Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a comprehensive and holistic technique that incorporates eye movements, CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and body awareness to help individuals overcome a myriad of emotional barriers. It was originally employed to help people with a history of trauma and a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder. However, over the years, it is increasingly integrated into treatment for other conditions like eating disorders, substance misuse, grief, anxiety, stress, phobias and more.
How does EMDR therapy work?
EMDR therapy is a specialized treatment facilitated by a certified and licensed therapist. To understand how EMDR therapy works it helps to understand a piece of how memory is processed in your brain. Memories have logical and emotional elements that impact our association with events, with the emotional aspect often overpowering the physical details. For example, we may not remember the details of a fight we had with a loved one, but we usually remember exactly how we felt at the time. We may also find that recalling particularly painful memories can elicit a similar intensity of feeling as when we first experienced them. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements) to help desensitize or reduce the emotional intensity of an individual’s memory. This then clears a pathway for that individual to form new adaptive associations with the event and move ahead in life with a greater sense of safety and clarity.
Why does EMDR work?
- The bilateral eye movement facilitates proper communication between your brain’s left and right hemispheres. This communication helps individuals integrate the reality of their present safety into the recollection of the past event.
- It stimulates the thalamocortical connection to improve processing throughout the brain.
- The reoriented response draws a new reaction to the traumatic reflex to new stimuli. It allows the brain to perceive and process the new information, integrate it with the maladaptive neural network, and change the emotion-laden memories.
How much does EMDR therapy in NYC cost?
Usually, EMDR therapy in NYC depends on the number of sessions needed. On average, a session costs $100-$250 per hour and lasts for at least two hours. Some insurance companies cover the cost of EMDR, however due to the length of EMDR sessions, it is important to clarify whether your insurance covers longer sessions. Regardless, research shows that EMDR therapy is currently the most effective and affordable solution for PTSD and trauma patients.
Don’t let your past hold you down. At Integrative Therapy, we can help you find a better way forward.
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