Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy in Oklahoma
At Cedar Tree Counseling of Oklahoma, we proudly offer Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy as part of our comprehensive counseling services. With locations in Tulsa, Jenks, Owasso, Glenpool, and Broken Arrow, our integrative approach combines elements from various highly effective therapies within structured protocols, aimed at maximizing treatment outcomes. EMDR therapy encompasses psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, experiential, and body-centered modalities, making it a powerful and enduring therapeutic tool.
Extensive research has demonstrated the effectiveness of EMDR therapy in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Our experienced clinicians have also reported positive outcomes when utilizing EMDR counseling for a wide range of conditions, including phobias, panic attacks, drug and alcohol addiction, stress reduction, dissociative disorders, complicated grief, disturbing memories, sexual and/or physical abuse, and anxiety disorders.
When individuals experience intense emotional distress, their brain’s ability to process information becomes impaired. Traumatic events can become “frozen in time,” and recalling them may evoke the same intensity of emotions as the initial experience. The images, sounds, smells, and feelings associated with the trauma remain unchanged, leaving a lasting negative impact on an individual’s perception of the world and their relationships. EMDR therapy directly influences the functioning of the brain, facilitating the restoration of normal information processing. Following successful EMDR therapy sessions, the distressing images, sounds, and feelings are no longer relived when the event is brought to mind. While the person still retains the memory of what transpired, the emotional upset associated with it diminishes. EMDR therapy is considered a neurologically based approach that resembles the natural processes occurring during dreaming or rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. By engaging in EMDR, individuals can develop a new and less distressing perspective when confronting disturbing material, fostering healing and growth.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy can be a transformative experience for individuals struggling with negative/ distressing thoughts, feelings, or behaviors. EMDR can be an effective tool to help restructure these and create new, positive neural pathway. By engaging the brain’s natural healing mechanisms, EMDR facilitates the integration of positive and adaptive thoughts, allowing individuals to release the emotional weight attached to their negative thinking. Over time, this therapeutic technique empowers individuals to reframe their perception, cultivate resilience, and foster a more optimistic and constructive mindset.
A neural pathway refers to the route that information takes in the brain, consisting of interconnected neurons that communicate through electrical and chemical signals. These pathways form the complex network responsible for transmitting and processing information throughout the brain. They enable the flow of signals associated with thoughts, sensations, emotions, and behaviors, allowing different regions of the brain to communicate and work together. Neural pathways are essential for various cognitive functions, learning, memory formation, and the coordination of bodily movements. With repeated use, neural pathways can become strengthened and more efficient, facilitating the formation of habits, skills, and patterns of thinking.
What is EMDR Treatment Like?
At Cedar Tree Counseling of Oklahoma, we begin every EMDR journey by collaboratively developing the necessary resources, including skills, tools, strategies, and social connections, to support your healing process. We guide our clients through a unique combination of guided imagery, parts work, and sematic therapy to facilitate the cultivation of these resources.
Once we have established a strong foundation of resources, we work together to create a personalized treatment plan. This plan identifies specific target memories, anxieties, and negative self-beliefs that are integral to your healing journey. To address these targets, we employ a fundamental component of EMDR therapy known as Bilateral Stimulation (BLS).
Bilateral Stimulation fosters improved communication between both hemispheres of your brain. By engaging both the Right Brain, which holds intense emotions, imagery, and creativity, and the Left Brain, responsible for processing narratives and our logical/reasonable self, we can effectively process the target memories and work towards resolution. Through this integrated approach, we aim to promote a comprehensive healing experience.
Contact an EMDR Therapist near me in Oklahoma
Ready to embark on your healing journey? Take the first step towards emotional well-being and personal growth by scheduling an appointment with Cedar Tree Counseling of Oklahoma today. Our experienced therapists are trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a powerful approach that can help you overcome the lingering effects of trauma and various other challenging conditions. Through a comprehensive and integrative counseling approach, we will guide you towards developing the necessary resources and utilizing the transformative potential of EMDR therapy. Don’t let past experiences hold you back any longer. Contact us now to schedule your appointment and begin your path towards healing and a brighter future.