EMDR Therapy in the Twin Cities, MN, Area
Trauma results from experiencing or witnessing a distressing event, which can have a long-term impact on emotional, psychological, and physical health. But recovery is possible with EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) therapy, a powerful, evidence-based therapeutic modality used for treating and managing symptoms of trauma. Twin Cities Mental Health & Couples Center offers EMDR therapy in the Twin Cities, Minnesota, region. We are dedicated to creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment to support individuals as they navigate and heal from traumatic experiences.
Causes of Trauma
Memories of traumatic events can become “frozen” and inhibit one’s ability to process their experiences. Specific images, smells, sights, sounds, and feelings associated with the event may also trigger intense emotions in the present. These recurring activations of the nervous system can negatively impact daily functioning and interfere with how a person sees themselves, the world, and others. Causes of trauma may include the following:
- Childhood or current sexual, physical, emotional, or verbal abuse
- Violent attacks (experienced or witnessed)
- Car accidents
- Grief and loss
- Life-threatening medical diagnoses or procedures
- Natural disasters
- Domestic violence
- Bullying, neglect, or rejection
- Infidelity and betrayal
- Animal attacks
To address these unique challenges, EMDR focuses on the body’s response rather than verbal recounting of the event, which is beneficial for clients who feel overwhelmed by talking about their trauma.
What Is EMDR?
EMDR was developed by Francine Shapiro, and this therapeutic method does not involve the use of drugs or hypnosis. EMDR is a simple, collaborative, non-invasive approach that effectively facilitates healing. By recalling thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and bodily sensations felt during the event, the individual is able to process their trauma in a controlled environment and reduce the emotional and psychological impact of their memories. Therapists can adapt EMDR to each client’s needs, making it suitable for both adults and children.
How EMDR Addresses Trauma
A key element of EMDR is dual stimulation. During treatment, a therapist prompts the client to recall memories, triggers, or painful emotions as they simultaneously focus on bilateral stimulation. Dual stimulations appear to relieve the anxiety associated with trauma, allowing the client to examine the original event from a more detached perspective, somewhat like watching a movie. This lets the therapist guide the client to reframe their trauma in helpful ways (reprocessing) and release the body’s stored negative emotional charges (desensitization).
Bilateral Stimulation Methods
Bilateral stimulation activates the brain’s ability to process and resolve traumatic memories. This process engages both hemispheres of the brain, encouraging emotional balance. Some exercises may involve:
Eye Movements
Bilateral eye movements mimic the brain’s natural healing processes during sleep and help the client focus without overwhelming them with verbal recounting of the traumatic event. This method engages the individual by having them track the therapist’s moving finger, a light, or another visual cue.
Auditory Stimulation
This approach has a meditative effect. By listening to alternating chimes or tones through headphones, individuals remain grounded through sound, allowing deep emotional processing without visual input.
Tactile Stimulation
Tactile stimulation involves holding pulsers or buzzers that emit gentle vibrations in each hand. This is a good choice for clients sensitive to visual or auditory input, as it physically grounds the body, helping to anchor the client in the present during emotional processing.
Helping You Find a Brighter Tomorrow
EMDR requires specialized training, and the compassionate EMDR therapists at Twin Cities Mental Health & Couples Center have extensive experience in this modality. We would be honored to support you on your path to healing and recovery with EMDR therapy in the Twin Cities, MN, region. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn about our telehealth services.