EMDR Therapy in Charlotte, NC

EMDR Trauma Therapy

I’m Carrie, an EMDR Therapist in Charlotte, NC.

You may be feeling anxious, on edge, and flooded with memories from your past

I’m here to help you stop reliving past painful memories and experience life in the present.

I help people heal from past trauma, get unstuck and let go of negative beliefs to live fulfilling lives. 

If you’re ready to let go of the past, schedule a complimentary consultation call with an experienced EMDR therapist  today.

My approach to EMDR Therapy

In a nutshell, EMDR Therapy helps our brain to process or digest information that’s very stressful and overwhelming so that we can think more rationally and fully integrate past experiences. 

Think about if you are looking at a computer and you open a bunch of new windows.  Eventually, if you open too many windows, the computer may freeze or crash.  When an individual is experiencing a lot of stress, it can be like opening all these windows and over time one may become overwhelmed by their emotions and even change their behavior.  EMDR therapy is about “closing out the window tabs” so your nervous system can relax!

Everybody’s brain processes trauma differently.  For example, if two people were in the same car accident, their brains might process that car accident very differently.  One person may not be able to drive afterwards, and someone else may be able to drive home that day without much additional stress. The same event can be traumatizing for one person and not for someone else.

It’s not right or wrong, but for some people the situation or traumatic event may be interpreted differently and need help to process it so that they do not continue to be impacted by the past event.  Our brains are very powerful and they do actually do have the ability to spontaneously and organically process the experience in a way that’s useful, we often just need a little bit of help which is what EMDR therapy will do.

 EMDR can help to calm down the nervous system and then can use other interventions to help create behavior changes as needed. I also integrate Internal Family Systems (IFS) or parts work into EMDR treatment for a holistic approach to treating trauma.

After successful EMDR therapy treatment, you will still remember what happened, yet you will not be overwhelmed with painful emotions or physical sensations when recalling memories of the traumatic experience.

EMDR THERAPY TO HEAL FROM TRAUMA

What is EMDR Therapy? 

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based practice used in psychotherapy to treat trauma and other distressing life experiences, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and phobias. EMDR helps facilitate the brain’s natural healing processes through bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping.

EMDR

 How does EMDR Therapy work?

 

During a traumatic or stressful event, the brain is unable to process information as it normally would. When overwhelmed, information can get “stuck” or stored in the brain in unhelpful ways, allowing past events to negatively affect you in the present.  The old information can be triggered in the present and can cause you to have flashbacks or be triggered by similar thoughts, feelings, or bodily sensations from when the trauma occurred.  This can impact the way a person views the world and how they relate with others.

EMDR therapy uses eye movements (similar to what occurs during REM sleep) to help facilitate information processing and reduce the effects of trauma and the underlying negative beliefs.

In addition to processing through a traumatic memory, EMDR therapy helps shift core negative beliefs to more neutral and even positive beliefs.⁣

We can often know something in our rational mind, yet not believe it in our body at the same time. Our unconscious beliefs are often driving our behavior. ⁣⁣⁣This is one of many reasons why somatic therapy that examines the connection between the body and mind, such as EMDR is so effective.

Learn more about EMDR therapy for PTSD in this article from Psych Central where Carrie is featured.

EMDR therapy in charlotte, nc

What issues does EMDR treat?

  • Childhood trauma

  • Sexual assault & sexual abuse

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Physical, Emotional & Sexual Abuse

  •  Relational wounds 

  • Panic Attacks

  • Flashbacks & Nightmares

  • Grief & Loss

  • Painful or Disturbing Memories

  • Self-esteem issues & negative core beliefs

Letting go does not mean forgetting, it just means we stop carrying the energy of the past into the present
–YUNG PUEBLO

EMDR Therapy Intensives

EMDR Intensives offer a more concentrated and immersive approach to unlocking transformative change. Our EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Intensives offer a unique and powerful way to address trauma, anxiety, and other challenges that may be hindering your well-being.

What are EMDR Intensives?

EMDR Intensives are extended therapy sessions designed to provide a deep and focused exploration into the healing potential of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. This evidence-based therapeutic approach has proven highly effective in treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and various other mental health concerns.

Why Choose EMDR Intensives?

1. Accelerated Healing: EMDR Intensives allow for a more concentrated and comprehensive therapeutic experience, accelerating the healing process compared to traditional therapy formats.

2. Customized Care: Our skilled and compassionate therapists tailor each intensive to meet your unique needs, ensuring a personalized and effective healing journey.

3. Deep Exploration: Dive into the core of your challenges with extended sessions that provide ample time for in-depth exploration and processing, fostering lasting change.

4. Focused Attention: Benefit from the undivided attention of our experienced therapists, fostering a deep sense of connection and trust throughout the intensive process.

What to Expect:

  1. Assessment and Planning: Before the intensive begins, we conduct a thorough assessment to understand your history, goals, and unique needs. Together, we create a customized plan for your EMDR Intensive.

  2. Extended Sessions: EMDR Intensives typically involve extended sessions, allowing for a more immersive and transformative therapeutic experience. Sessions range from extended 90 minute sessions to half-day (3 hour) or full day (6 hour sessions).

  3. Holistic Approach: Beyond EMDR, we may incorporate complementary therapeutic modalities to address your overall well-being, promoting a holistic and comprehensive approach to healing.

  4. Safe and Supportive Environment: Our team is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for your intensive journey. We prioritize your comfort and well-being throughout the process.

Is an EMDR Intensive Right for You?

EMDR Intensives are suitable for individuals seeking a more concentrated and focused approach to healing. If you are dealing with trauma, anxiety, or related challenges and are ready to commit to an immersive healing experience, our EMDR Intensives may be the transformative solution you’ve been looking for.

Note: EMDR therapy is a specialized form of treatment that may not be suitable for everyone. Book a consult call to determine the most appropriate therapeutic approach for your unique needs.

Intensives can be done online or in person in Charlotte, NC