EMDR facilitates healing in a way that talk therapy alone can not. Laurel Parnell, Ph.D explains that "trauma memory is stored differently than ordinary memory-in the right hemisphere in fragmented, unintegrated form, separate from the brain's language center-which explains why traditional talk therapy is inevitably limited and inadequate to effectively resolve trauma." EMDR addresses thoughts, feelings, and body sensations by using a specific verbal protocol and bi-lateral stimulation. I have found that once the traumatic experience is integrated in the mind and body, healing takes place on a lasting level. Prior to incorporating EMDR into my practice my clients and I were often frustrated that insight into the origins of dysfunctional behavior did not always lead to change. Paralyzing feelings of guilt and shame were difficult to ease. EMDR seems to facilitate healing in a way that is natural to mind, body and spirit. When people come to accept themselves and come to terms with the traumatic event or events, they are no longer burdened by guilt or shame. When people feel better about themselves they give up behaviors that are no longer working for them, and they become empowered to make positive choices in their lives.

I have used EMDR successfully to treat simple phobias like aversion to bugs and public speaking. I have also used EMDR to treat unresolved anger, grief and childhood abuse and neglect. When we have a big upset in the present, it is often about something painful that is unresolved from the past. EMDR is a wonderful tool to uncover and heal the old wound. I also use EMDR combined with hypnosis to enhance creative performance.

For additional information on EMDR please visit www.EMDRIA.org.