EMDR Therapy is available here in Mt Pleasant, Michigan. Schedule an appointment to have a counselor evaluate if EMDR is suitable for you. EMDR is a dynamic tool to aid in alleviating distress from PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), Anxiety, Depression, and more. Many symptoms can vary from person to person but generally include fear, sadness, and anger. Other symptoms may include difficulty sleeping, difficulty concentrating, and changes in appetite or weight. Often people feel a negative self-perception. Read further for more information, and view the video at the bottom of this page to understand how EMDR can help you.
Who Can Benefit From EMDR
EMDR therapy can be helpful for individuals who have experienced a wide range of mental health concerns, including:
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Anxiety/Panic Attacks/Phobias
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Chronic Illness/Medical Issues
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Depression/Bipolar Disorders
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Dissociative Disorders
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Eating Disorders
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Grief and Loss
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Pain
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Performance Anxiety
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Personality Disorders
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PTSD and other trauma issues
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Sexual Assault
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Sleep Disturbance
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Violence and Abuse
How Does EMDR Work
EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a type of psychotherapy used to help people struggling with mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. It's based on the idea that when traumatic events occur, they can be stored in the brain in an unprocessed form, leading to psychological distress.
During EMDR therapy, your counselor will guide you through eye movements or bilateral stimulation (such as tapping or audio tones). At the same time, they focus on that specific memory or issue. This process helps the brain process the negative experience healthily, allowing you to let go of the negative feelings and emotions associated with the experience. The advantages of EMDR over talk therapy include its ability to quickly target the root cause of the trauma, its non-verbal nature, and its ability to help you gain insight into their thoughts and feelings in a safe environment. It's important to note that EMDR is just one of the tools that could be used to help reduce symptoms. It may be most effective in conjunction with other therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). You'll discuss the best treatment plan for your specific needs and goals with your counselor at your initial appointment.
Benefits of EMDR
There are many potential benefits to EMDR therapy, including:
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Improved ability to cope with and manage negative emotions and experiences
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Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression
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Improved self-esteem and self-confidence
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Improved ability to function in daily life
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Increased feelings of empowerment and control over one's life
EMDR What to Expect
Considering EMDR therapy, knowing what to expect from the process is essential. During each session, you will share and think about a specific event and express any thoughts or feelings that arise. Your counselor will provide guidance and support through any difficult emotions during the session. EMDR consists of 8 phases: history taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and re-evaluation. Each stage has its purpose in helping you to process your traumatic memories healthily. When you go through the phases with a trained counselor, you can gain insight into your emotions and develop healthier coping strategies for future situations. Contact Chapters Counseling in Mt Pleasant to see if EMDR suits you.
