EMDR Therapy in Akron Ohio

EMDR – Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

EMDR is an evidence-based psychotherapy approach highly effective for trauma and PTSD. Kevin Becnel, LPCC has used EMDR for over 20 years as part of a holistic approach that also incorporates somatic and mindfulness methods.

Ideal for those who have been unable to forget traumatic life events.

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) notes that EMDR is effective for treating symptoms of acute and chronic PTSD. According to the APA, the model may be useful for people who have trouble talking about the traumatic events they’ve experienced.

Additionally, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense have jointly issued clinical practice guidelines. These guidelines “strongly recommended” EMDR for the treatment of PTSD in both military and non-military populations.

Do you have questions about EMDR?

What is EMDR psychotherapy?

EMDR is a structured therapy that helps the brain reprocess painful memories so they stop feeling like they are happening now. While you briefly focus on a difficult memory, you follow guided bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping. Over time the memory loses its emotional charge. The World Health Organization and major clinical guidelines recommend EMDR for PTSD. To learn more, click on the link below.

How does EMDR work?

EMDR actively employs bilateral stimulation across the brain’s right and left hemispheres. Therapists deliver this stimulation through diverse methods, such as guided eye movements, alternating auditory tones, or rhythmic tactile tapping.

Moreover, this bilateral stimulation effectively facilitates the brain’s reprocessing of memories trapped in an emotionally distressed state. Consequently, the brain accelerates information processing and actively creates new, healthier associations between the traumatic memory and more adaptive ones.

As a result, patients continue to recall the targeted event as negative, yet they now confidently recognize their own safety and strength in handling those memories. Additionally, current reminders of the event no longer provoke intense distress reactions. Therefore, patients cultivate a significantly more positive self-view, for example, embracing empowering beliefs like “I can be safe,” “I have worth,” or “I am not defective.”

To learn more, visit EMDRIA, the website for the EMDR International Association.

Can you combinde EMDR with somatic psychotherapy?

The Short answer is Yes. EMDR works on the memory. Somatic therapy works on how your body holds it. Together they address both, which often helps people who have talked about their experiences for years and still feel stuck.

Who Can Benefit from EMDR?

Adults living with trauma or PTSD
People with anxiety, panic, or a constantly “on edge” nervous system.
Anyone whose past still shows up in their body, relationships, or sleep.

How long does it take to see results?

The timeline for seeing results varies for each individual. Some may notice changes after a few sessions, while others may require a longer commitment to fully experience the benefits.