Integrative Counseling Works, LLC
Trauma Focused Therapy
(she, her)
EMDR, Deep Brain Reorienting, Accelerated Resolution Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR therapy, developed in 1987, is an integrative and experiential psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR therapy incorporates bilateral stimulation into a comprehensive approach that processes and releases information trapped in the mind and body, freeing people from disturbing images and body sensations, debilitating emotions, and restrictive beliefs. EMDR works by desensitizing the emotional charge associated with traumatic events while also reprocessing those memories to integrate them into a healthier narrative and self-belief.
In addition to treating PTSD, single incident and complex trauma, therapists have also had success treating panic attacks, complicated grief, disturbing memories, phobias, performance anxiety, addictions, sexual and/or physical abuse. Its flexibility makes it suitable for clients dealing with multiple issues or those who require a more dynamic approach from the clinician.
Length of time in EMDR treatment varies and is dependent on the complexity of the issue.
Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR)
Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR) is a gentle, neuroscience-informed trauma therapy that works with the brainstem and midbrain—the regions responsible for our earliest, automatic survival responses (such as "orienting" to a threat and experiencing immediate physiological shock).
Developed by psychiatrist Dr. Frank Corrigan, DBR starts with the brainstem (the superior colliculi) —where shock, threat, and attachment stress are first registered before conscious thoughts or emotions take over.
By orienting to the tension in the forehead, around the eyes or at the base of the neck and then following and processing somatic shock sensations, DBR helps process unresolved shock responses in the body. This allows your nervous system to release long-held distress safely, without requiring you to retell traumatic stories or relive painful events.
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), developed in 2008 and also researched and evidence-based, is a form of brief psychotherapy which works to reprogram the way distressing memories and images are stored in the brain so they no longer trigger strong physical and/or emotional reactions. ART, which also utilizes bilateral stimulation primarily through eye movements, replaces distressing images with positive ones, helping clients to process and transform their traumatic memories.
ART has been shown to achieve benefits in fewer sessions than other modalities, often within 1-5 sessions. ART may be the better choice in cases when time is limited.
EMDR, ART and Deep Brain Reorienting Intensive Treatment
Intensive therapy treatment utilizing EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy or DBR is also offered in 1.5 to 3 hour increments.
Intensives offer a concentrated form of therapy designed to facilitate quicker healing from trauma and other mental health issues compared to traditional weekly sessions. These intensive sessions allow clients to engage more deeply with the therapeutic process, often leading to significant progress in a shorter timeframe. By focusing on the reprocessing of traumatic memories, EMDR or ART intensives can help individuals achieve relief and resolution more rapidly, making it an appealing option for those seeking effective, fast-acting support.
Please inquire for additional information.