Adverse experiences are an inevitable part of life. How we respond to and cope with these experiences is different for everyone and depends on a variety of factors. Sometimes these experiences overwhelm our capacity to cope, and we are left with a wave of emotional distress that interferes with our sense of self and overall well-being. When this occurs, we experience what is known as trauma. 

 

Trauma comes in many different shapes and sizes – from single, isolated events to ongoing, prolonged experiences. How a person experiences and responds to trauma is very subjective and it’s important to know there is no right or wrong way. Remember, your responses are normal reactions to abnormal events.   

 

Trauma can include, but is not limited to: 

 

• A serious car accident 

• The unexpected death of a loved one

• Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse

• Neglect 

• Bullying

• Harassment 

• Domestic or family violence

• Life-threatening illness 

 

Healing from trauma is possible. Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy– or EMDR for short – is a trauma-informed, evidence-based model that uses bilateral stimulation to help the brain and body reprocess trauma. Our minds and bodies are inherently designed to process, store, and learn from our experiences. However, sometimes trauma interferes with this process and the experience(s) becomes “stuck” in our system. This can manifest in different ways, like avoidance of getting into a car following a car accident. It’s as if the past is still the present. 

 

EMDR is recognized as an effective treatment by several leading national and international organizations. To learn more about EMDR, visit EMDRIA’s website here and watch the video below. If you are interested in this type of therapy or have questions, please contact our office. 

 

Sarah Feeney, Clinician with Lighthouse Counseling, is a certified EMDR therapist and has several years’ experience working with trauma.