Trauma and EMDR

Almost everyone will experience one or more traumatic events over the course of life – it is part of living in a fallen world. It could be a near-death experience from combat, a natural disaster, car wreck, or interpersonal violence. Or it could be other forms of trauma like sexual assault, personal betrayal, or death of a close loved one. Traumatic events are often etched into the brain in fragmented, dysfunctional ways that are connected with strong negative emotions and beliefs about oneself and the world. The brain can remain on high alert for similar dangers, and certain sights, sounds, smells, emotions, people, or situations can remind us of the trauma and we are suddenly “triggered” and feel overwhelmed with strong emotions, physical reactions, and an urge to fight back or just get away. Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based, highly effective treatment for traumatic memories, regardless of the source. As an EMDR Certified clinician and EMDRIA Approved Consultant, Dr. Suzanne Mikkelson works with several members of the HCCC team who offer EMDR for adults and children. If you have been diagnosed with PTSD, or you have experienced trauma in life and are not sure if you have PTSD, EMDR may be a life-changing treatment option for you. There really is hope and life beyond trauma.

EMDR Intensives: Dr.Suzanne Mikkelson also offers EMDR in an intensive, individual format for clients who are referred by their current clinician. These intensives are usually 2 or 3 days long, include 6-12 hours of therapy in addition to a pre-intensive interview. EMDR intensives are scheduled on a case-by-case basis at a time that is convenient for the client. These intensives are often a good choice for clients who want to work through a specific distressing situation or event in a cost-effective, time-efficient format.