Last week, Dr. Francine Shapiro, who is pictured here and regarded as the founder of EMDR, talked with NY Times readers about where EMDR stands as a form of therapy.

In her blog post, The Evidence on E.M.D.R, Dr. Shapiro answers questions about EMDR’s evidence, research, and effectiveness. The discussion goes into specific detail about studies related to the therapy’s effectiveness, especially for those with post traumatic stress disorder.

After training with Dr. Shapiro in the 1990s, I began using EMDR in my own practice. Often, I use EMDR therapy on patients who want brief therapy with high outcomes, especially those suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In fact, EMDR is the most effective and rapid method for PTSD healing as shown by extensive scientific research studies. Although it is not yet understood exactly why or how EMDR works, its effectiveness emerges consistently from controlled studies. Brain scan research suggests the amygdala and hippocampus are stimulated by the EMDR. process. These areas of the brain are instrumental in resolving traumatic memory.

After working with EMDR for more than a decade, I often use the therapy to effectively treat patients with other conditions:

• Loss of loved ones
• Loss of confidence
• Post traumatic stress
• Addictions
• Fibromyalgia
• Obsessive thoughts
• Creative blocks
• Sexual or other types of abuse

You can learn more about EMDR here, the EMDR Institute, or on Innovative Counseling Services’ web site. Contact me today to learn more about how EMDR can enhance your life!