To understand how EMDR therapy works for complex trauma, we must first grasp its underlying theory: the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model. This model posits that the brain naturally processes information and moves towards mental health. When a traumatic event occurs, particularly repeated ones, this natural processing system can get overwhelmed, and the memories become “stuck” or maladaptively stored.

Vulnerable emotional expression in relationship is paramount to the success of a relationship. How a couple communicates is the mark of a successful relationship. Boiled down, the three primary emotions that couples should use as a benchmark to communicate their feelings in an accessible, relatable way are sad, hurt, and afraid.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a highly structured approach to treating trauma and other distressing life experiences. It works by helping the brain process “stuck” memories in a way similar to how the brain processes information during REM sleep. The therapy follows eight distinct phases, guiding the client through a systematic process of healing.

Most people would assume it’s communication – or lack thereof, but actually, researchers John and Julie Gottman found that contempt was the most destructive force in a marriage. They found that this trait in marriages was the most toxic and the biggest predictor of impending divorce.

Sometimes a fight with your partner can feel like the end of the world. You may find yourself wondering, “why does my reaction feel outsized?” or “why am I so triggered to shut down?” These are questions that can be addressed in couples therapy, but that may also warrant some EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy intervention.

If you’re considering diving into Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), it’s natural to wonder what lies ahead. So what can you expect? This guide will unpack the unique aspects of EMDR, explaining the whys and hows, so you know what awaits you on your journey to healing.

Most of us weren’t handed a manual on healthy communication as kids. Instead, we absorbed our communication habits from our family of origin—our first teachers. These early interactions often shape how we express and receive love, frustration, and everything in between. With effort, you can untangle miscommunications and stitch together a more meaningful dialogue with your partner.

You’ve been meeting with your Internal Family Systems Therapist for a few months now, and all the parts work has been so beneficial. Until one day, you just lose it with your spouse and your next therapy session isn’t for another week. SO what do you do? Your parts are activated, your spouse is mad and you’re lost in the weeds. Here are some ways Internal Family Systems therapy can help couples who are fighting.

The honeymoon phase of a relationship lasts between 18-24 months. Then, so often, after 2 years together they start to feel the romance fade, the spark disappear and the connection fray. But there are some practical things couples can do to keep their connection strong and find meaning in the daily grind.

EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful form of psychotherapy that helps heal emotional turmoil caused by traumatic experiences. This post will explore how it works, how it’s executed, and it’s benefits.

Fighting couples may be endearing in rom-coms, but in reality, conflicts can cause stress and heartache. Yet, disagreements are inevitable and can even be beneficial. It’s all about how you handle them. So, how often is “normal” to argue in a healthy relationship? The truth is, it varies.

Trauma affects the nervous system by triggering the body’s stress response leading to states of hyperarousal and physical/emotional dysregulation. This leads to us feeling completely flooded or overwhelmed and not being able to think logically. Parasympathetic breathing can help re-regulate your body, bring your logical thinking back online, and help you feel more in control.

It’s an unfortunate reality that many of us didn’t get the parenting we desired when we were little. It’s not that our parents were bad or didn’t care - likely they did the best they could with the tools they had. This is where Internal Family Systems Therapy can be a valuable tool for reparenting. The process whereby we learn to parent various parts of ourselves and help integrate and live in true self.

When anger flares up, sometimes communication can feel impossible. Learning to express your feelings constructively when angry is essential for everyone, especially couples and couples therapy can really help to nurture this skill. Mastering this skill can transform potentially damaging arguments into productive discussions that strengthen your relationship.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing or EMDR therapy is a powerful treatment for trauma and PTSD, helping individuals process and integrate traumatic memories. While EMDR can provide significant relief, being aware of potential side effects is essential.

Conflict is inevitable in relationships, but resolution is crucial for maintaining a healthy bond. The key lies in finding resolutions that don’t leave lingering hurt or resentment. By accepting that differences will arise, couples can focus on constructive problem-solving and effective communication to strengthen their relationship through these strategies.

When we encounter someone who is suffering, our inclination can often times be to meet with with encouragement or positive thinking. The problem is, this often times makes things worse for the person on the receiving end. Here’s a helpful two step process that can help in aiding you to connect with someone experiencing trauma.

Our deepest needs and longings from childhood are not romantic ones, but ones that foster a deep and abiding connection. We need it to flourish and thrive. If this connection isn’t nurtured, it can affect our relationships as we get older.

You might be surprised to learn that Internal Family Systems changes happen differently than expected. IFS therapy doesn’t aim to manage parts away. Instead, it brings all parts, even the troublesome ones, into connection with your core Self.

EMDR Therapy offers a unique approach. This innovative psychotherapy combines elements from various treatments to relieve psychological trauma. It’s proven effective for people of all ages worldwide, tackling PTSD, anxiety, and panic disorders.