as avoiding reminders of the event, and losing touch with normal daily routines.
Your trauma is not your fault, but healing is your responsibility.
How Trauma/EMDR Therapy Works
Your life doesn’t look the way you want it to.
EMDR therapy works by helping individuals process and integrate distressing memories that are causing emotional or psychological difficulties. During a session, the therapist will ask you to focus on a specific traumatic memory or distressing thought while engaging in bilateral stimulation, which typically involves guided eye movements. This stimulation is thought to help the brain process the memory more effectively, reducing its emotional charge and allowing you to reframe the experience in a less distressing way.
As you focus on the memory and the bilateral stimulation, your brain starts to process the information more adaptively, helping to lessen the intensity of the negative emotions associated with the memory. This can make the memory feel less overwhelming and reduce symptoms like anxiety, flashbacks, or intrusive thoughts. The therapy is designed to be conducted at a pace that feels comfortable for you, allowing you to process and integrate the memory gradually.
EMDR therapy typically involves several phases, including history-taking, preparation, desensitization (where the bilateral stimulation occurs), installation (of positive beliefs), and body scan (to address any residual tension). Throughout the process, your therapist provides support and guidance, helping you navigate any emotional discomfort and ensuring that you feel safe and supported. The goal is to help you achieve a more balanced and less distressing perspective on the traumatic memories.
FAQs about Trauma/EMDR Therapy
If you have more questions have a look at the FAQ page or reach out.
-
EMDR is a therapy method that helps you process difficult memories and emotions associated with past trauma. It involves a structured approach where you focus on a troubling memory while simultaneously engaging in specific eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, like taps or sounds.
-
During an EMDR session, you’ll be asked to recall a distressing memory or thought. While you think about this memory, the therapist will guide you through a series of rapid, back-and-forth eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation. This process helps your brain process and integrate the memory more effectively, reducing its emotional charge and making it easier for you to manage.
-
EMDR can help reduce the intensity of negative emotions associated with traumatic memories, making it easier to cope with them and move forward. It’s a collaborative process, and your therapist will work with you to ensure you’re comfortable and supported throughout. Many people find EMDR to be a powerful tool for healing and gaining relief from distressing memories.
-
Many people find EMDR to be effective, especially for trauma-related issues like PTSD. Research shows that it can lead to significant improvements in symptoms for many individuals. However, effectiveness can vary, and it’s important to work with a trained therapist to assess its suitability for your specific needs.
-
Reach out to schedule a free consultation call to learn more.
How Trauma Therapy in Salt Lake City, Utah can help you:
Examine traumatic events in a safe and supportive space.
Utilize the brain’s natural processing mechanism for processing.
Relieve the intensity of triggers, panic attacks, and avoidant behavior.
Help you begin to heal and get your life back.
