Applying Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy in Las Vegas, NV

At EVOLVING REFLECTIONS COUNSELING CENTER, we apply a non-invasive method of psychotherapy to treat people who experience mental health issues. We assure you that our EMDR therapy in Las Vegas, NV, is effective in healing.

What Is EMDR?

EMDR is an evidence-based psychotherapy method that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional suffering that result from distressing experiences. Repeated studies show that EMDR therapy makes a positive difference in the brain and memory.

This eight-phase trauma treatment comprehensively identifies and addresses experiences that have overwhelmed the brain’s natural resilience or coping capacity, thereby generating traumatic symptoms or harmful coping strategies. Through this therapy, patients can reprocess traumatic information until it is not psychologically disruptive anymore.

Developed by Francine Shapiro, Ph.D., in the late 1980s, EMDR was initially used as an effective therapy to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Clinical research has validated that EMDR is applicable for a wide range of mental problems that result from overwhelming past situations.

Challenges Which EMDR Therapy Addresses

Therapists use EMDR therapy for people of all ages who experience the following challenges:

Description of an EMDR Therapy Session

During a typical EMDR session, the therapist leads a patient in a series of lateral eye movements while the patient simultaneously focuses on various aspects of a troubling memory. The left-right eye movements are a form of “bilateral stimulation.” Therapists would also alternate bilateral sound using headphones and alternate tactile simulation using a handheld device that vibrates or taps to the back of the patient’s hands. If affective distress is relieved, negative beliefs are reformulated, and stress-related physiological arousal associated is reduced, the treatment is successful.

EMDR From a Doctor’s Perspective

“EMDR is one of the most powerful tools I’ve encountered for treating post-traumatic stress. In the hands of a competent and compassionate therapist, it gives people the means to heal themselves.”

– Steven Silver, Ph.D.
Former Director of the PTSD Unit
Veterans Administration Medical Center
Coatesville, PA

“We believe that EMDR induces a fundamental change in brain circuitry similar to what happens in REM sleep—that allows the person undergoing treatment to more effectively process and incorporate traumatic memories into general association networks in the brain. This helps the individual integrate and understand the memories within the larger context of his or her life experience.”

– Robert Stickgold, Ph.D.
Harvard Medical School
Boston, MA

If you would like to discuss what EMDR can do for you, please contact us.

Treating Trauma Patients with EMDR Therapy in Las Vegas

Trauma can have lasting effects on your mental and emotional well-being, and finding the right treatment is key to overcoming those challenges. At Evolving Reflections Counseling Center in Las Vegas, one of the most effective therapies we offer is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

EMDR in Las Vegas has become an essential tool for individuals seeking to process and heal from trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and other distressing experiences. This innovative therapy is supported by years of research and clinical success, making it an important part of the therapeutic services we provide.

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals process and heal from trauma and emotional distress by using a unique technique involving bilateral stimulation—usually through guided eye movements. Developed in the late 1980s by Francine Shapiro, EMDR aims to facilitate the brain’s natural healing processes, allowing clients to reprocess traumatic memories in a way that lessens their emotional charge.

The approach involves eight phases, each designed to help you process disturbing memories and feelings in a safe and structured manner. These phases include history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation. By following these steps, EMDR therapy helps individuals confront distressing memories without re-traumatizing them, making it a gentler form of trauma recovery compared to some other methods.

Why Choose EMDR Therapy?

At Evolving Reflections Counseling Center, we use EMDR therapy to help our clients recover from a wide range of emotional issues, including:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Whether you’ve experienced combat, sexual trauma, natural disasters, or accidents, EMDR can help reduce the intensity of PTSD symptoms.
Anxiety and Panic Disorders: EMDR can help individuals manage anxiety by reprocessing the memories and triggers that cause emotional distress.
Phobias and Fears: Whether it’s a fear of flying, heights, or specific social situations, EMDR helps reduce the power of phobias over time.
Grief and Loss: Losing a loved one can create complex emotional responses. EMDR assists in processing these feelings and finding peace.
Addiction and Substance Abuse: Past trauma often plays a role in addiction, and EMDR can help identify and address underlying trauma that contributes to destructive behaviors.
Chronic Pain and Illness: Emotional factors can exacerbate physical pain, and EMDR therapy can help individuals manage the emotional components that worsen chronic conditions.

The beauty of EMDR lies in its ability to address deep-seated issues in a relatively short amount of time, making it a highly efficient therapeutic option.

How Does EMDR Work?

The process of EMDR therapy focuses on the way distressing memories are stored in the brain. When someone experiences a traumatic event, the memory may become “stuck,” unable to be processed properly. This “stuck” memory can cause emotional, cognitive, and physical responses that interfere with everyday functioning.

During EMDR sessions, the therapist works with the client to target these memories. Bilateral stimulation—usually through guided eye movements—is used to stimulate both sides of the brain, which helps the brain process the memories in a way that allows for healing. The therapist will also encourage you to focus on the memory while staying present in the moment, providing a safe space to process the emotions associated with it.

Why Evolving Reflections Counseling Center?

At Evolving Reflections Counseling Center, we take a personalized approach to therapy, understanding that each person’s journey to healing is unique. Our therapists are trained in EMDR and other therapeutic modalities to provide a comprehensive and holistic healing experience. We ensure that every client receives the care and attention they need to overcome their struggles and build a better future.

Whether you’re dealing with trauma, anxiety, or any other emotional difficulty, our team is here to guide you on your path to recovery. Our compassionate therapists create a safe and welcoming environment, where you can begin the process of healing at your own pace.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

EMDR therapy in Las Vegas can be the breakthrough you need to overcome past trauma and move forward with your life. At Evolving Reflections Counseling Center, we offer this transformative therapy to help you regain your emotional balance and live a more fulfilling life. If you or a loved one is struggling with trauma or emotional distress, don’t wait any longer to seek help.