Does Trauma Respond to EMDR Therapy?

Does EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) therapy work for trauma? It has been all the rage recently, but what is it? Does it have any studies or scientific basis — or is it just the latest internet fad? The basis of the therapy is reliving a traumatic memory while receiving bilateral stimulation, such as a therapist waving their hand in front of your face. It may sound out of the ordinary, but it actually has robust data showing its effectiveness. Join us as Timothy Meyer of the Lukin Center for Psychotherapy explains this puzzling therapy for PTSD and other traumas. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the show's official episode page. Guest Bio Timothy Meyer, LCSW, is a psychotherapist specializing in working with trauma, anxiety, and depression, focusing primarily on working with adults, teens, and families. He also serves as the Assistant Clinical Director at Lukin Center in northern New Jersey. Timothy has completed extensive training in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and is EMDRIA certified: the highest level of certification for an EMDR practitioner. Timothy is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level II (CCTP-II), which allows him to treat complex trauma clients effectively. He also has advanced training in hypnotherapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and structural family therapy. He has extensive experience working with children, adults, and families with a broad range of difficulties. Using evidence-based practices and theories, Timothy’s goal-oriented approach to therapy addresses each of his clients’ particular concerns. He and his clients collaborate to craft personalized treatment plans that address their individual needs. His objective is to get them feeling well and to help them become the best possible version of themselves. Timothy earned his master’s degree (MSW) from Columbia University and his BA in psychology from Montclair State University. Working through the Lukin Center for Psychotherapy, one of the largest private practices in the area, Timothy also supervises and trains other clinicians in the field along with providing evidenced-based psychotherapy to his clients. Inside Mental Health Podcast Host Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. Gabe makes his home in the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. He lives with his supportive wife, Kendall, and a Miniature Schnauzer dog that he never wanted, but now can’t imagine life without. To book Gabe for your next event or learn more about him, please visit gabehoward.com.