Shelley Cordes Counseling, Inc

EMDR

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a form of psychotherapy that helps people process and heal from traumatic or disturbing experiences. 

How EMDR Works: 

• During EMDR therapy, the patient focuses on a specific traumatic memory while simultaneously performing eye movements, such as following the therapist’s finger or listening to alternating tones. 

These eye movements are believed to help the brain process and integrate the traumatic memory, reducing its emotional impact.  The therapist also guides the patient through a series of steps to help them understand and cope with the memory, as well as develop positive beliefs and coping mechanisms. 

Benefits of EMDR: 

• Effective for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Can help reduce symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety
• May improve overall well-being and emotional functioning 

Who Can Benefit from EMDR: 

• Individuals who have experienced traumatic events, such as abuse, neglect, or natural disasters 

People with PTSD or other anxiety disorders  Individuals who want to improve their coping mechanisms and emotional regulation 

Lifespan Integration Therapy

Lifespan Integration (LI) therapy is a form of evidence based psychotherapy that focuses on integrating and healing past trauma. It aims to help individuals resolve unresolved conflicts, improve emotional regulation, and build a stronger sense of self. 

Key Principles of LI Therapy:

• Early Childhood Experiences: .

LI therapy recognizes the importance of early childhood attachments and experiences in shaping an individual’s emotional and neurological development. 

Trauma Integration: . The therapy focuses on identifying and processing traumatic events that may have been stored in the body and mind. 

Body-Mind Connection: . LI therapy emphasizes the interconnectedness of mind and body. It uses somatic techniques, such as mindfulness and movement, to help individuals access and heal their stored traumas. 

Part Integration: . The therapy views individuals as having different parts or aspects of themselves that may be in conflict or disconnected. LI aims to integrate these parts and create a more cohesive sense of self. 

Benefits of LI Therapy:

Reduced anxiety and depression, Improved emotional regulation, Enhanced self-esteem and confidence, Stronger relationships, and Increased resilience to stress. 

Who Can Benefit from LI Therapy:

Individuals who may benefit from LI therapy include those who have experienced: Early childhood trauma or neglect, Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Difficulty regulating emotions, and Relationship issues stemming from past experiences. 

How LI Therapy Works:

LI therapy typically involves a series of sessions with a trained therapist. The therapist will work with the client to: Identify and explore early childhood experiences, Process and integrate traumatic memories, Develop coping mechanisms for managing difficult emotions, Integrate different parts of the self, and Improve body-mind awareness.