What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a well researched, evidence-based therapeutic treatment modality for trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. EMDR uses an 8-phase approach that includes history taking, resource and skill building, assessment, desensitization, installation of positive beliefs, body scan, closure, and re-evaluation. Some of these phases include dual attention stimulation (DAS) through bilateral eye movements, tactile or auditory stimulation. EMDR is also used to support individuals in pregnancy, postpartum and beyond to process birth trauma, miscarriage, infant loss, NICU experiences, difficult pregnancy, fears, past traumas and more.  EMDR targets past experiences, current triggers and future potential challenges to helps alleviate symptoms through adaptive memory processing and integration.

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What symptoms may be addressed with EMDR?

• Difficulty bonding to your baby/attachment challenges

• Feeling disconnected to others

• Sleep disturbances or nightmares

• Intrusive thoughts or flash backs

• Hypervigilance, being easily startled

• Not able to remember parts of a traumatic event

• Avoiding baby or partner, or things that remind you of a traumatic event

• Being triggered by others’ pregnancies, birth, or children

• Struggling to enjoy parenting

• Low mood, depression

• Anxious thoughts or physical symptoms of anxiety

• Intense shame or guilt

• Anger, rage or irritability

• Apathy or numbness

• Fear of an upcoming pregnancy, birth, medical procedure/appointment

• Trouble with negative beliefs about yourself i.e. I am worthless, I am a bad mom/parent, I am helpless, I’m not good enough.

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