Trauma, PTSD, & Loss
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a psychotherapy that allows people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. The clinical use of EMDR therapy can provide people with the benefits of psychotherapy that once took years to make a difference.
EMDR therapy demonstrates that the mind can heal from psychological trauma much like the body recovers from physical trauma. The brain’s information processing system naturally moves toward a state of equilibrium, much like the body heals itself. If the “healthy” mind is blocked by the impact of a disturbing event, the emotional wound prevents itself from healing and can cause intense suffering. The block will need to be removed in order for healing to take place. Through this process Clinicians help clients locate the block and reestablish a state of equilibrium.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT is an approach used in therapy that emphasizes the idea that suffering comes not from feeling emotional pain, but from our attempts to avoid that pain. ACT is commonly used to treat PTSD and other mental health disorders.
The overall goal of ACT is to help find a balance of being open and willing to experience feelings while focusing attention, not on trying to escape or avoid pain. When this balance is achieved, clients can move towards living a fulfilled and meaningful life.