#emdr intensive

[keepingthehopealive]

EMDR session #2. Taking what i sent to PT after the session.

ET-emdr therapist

PT-primary therapist

When I went in, ET asked how the last 3 weeks had been and I said "a shit show" which she laughed but then asked more about. I briefly touched on some medical stuff I'm dealing with and then some stuff with my animals stressing me out.

ET asked if we could talk more about the relationship with my mom since we started to touch on it last time. That relationship and dynamics was already really activated because of the session I had with PT a few days prior where it came up (+ an upcoming visit with mom). I said how the compassionate response in childhood probably would have been that my needs were different than my sisters versus the response and narrative I got of youre needy, dependent, too much and the accompanying shame. ET asked what it would have felt like to hear that as a child or even how it felt now to say and hear that. I said it felt like a vice around my body, restriction and tightness and the freeze.

I talked about how the self hatred really goes back to infancy. Not in a cognitive way, but that when I look at baby pictures of myself as a baby all I feel is disgust and judgement, mainly "I've always been ugly" and watching videos of myself as a young toddler/child (my mom videoed our childhood and then it was something we watched a lot too) how annoying I was, too much, how bad my anxiety was even at a really young age etc. I know these narratives come from my mom, she makes these comments constantly. Its sad and pathetic though. I think of the babies in the NICU or at work now, even the most difficult, exhausting toddlers, and can never fathom feeling this way about them, yet I cant disconnect these feelings when it comes to myself.

We talked about my therapy history with K, P, L and my current therapist PT and those relationships. ET was saying how I needed the relational and attachment work and how K ended up reinacting my mom. When I argued that I shouldn't need it now, and need to do it for myself, ET said the young wounded child part of me needs it and that the adult me wants to be able to do it for myself and by myself, like to find safety in my body and in myself versus through relationships and others, particularly in therapy. She asked about talking to that part directly, which was really challenging and she validated that most of me couldn't hear it because of the protective parts. ET said she isn't trying to get rid of those protective parts, just wants to work with them directly.

The biggest theme of the session was my disorganized attachment, starting with my mom. With the lens of parts work, she talked a lot about how strong my protective parts are, that im a "super well protected" system. Im able to conceptulize it, but the freeze, shame and other shields come up immediately when trying to feel it in my body or apply it to myself from an empathetic view. She talked about the shame as the "monster within". 

In terms of how I was in the appointment, it felt different than last time in that I was able to be a bit more open with what I was thinking and experiencing in response to her. She is heavy on psychoeducation, which is fine and I do appreciate and find interesting, but I was more open about what I was able to hear or accept and what I wasn't. I struggled more this appointment with talking and my voice and the freeze, in different ways than last time. At one point I was completely collapsed and curled up and was shame spiraling. ET had to go to the bathroom anyway so we used that as a break and it helped in that I was able to uncurl a bit once I was alone for a minute. 

ET does a lot of bringing attention to my body and how im experiencing things, which is newer for me in therapy and is where I really struggle, dropping out of the cognitive intellectualizing and into my body and somatic experience of things.

If we view it from this lens then I think the struggle with the fact that not only do ET and PT see the child part that's struggling but theyre compassionate towards it and trying to work with it, when Im only working against it. thats what I've been told and taught to do from the time I was that child. So it makes sense that I feel like PT treats me like a child or as weak because they are seeing and working with a different part of me.

Its hard enough to intelluctalize it this way, but when I try to experience and feel it somatically, its impossible. ET would talk about ways that doing EMDR can help get there, which was triggering a lot of shame in the moment of how Im not even able to try it or do it, because all we did was talk and I could answer questions and intelluctually talk about things, but when it came to doing anything physical or active, i tried a few times but could not do it. She said that we were still doing EMDR because we are doing the first steps of history taking and resourcing and talked about how sometimes EMDR ends up very "front loaded" with the work and other times it's more back loaded and that its more than just the reprocessing work. Which I know and understand on a cognitive level, but can't get myself to feel it as OK in my body or in the moment when im spiraling feeling like I'm failing (EMDR, therapy, myself..) and weak and stupid.

We did also talk about the hopelessness being much more present than the maybe 5% of me that has hope things could be fundamentally different. ET frames it as state change versus trait change.

[serenityquest]

[backpackingspace]

My therapist: Okay don't freak out but you ....know if you want to know the long term physiological affects of being tortured you have to go to a doctor right?

Me: yes but consider I'm never going to do that so what's your best guest

My therapist: you mean besides the insane amount of trauma ?

[clownov]

i think.. i Thingk..... talking to 3 therapists in 2 days Might have been bad for me.........

[overwhelmed-frog]

fellow sapphics who had an intense homoerotic friendship in high school that ultimately imploded and ended in disaster, how we feeling since chappell roan released her new song?

[nature-played-a-trick-on-me]

Why is it so hard to get specialised mental health care in the netherlands whyyyyyyyyyyyyy

I'm an adult and I know what troubles me and I know which therapies I've tried and didn't help me and I know what therapies could help me and which I haven't tried yet and which are evidence based so I go to my gp and ask for therapy and I get a referral and I have an intake and I say this is my problem, these therapies I've tried which didn't work, I would like to try this therapy because xyz, and I get the same unsuccessful therapy after waiting for half a year!!! IF TALK THERAPY WAS HELPFUL FOR ME I WOULDVE BEEN CURED OF ALL MENTAL ILLNESS THRICE OVER!

[telechats1121]

EMDR

EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy treatment used to relieve the distress associated with traumatic memories and experiences. The client undergoes a series of standardized procedures in which the therapist applies bilateral stimulation the kind of stimulation used eye movements or tapping to assist the client in reprocessing distressing memories and creating adaptive coping strategies.

[telechts]

Intensive EMDR

Intensive EMDR therapy we specialized focused approach in the healing of trance and emotional recovery. In these rapid and concentrated therapy sessions appearing in the same week, the person can work through a lot of traumatic incidents and emotionally recover very quickly. Intensive sessions combine the principles of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to specifically target distressing memories, negative belief systems, and symptoms related to these core issues for deeper emotional healing and resolution. We take an approach to treatment that is tailored to the individual and moves quickly so that people have an efficient pathway to all the healing, empowerment, and emotional sustainability they need in their lives.

[ninjabelle]

wheres the feel all the pain at once, then never again quote I neeeeeed it

[keepingthehopealive]

Emdr intensive session #1.

I want to write about this. May end up making it private or even deleting it, but right now sharing feels ok and safer. This is basically what I wrote to my therapist PT (main therapist) after the session with ET (emdr therapist)

The freeze was immediate and extreme. I went in and immediately curled up quite a bit and didn't make eye contact or engage. There wasn't any judgement about me not making eye contact and ET did a lot to show and tell me how it was OK. I think it kind of helped that ET knew it going in so she addressed it immediately. It was an interesting balance of her not immediately trying to save me from it or push me out of it jumping into conversation or questions, but also not leaving me stuck in it. She gave me a couple fidgits to play with while we talked and talked through some small movements with varried success on my part. I spent most of the 3 hours in the freeze, but to varrying levels. ET told me right from the start that she has experienced tonic immobility and freeze before and that she does understand it. She also later said she has worked with multiple clients with dissociative presentations and freeze.

When we were talking about the dogs or work, I felt some moments of reprieve. I didn't really "lose" my voice till the last half hour but I was able to push through it. Towards the end, I also started getting really bad stomach pain and cramps. My body feels depleted and in pain today, which isn't a foreign experience for me, but feels quite extreme. I crashed hard after session yesterday and am glad I have the weekend off, since I don't think I'd be able to jump back into work after the session.

We talked a lot about the freeze and she tried different things to get me to move and work with it. I of course was a failure and couldn't do much of anything she suggested or asked of me, even the tiny things like closing my eyes or small movements. Its reinforcing the hopelessness and pointlessness of doing all this because I cant even fucking try. I know it wouldn't have been a reasonable expectation that I'd suddenly be able to do something different, it just feels so shameful, especially as I'm now spiraling over some of the things that I (should have, wish I could have, wanted to etc) try when ET suggested or asked me to try. Especially when she tried showing an EMDR technique to try (flash technique). I wanted to scream at myself that its the whole fucking point and how im a weak failure and wasting everyone's time if I cant even try.

We talked a lot about protective parts and defenses and identified some of the big ones for me which were the freeze, (skin) picking and then the "I cant". I felt like it did weave into a lot of history taking too, and we covered a lot, but it didnt feel too intake-ey.

ET did a lot of psychoeducation, a lot of stuff that felt familiar to me and I already knew (which she was validating about and respected and didn't talk down to me) but some from a different lens with parts work. Shame made those parts of the conversations really hard to engage with. It wasn't that they didn't feel relevant or land with me it was the thoughts about how it shouldnt land for me and I don't have trauma or deserve it. One of those exercises was thinking about the fearful part and how old it is/what it needs to loosen the grip on some of the defenses. That was where the "I cant" came in full force and I couldn't engage or even try. It was also very hard to engage at all with what was happening in my body.

I felt that ET was way too nice and validating. In the begining it felt more infantalizing and like fake niceness but I don't think it was. It was just her going slow and not pushing me, probably made worse by the fact that I walked in and immediately froze and all the defenses came up (so damage control on her part basically). It got a bit better as the session progressed, and I communicated it in the way I could. I actually used what you had said about how deliberate validation and reassurance doesn't work well for me but I do better with genuineness. Even before I said or communicated any of that, ET had already self disclosed that she's experienced the freeze and tonic immobility before. I ultimately felt she was genuine but still too nice. She kept saying "its fine", particularly when I was shame spiraling, and I pushed back. ET's response was that it was fine for her, even if it wasn't for me.

Other stuff:

ET does both EMDR and parts work so a lot of what we talked about was more parts work based. she mentioned doing a "map" but we only got as far as making a list of the protective parts coming up as there was a lot to talk about there. She also talked a lot about the polyvagal theory, window of tolerance and how I am alternating between hypo and hyperarousal but never in that window of tolerance. PT does ACT and said they've reframed it as "window of flexibility" where its the state where you feel and are able to make decisions.

Another thing ET said when I was talking about my mother is the term "emotional incest" which I've never heard but she explained and I looked up after is similar to enmeshment. The bit that I looked up is very relevant to my relationship with my mom.

My HW is a resourcing/anchoring activity of thinking of times, people, places etc where I have felt that sense of safety or neutrality in my body and in myself. Im going to write about it separately I think because PT and I have been working through it together, which has been helpful and interesting.

I see ET again in about a week and half so it'll be 3 weeks between the appointments. Im not sure what will be after that as that is what we booked so far. Its already been hard and intense, but i at least think I want to keep trying for the time being since it is a different approach and something new.

[familyreflectionsprogram]

Parental Alienation Support: Guidance to Rebuild Healthy Relationships

Parental alienation is a complex and emotionally charged issue that can deeply impact the relationship between parents and children. It occurs when one parent undermines the child’s relationship with the other parent, often leading to feelings of confusion, resentment, and detachment. Addressing parental alienation is vital for the well-being of everyone involved, particularly the children, who often bear the emotional brunt of the situation. With the right parental alienation support, families can work toward healing and rebuilding trust, paving the way for healthier relationships.

Understanding Parental Alienation

Parental alienation often arises in contentious divorce or custody battles. Children may feel caught in the middle, struggling to reconcile conflicting narratives from both parents. This can result in long-term emotional and psychological effects if left unaddressed. Understanding the signs of parental alienation—such as a child’s sudden hostility toward one parent or an unreasonable preference for the other—is the first step in tackling the issue. Seeking professional guidance and support is crucial for breaking this cycle and fostering reconciliation.

The Role of a Reunification Program for Families

A reunification program for families plays a pivotal role in addressing parental alienation. These programs are designed to rebuild trust and communication between estranged parents and children. By involving trained professionals, such programs provide a safe and neutral environment for dialogue. Families can explore their feelings, confront misconceptions, and develop strategies to improve their relationships. Tailored interventions and therapeutic techniques ensure that the program meets the unique needs of each family, facilitating long-term healing.

How Parent-Child Reconciliation Services Can Help

Rebuilding a strained parent-child bond requires patience, effort, and expert guidance. Parent-child reconciliation services offer structured support to navigate these challenges. These services help children feel heard and understood, fostering a sense of security and belonging. Parents, too, benefit from learning strategies to communicate effectively, show empathy, and rebuild trust. With the assistance of skilled counselors, families can embark on a journey of mutual understanding, creating a foundation for positive and lasting connections.

Addressing parental alienation is essential for the emotional health of all family members. With resources like parental alienation support, reunification programs, and parent-child reconciliation services, families can work toward healing and restoring their relationships. For more information on tailored programs that prioritize family well-being, visit Family Reflections Program.

[sowaniagermainlmhc]

EMDR Intensive Therapy Near Me | Sowaniagermainlmhc.com

Seeking EMDR intensive therapy in New York? Discover effective treatment options at Sowania Germain LMHC. Our experienced therapists offer specialized Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to help individuals overcome trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and more.

EMDR Intensive Therapy Near Me

[intensivetherapyretreatsbe]

The Unique EMDR Experience In the Tranquil Neighborhoods of Beacon, NY

Deciphering EMDR Intensive Therapy for Mental Well-being: Exploring its Intricacies and Benefits

Intensive Therapy Retreats, nestled in the tranquil neighborhoods of Beacon, NY, is proud to offer transformative EMDR intensive therapy retreats. These retreats provide individuals struggling with trauma-related issues with an immersive healing experience that goes beyond traditional therapy.

What Exactly is EMDR Intensive Therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a specialized form of therapy designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. It involves a structured approach to therapy that incorporates bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories and emotions in a safe and controlled manner. EMDR therapy is highly effective in treating trauma-related conditions, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

The Unique Experience of EMDR Intensive Therapy Retreats

At Intensive Therapy Retreats in Beacon, the EMDR intensive therapy experience is taken to the next level. Participants engage in multiple therapy sessions daily, allowing for deep and comprehensive healing. The retreat environment provides a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their trauma and work through difficult emotions with the guidance of experienced therapists.

The Power of Experienced Therapists

Experienced EMDR therapists wield a profound understanding of trauma and the intricate nuances of EMDR therapy. With their specialized training and empathetic approach, they guide clients through the complex process of trauma healing, fostering a safe and supportive environment for exploration and growth. Their expertise enables them to tailor one-on-one therapy sessions to each client's unique needs, ensuring effective resolution of past traumas and empowering clients to embrace a future free from the shackles of their past. Through their skillful guidance and compassionate presence, experienced EMDR therapists instill hope, resilience, and healing, leading clients toward profound transformation and a renewed sense of well-being. At EMDR intensive therapy retreats, experienced therapists provide a dedicated space for intensive healing, offering clients the opportunity to delve deeply into their trauma under the guidance of skilled professionals.

Transformative Results

The results of EMDR intensive therapy retreats can be truly transformative. Many participants report significant reductions in symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression, as well as improvements in overall quality of life. By providing a concentrated and immersive healing experience, these retreats allow individuals to make rapid progress in their healing journey.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Intensive Therapy Retreats, Beacon is committed to making their EMDR intensive therapy retreats accessible to all individuals, regardless of background. They offer payment plans with up to 36 months of financing, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to receiving the help they need.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Each participant at Intensive Therapy Retreats, Beacon, receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and goals. This individualized approach ensures that participants receive the support and guidance they need to address their trauma and move forward on their healing journey.

Continuing Support and Aftercare

The support doesn't end when the retreat is over. Intensive Therapy Retreats are pleased to offer online follow-up coaching to assist individuals in integrating the tools and changes acquired during the retreat and support their progress in the future. These arrangements can be made following the retreat. It is recommended that individuals have an ongoing therapist at home.

In short, EMDR intensive therapy retreats offer individuals struggling with trauma-related issues a comprehensive and immersive healing experience. By combining EMDR therapy with holistic wellness activities, a supportive environment, personalized treatment plans, and continuing support and aftercare, these retreats provide a unique opportunity for deep and transformative healing. Whether you are struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or other trauma-related conditions, retreats that offer EMDR intensive therapy may be just what you need to reclaim your life and move forward on your healing journey.

About Intensive Therapy Retreats, Beacon, NY

Experience solace, hope, and transformation at Intensive Therapy Retreats in Beacon, NY, tailored for individuals confronting depression and mental health obstacles. Highlighting immersive settings, individualized assistance, and integration of mind and body, these retreats provide a comprehensive approach to mental wellness. With a focus on empowering individuals to rediscover joy, resilience, and a promising future, reach out to them at (413) 331-7421 for a consultation with skilled therapists and explore their impactful mental health retreats, including those incorporating EMDR therapy.

[altruisticenigma]

Post-EMDR Rambles; none of this is coherent at all but this needs to go somewhere

Cold, frosty, foggy mornings waiting for the bus.

The way the landscape felt under my feet and legs when I walked- hills, dips, how uneven it was.

The feeling of peeling paint chips underneath my hands. The smell of the barn- how drastically the workshop smelled differently from the main room. The feeling of petting the cats. The image of the uneven concrete, and the bird bath among the fronds of the hot poker plants. The feeling of the rough concrete underneath my hands and legs from the "front porch," and how it felt like it was always damp, no matter what.

The rocks alongside the flower bed, and how I'd walk along them- if you were careful, you could walk from one side of the house to the other. My feet always found the natural path easily. That one rock on the side of the driveway. How much I would sit on it. The look and the feeling of the sap from the huge pines surrounding the house.

I thought a house was supposed to be haunted, not a house haunting me. I can't tell if I'm trapped there, or if it is a comfort beckoning me back home. I remember the feelings- the smells, the textures, the sights- as vividly as I had lived them. But unfortunately I remember the violence of you at the same time, and it makes no sense. It's a home; you were the worst thing to happen to me. Why are those two things getting so muddled in my mind like one big chaotic, violent fucked up flashback? Is there anything you didn't get your fucking hands on?

[sensitiveaangel]

reading through my emdr journals from a couple years ago is like 😮 i had ptsd for real and am actually living such a better life now…who knew!!

[nature-played-a-trick-on-me]

Therapy is so awkward. She wanted me to do emdr on this fear I have of a specific incident happening again and I had to make a mental image of that.... now I can speak up so I was like I think that's not a great idea and I think that'll make the fear worse and in my expectation emdr hasn't super helped.... other things did but emdr alone did not. Fortunately she agreed after but then we sort of randomly did emdr on a different memory ?? And then afterwards she was like okay I think we will take a different approach next week.