Before we talk about what an EMDR session is, let’s talk about what it isn’t. EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is unlike traditional talk therapy where you and your therapist discuss the issues or problems you may be having. As a matter of fact, your therapist will remain silent for a good part of the session. EMDR therapists use a specific structure that will guide you to focus on bringing attention to your emotions, your body, your thoughts, your beliefs, and your memories using visualization, mindfulness, free association, and most importantly, bilateral stimulation which is a unique element of EMDR. This is a process by which you follow a hand or light movement with your eyes, listen to alternating sounds through headphones, hold objects that will create a sensation in your hands, or receive gentle physical taps. This type of movement stimulates the brain’s information processing system allowing you to draw on a combination of new insights and understanding. OK, so enough of the scientific talk. Here is what you will experience…. Most memories come in the form of snapshot images that usually represent the worst parts of an event. You and your therapist will identify some of… Read more »
Tag: Therapist
How to Break the News When Your Child Needs Psychotherapy
So, you’ve realized your child is in need of outside help and you’ve decided to incorporate the help of a therapist. Before we talk about how to break the news, let’s make sure that you have chosen the right therapist for the situation. The therapist should have an expertise in working with children as well as the issue your child is experiencing. The therapist should be licensed in the state where they are practicing and their license should be in good standing. To get this information, ask the therapist for the type of license he or she holds, go to that web site and enter the therapist’s name. Let’s face it, only a select few of us graduate at the top of our class but we all get the same license to practice! Lastly, although it is ultimately up to your child, make sure you are comfortable with the therapist you choose. Assuming your child has never seen a therapist, how you share the news will set the tone and is essential to the overall positive experience. So, let’s begin: WAIT FOR THE RIGHT MOMENT: As with any important conversation, timing is everything. Don’t share the news after an argument… Read more »