In 1987, Francine Shapiro, the creator of Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), was walking in the park when she realized that bilateral eye movements appeared to decrease the intensity and quality of negative emotions associated with distressing memories. Since then it has been well researched as an extensive trauma treatment modality.

EMDR is a detailed and protocoled procedure that assists with memory reconsolidation of traumatic experiences by recalling the memory from long term storage, reprocessing, and re-storing in an updated form. EMDR uses the premise that psychological wounds can heal like physical wounds. Using bilateral stimulation, EMDR works to remove the impacts of traumatic memories that impede psychological healing just like you would remove debris that impedes a physical wound from closing. Through this process, associations are formed between the traumatic memory and more adaptive memories which result in new learning, reduced emotional distress, and development of new insights.

Bilateral stimulation can be used in the form of bilateral eye movements, bilateral tapping, or bilateral sounds. Through our work together we may decide which format works best for you.