Somatic Attachment Focused Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing or S.A.F.E. EMDR for short is recognized as the best practice for the treatment of PTSD. Many sources such as the Office of Veterans Affairs and Defense, the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, and The World Health Organization all recommend this treatment approach. S.A.F.E. EMDR incorporates mindfulness and somatic processing in a safe environment to heal and integrate negative memories and traumas in a way that they no longer cause negative reactions. As an EMDR therapist, Jessie Napoli uses bilateral stimulation while her clients process their memories in their own way. Bilateral stimulation has been shown through research to integrate negative memories by stimulating parts of the brain that are responsible for rational thinking. Negative memories are processed mostly on the emotional-reactive side which can cause problematic behaviors and thoughts.

 

This technique is useful for verbal children, teens, and adults who have experienced trauma or negative memories that are hard to let go of and cause distress. The bilateral stimulation helps to integrate memories into your whole brain thus, reducing negative behaviors. This creates a space for healing and a more peaceful way for clients to understand their trauma and problematic memories.

Our other clinicians are also trained in trauma and use a trauma-informed lens. Desiny Yates also specialized in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.