Attia Counselling
In Person & Virtual Therapy
About
Erica Attia
Over the past 6 years I have worked with those in our community who have experienced complex trauma. I am skilled in multiple therapeutic interventions including solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, somatic therapy and EMDR.
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In addition to my expertise in talk therapy, I have a background in behavioural neuroscience. This makes working with me unique because I am passionate about brain science and how I can use it to help my clients within the therapy room.
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Find me on Psychology Today
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01.
1:1 therapy
(children, youth, adults)
Collaboratively, I work with you to develop new insights, strategies and tools to create the change you desire
02.
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy.
(children, youth, and adults)
EMDR is an evidence based intervention that helps to re-set the nervous system using bi-lateral stimulation.
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Research suggests EMDR as a highly effective treatment for a variety of concerns including but not limited to trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression.
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03.
In a adult small group setting (max of 6 participants) we build connection, learn with and alongside each other.
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Groups are currently waitlisted. Upcoming times/dates will be posted.
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If there are specific groups of interest to you, let me now using the "contact me" button.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an intervention that has gained significant recognition for its effectiveness in treating trauma and other psychological issues.
Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has helped individuals find relief from distressing memories and symptoms.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into what EMDR is, how it works, and the various issues it can help address.
What is EMDR?
EMDR is a therapeutic approach designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic or negative memories. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR focuses on the brain's natural healing processes, using bilateral stimulation (eye movements, sound, or tactile stimulation) to help individuals process and integrate distressing experiences.
How Does EMDR Work?
EMDR therapy is based on the idea that memories can get "stuck" in the brain, preventing proper processing and integration. This can lead to persistent psychological distress and symptoms like anxiety, flashbacks, and nightmares.
EMDR helps reprocess these memories so they can be integrated into the person's normal memory network.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can typically expect during EMDR therapy:
1. History and Treatment Planning
The therapist will conduct a history-taking session to understand your background and identify what you would like to address in therapy.
2. Preparation
The therapist will explain the EMDR process ensuring you understand what to expect. Relaxation techniques and coping strategies are also taught to help manage any distress that may arise.
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3. Assessment
We will discuss specific memories to target. You will be asked to focus on a vivid image related to the memory, a negative belief that may be connected to the memory, and associated emotions and physical sensations.
4. Desensitization
You will be asked to focus on the targeted memory and bilateral stimulation will begin. This process is repeated until the memory becomes less distressing.
5. Installation
The therapist will guide you in replacing the negative belief associated with the targeted memory with a positive belief. Bilateral stimulation is used again to strengthen this positive belief.
6. Body Scan
You will be asked to focus on any residual physical sensations related to the traumatic memory. If any distress remains, it is targeted with more bilateral stimulation until neutralized.
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7. Closure
The therapist will ensure you feel stable and safe before ending the session.
8. Reevaluation
In subsequent sessions, the therapist will evaluate the progress made and identify any new targets for processing.
What Can EMDR Help With?
EMDR is best known for its effectiveness in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but its applications extend beyond trauma. Here are some of the issues EMDR can help with:
1. PTSD and Trauma
EMDR is highly effective in reducing the symptoms of PTSD, including flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety triggered by traumatic memories.
2. Anxiety and Panic Disorders
EMDR can help individuals manage and reduce generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and panic attacks by addressing the root causes of their anxiety.
3. Depression
By processing distressing memories and negative beliefs, EMDR can help alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall mood.
4. Phobias
EMDR can be used to reduce the intensity of phobias by targeting the underlying traumatic or distressing experiences that contribute to the fear.
5. Addictions
EMDR can address the traumatic experiences and emotional pain that often underlie addictive behaviours, aiding in addiction recovery.
6. Chronic Pain
Some chronic pain conditions have psychological components. EMDR can help by addressing the emotional distress and trauma associated with chronic pain.
7. Performance Anxiety
Whether it’s in sports, public speaking, or other areas, EMDR can help individuals overcome performance anxiety by reprocessing the fears and negative beliefs that hinder their performance.
Conclusion
EMDR is an intervention that leverages the brain's natural healing processes to help individuals process and integrate distressing memories.
Its approach and use of bilateral stimulation makes it distinct from traditional talk therapy. EMDR has been proven effective for a wide range of psychological issues, from PTSD and anxiety to phobias and chronic pain.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or other distressing experiences, EMDR may offer the relief and healing needed to move forward.
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