For many clients, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is the best technique for navigating trauma. This approach is helpful for clients who have experienced emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, violence, natural disasters, or loss. However, for more complex situations involving early childhood wounds and relational trauma, taking an attachment-focused approach can be incredibly beneficial. Teresa Zuvela at Woodland Pathways Counseling offers attachment-focused EMDR therapy in Tacoma, Washington, to provide compassionate support for clients on this journey.
What Is EMDR?
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an evidence-based treatment designed to help clients with PTSD process trauma (such as assault, combat, a car accident, or grief). EMDR works by using bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, tapping, or sounds, that mimic the brain activity of REM sleep.
This rhythmic left-right stimulation helps the brain reprocess distressing memories, allowing them to be stored in a more adaptive way. As a result, it reduces the emotional intensity of traumatic memories, and healing becomes possible.
How Attachment-Focused EMDR Therapy Works
Attachment-focused EMDR therapy (AF-EMDR) is for individuals with more complex traumatic experiences. Frequently, these situations occur in childhood or long-term relationships, with traumatic events often involving abuse, prolonged emotional neglect, early loss or separation, or growing up in a shaming or critical environment.
In addition to mending early attachment wounds and treating trauma, AF-EMDR can also address ongoing concerns, including:
- Chronic pain
- Betrayal
- Grief and loss
- Aging challenges
- Relational trauma
Both EMDR and AF-EMDR are incredibly helpful for healing, allowing you to rework feelings and narratives associated with your trauma without the need to verbalize your experiences. Some talk therapy can be included, but other supportive techniques lead the way.
Healing Is Possible With the Right Support
You don’t need to walk this path alone. Teresa Zuvela, a certified EMDR and attachment-focused EMDR therapist at Woodland Pathways Counseling, can guide you with care and empathy. Take the first step by reaching out for attachment-focused EMDR therapy in Tacoma, WA. You can also opt for telehealth services to access care where you feel most comfortable.