Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing in New York, NY
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured psychotherapy approach designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. Developed by psychologist Francine Shapiro in 1987, EMDR has been extensively researched and is recognized as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions.
At Park Psychological Services in New York, NY, we understand how deeply past trauma can affect your daily life—sometimes in ways you might not even realize. Whether you’re struggling with lingering anxiety, intrusive memories, or a constant feeling of being “on edge,” you deserve a path toward lasting relief. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a proven, evidence-based therapy that helps you process and release the emotional weight of trauma without having to relive it in detail. Our skilled therapists provide EMDR in a safe, supportive environment, so you can heal at your own pace. You’ve already carried this burden long enough; we’re here to help you move forward.
How EMDR Works
EMDR therapy involves an eight-phase treatment process:
- History Taking: The therapist gathers a comprehensive background to identify traumatic experiences and establish treatment goals.
- Preparation: Clients are educated about the EMDR process and taught coping strategies to manage emotional distress.
- Assessment: Specific traumatic memories are targeted, and associated negative beliefs and emotions are identified.
- Desensitization: Clients focus on traumatic memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, to reduce the emotional impact.
- Installation: Positive beliefs are reinforced to replace negative ones associated with the trauma.
- Body Scan: Clients observe physical sensations to identify and address any residual tension related to the trauma.
- Closure: Each session concludes with techniques to ensure emotional stability.
- Reevaluation: Progress is reviewed, and additional targets are identified as necessary.
The bilateral stimulation used in EMDR, typically through guided eye movements, is believed to facilitate the brain’s natural processing mechanisms, enabling clients to reprocess traumatic information until it is no longer psychologically disruptive.
Applications of EMDR
While EMDR is best known for treating PTSD, it has also been applied to:
- Anxiety Disorders: Reducing symptoms by processing underlying traumatic experiences.
- Depression: Addressing traumatic memories that contribute to depressive symptoms.
- Phobias: Alleviating irrational fears linked to past events.
- Panic Disorders: Processing triggers that lead to panic attacks.
Benefits of EMDR
Research indicates that EMDR can lead to significant reductions in the symptoms of PTSD and other trauma-related conditions. Clients often experience relief from distressing memories, decreased emotional reactivity, and improved self-esteem. Notably, EMDR does not require clients to discuss traumatic events in detail, which can be particularly beneficial for those who find it difficult to verbalize their experiences.
By facilitating the reprocessing of traumatic memories, EMDR empowers individuals to heal from past experiences and regain control over their lives.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
You don’t have to let the past control your present. At Park Psychological Services in New York, we specialize in EMDR therapy to help you break free from the grip of trauma, reclaim your sense of safety, and rediscover the life you deserve. Whether you’ve experienced a single traumatic event or years of ongoing stress, our compassionate, highly trained therapists are ready to guide you toward emotional healing. We offer flexible scheduling so therapy can fit into your life—not the other way around. Don’t wait another day to start your recovery. Call us at (917) 473-1423 or request your appointment online, and take the first step toward lasting peace and resilience.