APPROACHES
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy
EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a lengthy way of describing an evidence-based psychotherapy for treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It has also been used to treat anxiety and a myriad of other issues.
Created in 1987 by Dr. Francine Shapiro, this approach combines imagery, mindfulness and cognitive techniques in a structured treatment plan designed to meet each client’s particular needs. Its effectiveness has been extensively researched and documented, even as the understanding for exactly how it works is still not clear. It has been found to bring relief from even decades-old traumatic response patterns (maladaptive responses that are “triggered”).
Through EMDR, resolution of traumatic and disturbing life experiences is accomplished through a set of unique standardized procedures which incorporates alternating bilateral visual, auditory and/or tactile stimulation. This process activates the components of the memory of disturbing life events and facilitates adaptive information processing and integration.
I am trained in this method through the EMDR Center of the Rockies and, though this method is not for everyone, I have been amazed at how quickly and thoroughly it releases the grip of old traumas. Read more at the EMDRIA website, where I am also listed as a therapist.
Intro video to EMDR Therapy
Depth Psychology (Jungian)
Each person’s path is sacred and is laden with personal and universal symbols and meaning. A Jungian approach taps into those streams of significance to assist the client in gaining consciousness of their own internal “map” for healing.
Other Symbolic Approaches
Another way to work from a Depth Psychology perspective is to allow the images of dreams, sand, art, story and song to surface in the client’s life. These indicate, in a more intuitive fashion, a direction the Soul is seeking for the sake of healing and wholeness. The symbolic realm can often help one arrive at the next step sooner than if only words and talk were used.
Child and Adolescent Therapy
I work with children and youth using Enneagram and Child and Adolescent Play Therapy. EMDR can also be done with children using youth-friendly adaptations.
