Elizabeth Durbin Counseling, PLLC

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR Therapy, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy, is a clinically proven approach used to help individuals heal from the distressing effects of past trauma, anxiety, and other adverse life experiences. Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR utilizes bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, to facilitate the brain's natural healing process.

I offer EMDR therapy as a compassionate and effective treatment option, empowering clients to process traumatic memories, alleviate emotional distress, and foster lasting resilience. My goal for therapy is to provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore and transform their traumatic experiences, ultimately leading to greater emotional well-being and personal growth.

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How Does EMDR Therapy Work?

Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) Model

EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which explains how the brain stores memories differently, particularly traumatic ones. Developed by Francine Shapiro, PhD, EMDR recognizes that during upsetting events, the brain's ability to process and connect memories can be disrupted.

Trauma memories may not be processed in a healthy way, akin to a wound that hasn't healed properly. Consequently, the brain may not register that the danger has passed. This can lead to the reinforcement of negative experiences by newer events, disrupting the connection between senses and memories and causing emotional distress.

Even suppressed memories can contribute to this cycle, as the mind attempts to avoid painful recollections. However, these memories can still manifest in negative symptoms and behaviors. EMDR aims to address these disruptions by facilitating the processing of traumatic memories, allowing for healing and resolution.