EMDR
EMDR is a “structured” psychotherapeutic method, i.e. it follows a protocol in a highly rigid way compared to what could be a classic Gestaltic interview. It is used for the treatment of traumatic events and therefore their processing, but also for more daily and equally stressful experiences.
We define briefly what a trauma is, so you can better understand what it is and what it is not.Trauma is something that breaks the usual way of living and seeing the way. Clearly the impact is negative and the mind, and as if it were stuck, cannot move forward, just think and rethink about the event.
This definition comprises two main types of trauma, so called small “t” traumas and traumas of capital “T” identity. The first “t” corresponds to subjectively disturbing events that are characterized by a perception of danger not particularly understood. The second “t” are all those events that lead to death or threaten the physical integrity of oneself or others.
The use of EMDR is suitable for the treatment of children exposed to traumatic events. It is no less suitable for adults and adolescents. In particular we see it suitable for someone who:
- Has suffered small and large traumas in the age of development;
- Experienced common stressful experiences;
- has survived or witnessed extreme traumatic events;
- has worked closely with danger and death.
EMDR works by reducing the vividness of traumatic memories. Blurring the intensity of the memory leads to a positive sensation compared to the memory itself and at home to a more positive emotional activation.