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real patients
EMDR Therapist in Bismarck, ND
Dr David Brooks uses EMDR Therapy to help people heal from deep traumas, conquer addictions and overcome fears.
What is EMDR therapy?
Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy was created by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the late 1980's.
It has been found to be a very effective method for counteracting Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). EMDR therapy is also often effective in helping individuals suffering with specific fears.
In addition, EMDR protocols have been developed and used often with good outcomes to reduce cravings and some other disorders.
How does Dr. Brooks prepare patients for EMDR therapy?
You will be asked to complete background history prior to your first appointment with Dr. Brooks. This will include details such as personal and family history medical and psychological history, your current medications, insurance details, etc.
The first meeting with Dr. Brooks will consist of introduction and discussion of your objectives and experience with therapy and expectations. A formal clinical interview will be completed. Dr. Brooks will then assist you to obtain adequate readiness and comfort before moving ahead with treatment.
Can Dr. Brooks administer EMDR therapy remotely?
Amazingly, there is now another way to experience EMDR therapy without having to be treated in the office.
Dr. Brooks has purchased remotEMDR and is able to use a virtual EMDR lightbar experience over Google Chrome connecting to your home computer or possibly another device.
This lightbar also has sound capability and Dr. Brooks can select desired color of stimulus followed and control speed of eye movement.
How does Dr. Brooks administer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy?
In his practice, Dr. Brooks uses a wall-mounted, state-of-the-art light bar during EMDR therapy. Patients visualize their earliest distressing memory while tracking the moving lights with their eyes. During this process, individuals might retain the initial memory, shift between various memories, or occasionally experience a brief blank mind. The goal is not to hold onto any particular image but to engage with the eye movements themselves, typically resulting in relaxation and reduced distress. Some patients initially report feeling tired, either from unfamiliar relaxation or chronic sleep issues related to trauma.
Dr. Brooks measures specific indicators to determine when an upsetting memory has been sufficiently processed, allowing the patient to adopt more positive thoughts about the experience. Remarkably, even events initially perceived as overwhelming can become significantly less troubling within just one or two sessions. The lasting relief achieved through EMDR therapy can usually withstand future stressors, though additional treatment is possible if needed. Dr. Brooks' therapy setup includes optional auditory stimulation through headphones and tactile feedback via handheld devices synchronized with the light bar, enhancing the treatment's overall effectiveness. Additionally, he customizes therapy by adjusting the light color and movement speed, factors crucial to successful outcomes.
Dr. Brooks’ preferences and style
Dr. Brooks values humor in good taste and usually practices casually in blue jeans. He is hopeful that your experience with him will be rather enjoyable and that he will provide you significant relief from upsetting memories, fears and be able to assist you in reducing unwanted cravings, if any.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration of treatment by Dr. David Brooks at Dakota Trauma Therapy.
Don't struggle alone. Reach out today.
Dr. Brooks is standing by, ready to help.
