Iowa City Therapists: EMDR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)

What is EMDR?

The therapy was initially designed to help people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly those who had experienced severe trauma such as sexual harm, child abuse, or a violent attack. However, it has since been found to be effective for a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and panic disorders.

The Addition of S.A.F.E

SAFE EMDR is an adaptation of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). SAFE EMDR incorporates a somatic (body-based) and attachment-focused approach into the EMDR framework. The somatic aspect refers to the recognition that trauma and other emotional experiences are stored not only in the mind but also in the body.

The attachment-focused aspect recognizes the impact of early attachment experiences on an individual's development and functioning.